Park Ranger Pat Pilcher gives us great information on the do’s and don’ts for dogs while in the Joshua Tree National Park…
Man’s best friend is often your best friend, but he is certainly not the best friend of wildlife in the Joshua Tree National Park. Your furry companion is a predator, and though he may behave at home or on a leash, his natural hunting instincts will be elevated in the wilderness. Dogs put pressure on prey species by behaving aggressively and marking territory. This pressure causes prey animals to expend precious energy that may mean the difference between life and death. But we recognize that visitors have pets and they are certainly welcome in the Park if they follow a few simple rules. Dogs must be on a leash no longer than six feet at all times, and may not be left unattended. They must be within 100 feet of a campground, roadside or picnic area and they are not allowed on any park trails. For more information on pets in the park call 760 367-5500.