Pets

NPS Photo

Valley Forge is a great place to recreate with furry friends, but there are a few things you should do in order to keep your pet, yourself, other visitors, and the park clean and protected.

• Pets must be on leash at all times or otherwise under your physical control (i.e. within a vehicle or crated).

• You must clean up after your pet and dispose of waste in provided trash bins. Do not leave pet waste bags on or next to the trail.

Dogs are not permitted in the Grand Parade Trails from April 1 through September 15 in order to protect nesting wildlife.

See the full Valley Forge pet regulations in the Superintendent's Compendium.

 

 

Hot Weather Endangers Dogs!

No dog owner would knowingly endanger their pet, but sometimes we don’t recognize all the dangers. With the onset of high heat, some dogs can needlessly suffer. Here's what you need to know about visiting the park when the weather turns hot:

High temperatures and lack of hydration can quickly harm or even kill your dog.

• Never leave an animal in a closed car in the summer, even for a few minutes.

• When walking or running with your dog in the summer, always make sure you carry water and a container it can use, and offer it to the pet frequently.

• If your dog wants to slow down or stop, it may be overheated—stop and give it a break!

A condition called Exercise Induced Collapse (EIC) affects Labrador Retrievers and some other breeds, and can be worsened by the effects of hot weather.

• Dogs may begin exercising as normal, but when highly excited or subjected to strenuous exercise and/or heat, they will begin to show signs of disorientation and weakness, and may collapse.

• Owners can avoid EIC by reducing exercise routines or lowering the level of difficulty.

• Keep the dog hydrated, allow breaks, and use common sense on hot days.