Pets

The national monument might not be the best place to bring a dog or cat.

Pets are wonderful animals that give comfort and companionship. However, they may chase, scare, or transmit diseases to wild animals. Many pets leave behind a "predator" scent that can linger in the area for long periods of time and can disrupt or alter the behavior of the native animals the park protects.

 

Visitor holds the collar and leash of his pet when they encounter a deer on the trail.

NPS

If you choose to bring a pet to the park, please observe the following regulations:

Leashed or carried pets are permitted:

• In the Campground
• Paved parking lots
• Lower trails between the Campground and Entrance (Bonita Creek, Silver Spur Meadow, Faraway Ranch area)

Pets (including carried pets) are not permitted:

• In park buildings
• On trails above 5,500 feet (including Massai Point Nature, Echo Canyon, Heart of the Rocks, Natural Bridge, and Sugarloaf Trails). These regulations also apply to pets that are carried.

Pets must be on a leash at all times

• The leash must be no longer than 6 feet.

Pets may not be tied to a a tree or object.

• Though pets may be left in vehicles while their owners hike, be aware that temperatures rise quickly.
• Consider leaving a note with the time for others visitors who may be concerned.

Pet owners are required to pick-up after their pets (excrement and other solid waste).

Pet owners violating regulations may be cited and fined.

36-CFR 2.15 provides more details concerning pets within National Park Service areas.

 

Pets on leashes are allowed on the lower canyon trails

NPS Photo / A. Huston

Follow the BARK guidelines when visiting the park with your dog:

• Bag Your Pet's Poop

• Always Use a Leash

• Respect Wildlife

• Know Where You Can Go

Why are activities with pets in the park limited?

Chiricahua National Monument protects wildlife and animal habitats. Pets can create conditions that may disturb these protected resources.

• The territorial scents dogs leave behind disrupt the behavior of native animals that this park has been set aside to protect.
• Dogs are predators that could chase, scare, kill, and transmit diseases (distemper, parvo virus, and mange) to wild animals.
• Wild animals can transmit diseases, like rabies, to pets (and then to humans).
• Where pets are allowed, leashes also protect the experience of other visitors who may be afraid, allergic, or who do not want a pet to approach them.

Are there areas outside of the park where I may take my pet?

Leashed pets are allowed on trails in the surrounding Coronado National Forest. Leashed pets are also allowed at neighboring Fort Bowie National Historic Site.

Find additional tips on how to have a safe camping and hiking experience with your pet.

Are the rules the same for horse or mule?

No, horse and stock animals are treated differently from other pets.

 

Definition of Service Animal

The Americans with Disabilities Act (ADA) defines a "service animal" as a dog that has been rigorously trained to do work or perform tasks for the benefit of an individual with a disability.

Trained service animals may be allowed in buildings and on trails. Emotional support animals and animals in training must follow the rules for pets.

Falsely portraying a pet as a service animal is considered fraud and is subject to federal prosecution.