Taking a trained dog into Georgia State Parks
A protection dog should be able to walk calmly past strangers and other dogs. State parks are a fair test, provided you follow the park system's own rules.
The rules, as the park system states them
| Topic | What the park system says | Source |
|---|---|---|
| Leash | Leashed dogs only, six feet at most | Park rules |
| Buildings | No pets in park and historic site buildings, lodges, yurts or group camps | Park rules |
| Water | No pets in swimming areas or beaches | Park rules |
| Unattended | A dog may not be left alone in a cottage, a vehicle or the park | Park rules |
| Cleanup | Owners should always pick up after their dogs | Dog walking |
Two places with trail limits
Dogs are welcome on park trails except certain hikes at two parks. Tallulah Gorge does not allow pets on the Gorge Floor Trail, and Panola Mountain does not allow them on the ranger-led Mountain Top hikes (Tails on Trails).
If the dog is going to be part of your routine, check the specific park page on the day you go, because trail rules can change.
A club that gives you a reason to go
The park system's Tails on Trails Club asks hikers to complete 12 of 42 participating parks with their dog. The list includes Fort Yargo, Red Top Mountain, Sweetwater Creek, Cloudland Canyon, Skidaway Island, Unicoi and Okefenokee.
One park, Laura S. Walker, has a fenced dog park.
What this means for your dog
A dog that pulls, lunges or fixates on strangers will be a poor fit for crowded trailheads. When you meet a prospective dog, ask to see it walked on a loose leash around unfamiliar people.
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