Pets

Visitors walking their dogs in the park

NPS

Pet Regulations

• Pets must be on a leash no longer than six feet at all times.
• Pets are not permitted in any park buildings.
• Water is available at the water fountain near the main visitor parking lot (there's a ground-level water dish perfect for four-legged friends) and in the water dish outside the visitor center.
• Do not leave pets unattended in vehicles or tied up in the park.
• Looking for places to explore with your pet? Try one of our hiking trails!

Become a B.A.R.K. Ranger

Stop by the visitor center to participate in the B.A.R.K. Ranger program. Learn about the principles of B.A.R.K., take the pledge, and receive an official Appomattox Court House BARK ranger bandana!

The Rules of B.A.R.K.

Official B.A.R.K. Rangers help to protect the park's resources, visitors, and other pets by following the rules of B.A.R.K.:

Bag your pet's poop

• Always carry waste bags.
• Properly dispose of your pet’s waste in trash cans.
• Pet poop carries diseases that can be trasmitted to the park’s wildlife and spread non-native plant seeds

Always keep your pet on a leash

• Pets must be restrained on a leash no longer than 6 feet in length.
• Leashes protect your dog, other people, and park resources.
• Off-leash pets can stress other visitors and wildlife.

Respect wildlife

• Keep a respectful distance from any wild animal and protect your pets from wildlife bites. Maintaining restraint of a leashed pet makes this possible.
• Dog’s predatory instinct and scent can disrupt wildlife behaviors. A chase can lead to the death of a wild animal.
• Respect other visitors and their pets.

Know where you can go

• Leashed pets are allowed in the village and on park trails.
• Pets, even in carriers or in your arms are not allowed in park buildings.
• Ensure pets are attended at all times