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Social media has encouraged more and more people to go hiking and camping with their dogs.
That’s also what I’m trying to do on this blog: inspire newbies to get out there and inspire those who already do to explore more.
I am however conflicted because I know that every foot and every paw in nature has an impact and that is not good.
Even if everyone were as eco-friendly as they could be – and I assure you they are not – all of these small impacts add up to some really big ones.
With that in mind, I’m glad to see that official educational dog walking programs are beginning to emerge.
Specifically, I’m talking about the BARK Ranger program.
What is a BARK Ranger?
The BARK Ranger program is designed for dog owners who love the outdoors and their puppies.
The BARK Ranger program was originally launched in 2015 at Olympic National Park in Washington State.
It was so well received that soon after the program became official in 2016 and began to expand to include National Parks and National Historic Sites across the country.
Participating parks may have a class or program that you can sign up to take.
Each location has different requirements to obtain the title of BARK Ranger.
The requirements to earn the BARK Ranger title differ from location to location based on the unique needs of that region.
The name BARK Ranger is cute because it sounds like “Park” Ranger, but it also has a meaning.
What does BARK Ranger stand for?
BARK represents a set of etiquette guidelines to follow if you want to be a responsible dog owner while enjoying nature.
B – Bag your dog’s droppings
While this may sound like common sense to many responsible dog owners, it’s not always the case.
In fact, many dog owners still believe that because your dog’s waste is “natural”, it can degrade in the environment like waste left by local wildlife.
Unfortunately, there is more than that. Not all poops are the same when it comes to their impact on the ecosystem.
Studies show that the high levels of nitrogen and phosphorus in your dog’s poop can do a lot of harm if not picked up.
That’s why it’s so important to follow Leave No Trace rules and pick up all trash, taking it with you for proper disposal.
A – Always wear a leash (6ft max, and “don’t let your human leave you unattended”)
There are several reasons why leashes are necessary on many trails and in national parks.
This includes:
- Keeping your dog safe in dangerous terrain
- Risks associated with reactive dogs
- Space for dogs in training
- Respect for other hikers including those who are afraid of dogs
- Protect the natural environment
A – Respect wildlife (do not harass or harm wildlife by making noise or chasing it)
Your favorite national park is home to a wide assortment of different wildlife.
You and your dog should respect each national park habitat you visit.
We are only visitors and must respect their habitat.
This means teaching your dog to avoid barking or chasing wildlife, as well as preventing your dog from unnecessarily disturbing its habitat with bad habits like digging.
K – Know where you can go (parking lots, campgrounds, picnic areas, designated roads and trails)
Before visiting your local national parks or historic sites, take the time to research areas that allow dogs. This will be different from park to park.
In some national parks, dogs can join you on all trails and campsites for the full experience. But there are parks with restricted areas.
After identifying where your dog is allowed to go, follow these rules.
There are many ways to enjoy national parks with your dog while respecting pet rules.
What are the benefits of becoming a BARK Ranger?
Education
Whether you’re a new hiker just taking your dog out for the first time or an experienced hiker in need of a quick refresher, this program gives you the chance to learn important information about respecting nature while going from time outdoors.
It is likely that you will learn something new when you take the course.
Even if you think you’re an expert, there’s probably something new you can take away from the course.
BARK Ranger tag and BARK Ranger bandana
One of the fun reasons to participate is the BARK Ranger beacon.
Many national parks offering the program now have their own personalized tags with the park’s name on them.
This allows outdoor enthusiasts to move from park to park, collecting the various beacons available.
You can collect them all for bragging rights!
There is also a national park”Bark Ranger Bandana” available for purchase online or at your local parks.
It includes a hiking checklist as well as survival information such as what to do if you get lost and how to identify a dangerous trail.
Although the bandana shares the name of the BARK Ranger program, it does not appear to be directly affiliated.
The opportunity to make a difference
The impact it can have on our environment is one of the main reasons to support the BARK Ranger program.
If you love spending time outdoors, you’re probably also someone who believes in the importance of protecting natural areas so they continue to be there for generations to come.
The more effort one puts into sharing this information with other dog owners, the greater its impact will be.
Being a BARK Ranger is a great way to educate and encourage others to do the same.
As a BARK Ranger, you can encourage others in the hiking community to take the pledge and learn from it.
In addition to setting an example of environmental stewardship, you also demonstrate good trail etiquette with your dog.
How can your dog become a BARK Ranger?
Each park has its own requirements to earn the BARK Ranger title.
This could include a class or two focused on teaching BARK rules or a workbook.
In some parks, this is a short, one-on-one conversation with a ranger about the rules followed with a commitment to follow them.
After earning the BARK Ranger title for your dog, you will have the option to purchase the official BARK Ranger “badge” or medal for their collar.
Where can your dog become a BARK Ranger?
If you want to get involved and earn your dog’s BARK Ranger medal, you might be wondering which national parks and historic sites have a BARK Ranger program.
It’s hard to find out exactly which parks are participating, and program details vary from park to park.
Some offer the program all the time while others seem to only offer it for a short time on special occasions as per their event schedule.
There are rumors that you and your dog can get certified at these parks and historic sites:
No BARK Ranger program in your area? Ask for one!
If you have a favorite national park space that you don’t see listed, contact your local ranger station.
The program continues to grow with new locations appearing all the time. It has even been taken over by several state parks and historic sites.
The more pet owners express interest in expanding the program to new locations, the more likely you are to see them in the near future!
For those who can’t make it to a participating park, you can learn the rules and commit to following them on your own, then buy your dog a Bark Ranger Tag on line.
Become a BARK Ranger Ambassador
If your dog has already earned their BARK Ranger certification, you are committed to following the principles and are ready to take you and your dog to the next level, why not volunteer to be a BARK Ranger Ambassador?
BARK Ranger Ambassadors play an important role in our National Parks by providing visitors with the information needed to enjoy their visit in a safe and responsible manner.
Each of the volunteers receives training on how to approach visitors as well as how to effectively communicate the importance of BARK’s rules for the safety and well-being of visitors and the park itself.
For more information on becoming a BARK Ranger Ambassador, contact the park ranger station where you would like to volunteer.
They can give you more information about their needs and how to get involved.
We still have a long way to go in teaching dog owners how to hike with respect – you can see that by visiting any local trail. But, it’s a good start!
Remember, becoming a BARK Ranger does not give your dog more access
Many people know that most national parks only allow dogs in developed areas, including roads and campgrounds.
Unfortunately, contrary to popular belief, when your dog earns a BARK Ranger badge, it does not grant permission to access all areas of the park.
It simply teaches you how to be a better steward while enjoying the national parks within the limits of the pet rules.
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