Home Visit Before You Visit Four-Legged Visitors

four-legged visitors

We love dogs! And we love that they encourage us to get outdoors. That’s why we allow dogs at most of our nature preserves. But we have a few simple rules in place to keep other visitors (both two-legged and four-legged) and wildlife safe and happy.

A dog on a green leash sitting on a dirt trail through the woods.

leashes required

Pets are permitted at most of our nature preserves but must be leashed at all times to keep people, other pets, and wildlife safe. No exceptions! Violators may be asked to leave the preserve.

Please note that dogs and other pets are prohibited at Stoneleigh: a natural garden. (Licensed service animals are welcome as required by law.)

Here are some important reasons to leash your dog:

Fido’s safety
Ticks are abundant in meadows and woods throughout the region. If your dog wanders off the trail, he could be exposed to Lyme disease. No matter how well-behaved your pet, excitement can get the better of him.
other visitors
Even though she’s wonderful, other visitors may not want to get to know your dog. The preserve is here for everyone to enjoy. Some visitors may not feel welcome if they are concerned about being approached by an off-leash dog.
wildlife
Though it may seem harmless to let your dog run free and play in the woods, fields, and wetlands, try looking at it from a Bluebird’s point of view. An unleashed dog can disturb feeding, mating, nesting, and rearing young—not just for Bluebirds but for many other wildlife species as well.

pick up poop

Not only does dog poop smell and look unsightly along the trail, it is a health hazard. It also increases the nitrogen in the soil making it harder for native plants to survive. Please pack a pick-up bag, clean up after your dog, and take the bagged waste with you.

nature's best friend

Add $20 to any level of membership and you and your canine friends can proudly walk the trails with a Green Dog leash and the knowledge that you are protecting wildlife and ensuring the safety and comfort of all preserve users.

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