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Big Bend National ParkPets can only go where cars go and they must be kept on a 6-foot or shorter leash.
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Big Bend National Park
Pets

Be aware that having a pet with you will limit your activities and explorations in the park. In addition, desert temperatures and predators are a serious threat to your pet's well being. Please consider the following points before deciding to bring a pet:

  • Pets are not allowed on trails, off roads, or on the river. Basically, your pet can only go where your car can go.
  • If you plan to hike, someone must stay behind with the pet, or you will need to make arrangements with a kennel service.
  • Pet owners are required to immediately remove and properly dispose of fecal matter deposited by their pets. Deposit bag of fecal matter in a dumpster.
  • Pets need to be on a leash no longer than six feet in length (or in a cage) at all times.
  • You are not allowed to leave your pet unattended in vehicles if it creates a danger to the animal, or if the animal becomes a public nuisance. There is no kennel service in the park.
  • Pet etiquette and park regulations require that you always clean up after your pet and dispose of waste in trash receptacles.
  • Predators such as owls, coyotes, mountain lions and even javelina can and do kill pets here. Even large dogs cannot defend themselves against predators. Extreme temperatures are also a danger.

Your pet will be much happier at home! 

CHANGE  

Did You Know?
Elevation is everything at Big Bend National Park. Air temperature changes by five degrees for every 1,000 feet of elevation you gain or lose; temperatures in the high Chisos Mountains can be 30 degrees cooler than temperatures along the Rio Grande.
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Last Updated: July 25, 2006 at 00:23 EST