The desert environment can be deadly, especially from May through September, when temperatures in the park often soar above 100 degrees. Visitors are cautioned to avoid physical activity in the heat of the day. Staying well hydrated helps the body cool itself through sweating, and salty snacks replenish lost electrolytes. And be sure to take extra water if you’re hiking with your dog. A dog died last week who was hiking with two men in the Cottonwood area of Joshua Tree National Park. Managing editor Tami Roleff explains the rules concerning pets in the national park…
Pets are permitted in Joshua Tree National Park, but they may never be taken more than 100 feet from a road, picnic area, or campground. Pets must be leashed at all times when outside a vehicle and may never be left unattended. Pets are never allowed anywhere in the backcountry, including on hiking trails; the only exception is the paved trail at the Oasis of Mara in Twentynine Palms. Service animals, defined as dogs that are individually trained to do work or perform tasks for people with disabilities, are allowed anywhere in the park. Dogs whose sole function is to provide comfort or emotional support do not qualify as service animals under the Americans with Disabilities Act. More information about planning a Joshua Tree visit with pets is available on the park website at a link in this story at z1077fm.com.
https://www.nps.gov/jotr/planyourvisit/pets.htm.
Reporting for Z107.7, this is managing editor Tami Roleff.
RULES FOR PETS IN JOSHUA TREE NATIONAL PARK
