Pets in the Forest

Dogs are welcome in most areas throughout our National Forests, but there are some simple guidelines we ask dog owners to follow to ensure the safety and enjoyment of all who use these great public resources, including their furry friends.

Know Before You Go

Check with local Forest Service offices to find out which areas pets must be on-leash or are not allowed. On the Humboldt-Toiyabe National Forest, that information is also available at Alerts & Notices/Closures & Regulations.

Remember, pets need to be on-leashed in developed recreation sites, including campgrounds, picnic areas, and trailheads according to the Code of Federal Regulations 36 CFR 261.16j). Along the trail, there may also be additional signs instructing pet owners to keep pets on-leash. These restrictions are meant to protect wildlife, natural resources, and other visitors’ experiences.

Pack Out Your Pet’s Poo

Be sure to always pick up pet waste! The simple act of picking up your dog’s waste can make a positive impact in the appearance and health of our water quality and natural environment. It also protects the wildlife in the area. In addition, cleaning up after your dog will enable other visitors to have an equally awesome experience.

The default practice is to pick up your pet’s waste and pack it out. It is true that carrying poop bags in your backpack can get smelly but it does not have to be that way. Placing the poop bag inside of a smell-proof Ziplock bag will take care of that. If you are hiking for multiple days and cannot pack the waste out, bury it in a cathole dug 6 to 8 inches deep, at least 200 feet from water, camp site, and trails. Be sure to cover and disguise the cathole when finished.

Respect Wildlife

As tempting as it may be for your pet, and as “cute” as it may seem to watch, don’t let your dog chase or harass wildlife. Your pet may kill or injure wildlife, or cause some wild animals to feel threatened and become agitated or aggressive toward them. Also, do not let your dog bark at wildlife either.

Store Pet Food Properly

Remember to bring along enough food and water for your furry friend. Also, be sure to store your dog’s supplies as you would your own. Pet food left out may attract unwanted visitors such as bears.

Do not leave your pet's food dishes out. Stick to their regular feeding schedule as much as you can, but when they're done eating, clean their bowls with warm water and soap and put them away. Also, clean the area around your pet's food dishes after you put the bowls away. Most animals will usually leave some bits of kibble around their dish after they're done eating.

Manage Your Pet

Be courteous to other visitors by keeping your dog in control, which will protect your pet; other visitors and their pets; and local wildlife. If you are staying in a campground, be sure to secure your pet and never leave them alone. If you are on a trail be sure your dog follows voice commands or is leashed, is not allowed to bark at, lunge, run up, or sniff other dogs and hikers, or create “noise pollution by barking excessively. Following these trail etiquette tips will allow you to enjoy a day on the trail with your pet without impacting other’s enjoyment of the outdoors.