NPS Become a B.A.R.K. Ranger!National parks are great places to explore with your pet, and Weir Farm is no exception! Through the B.A.R.K. Ranger program, we want to recognize and thank dog owners and their furry friends for visiting responsibly. Here are the three steps to take to qualify as a B.A.R.K. Ranger:
Step 1: Learn and practice the B.A.R.K. Ranger Code:B: Bag your poop. Practice the principle of Leave No Trace! There are dog waste stations in the visitor parking lot, near the head of the Pond Trail, and by the Burlingham Barn. Dog feces are not natural fertilizer and can harm the wildlife and environment in the park if left behind. A: Always stay on a leash. Pets are required to always be on a 6 foot or shorter leash. Some people may be allergic to or afraid of dogs, some dogs may not be friendly to every dog they meet, and there may be wildlife on the trail that pets should avoid. Keeping your pet on a leash ensures the trails and grounds are welcoming and safe for all visitors. R: Respect wildlife. While squirrels, foxes, and other furry friends may not be B.A.R.K. Rangers, they are a natural part of Weir Farm and need to be respected. By following all aspects of the B.A.R.K. code, responsible dog owners can help ensure wildlife is left to their wilderness. K: Know where you can go. Though the Weir family lived with their dogs in the Weir House, modern pup visitors may not enter any building on site. This helps protect the Park’s cultural and historical resources. The exception to this rule is service animals.
Step 2: Complete One or More B.A.R.K. Ranger Activities- Channel your inner Julian Alden Weir and paint a portrait of your pet, utilizing our Take Part in Art kits. - Hike the Pond Trail and visit Weir Pond. - Visit all of the historic gardens on site.
Step 3: Find a Park Ranger and Complete Your Swearing In CeremonyReturn to the Visitor Center to complete your B.A.R.K. Ranger activities. A Park Ranger will lead you and your pup in the swearing in ceremony and present a B.A.R.K. Ranger certificate as a sign of appreciation for following the B.A.R.K. Ranger code and visiting responsibly. 
NPS Join Us for “Pet Portrait in the Park” Days!When: 9AM-12PM, August 24, September 13, and October 11, 2025Kick off the new B.A.R.K. Ranger program and paint a portrait of your pet at Weir Farm! All art supplies will be provided, and art instructors will be on hand to provide tips. When you’ve finished your painting, your dog can be sworn in as a B.A.R.K. Ranger and earn a certificate and dog tag. Pop in anytime between 9:00 am and 12:00 pm, no registration required. The B.A.R.K. Ranger program is made possible through the generous support of the Friends of Weir Farm. B.A.R.K. Ranger Program GalleryB.A.R.K. Ranger Program Gallery |
Last updated: July 18, 2025