Only 2,000-4,000 years ago, your labradoodle’s ancestors were still wild wolves, roaming the woods and answering the call of the wild. So it’s only natural that, every once in a while, your dog wants to tap back into their adventurous spirit. If you and your dog are both itching to explore the world together, become a Bark Ranger!
Bark stands for:
B: bag your pet’s waste
A: Always wear a leash
R: Respect wildlife
K: Know where you can go
Our parks and public lands are such a huge part of what makes New York so special and taking care of them while exploring with our furry friends is both an honor and a commitment. Becoming a Bark Ranger isn’t just for dogs! Cats and other adventurous animals can take the pledge.
Taking simple steps like cleaning up after your pet can prevent water pollution and disruption of wildlife, wearing a leash can ensure the safety and enjoyment of other visitors (pets and people alike), and knowing where you can explore helps preserve these sites.
State and National Parks all over the country recognize Bark Rangers for their commitment to the outdoors. But every park is unique in how it operates its program so it’s best to check the National Park Service website to find information about each site’s specific requirements.
Your BARK Ranger might also get some pretty cool stuff. Some parks offer your furry friend their very own badge or bandana to show off on the trail. They’ll also receive a certificate of honor for their hard work.
Here are some places to look into if you are interested in starting your journey right here in New York.
Thatcher Park
Thacher offers the most iconic views of the capital region and is always happy to welcome new Bark Rangers. Stop by the front desk in the visitors center to take the Bark Ranger pledge and to earn your gift and certificate of completion!
Home Of Franklin D Roosevelt National Historic Site
Step into the history of the nation’s 32nd president while exploring the beautiful grounds of his childhood home. The site’s rose gardens and outdoor areas are a great place to walk with your pup, but FYI only service animals are permitted inside the historic buildings.
Fort Stanwix National Monument
Explore a reconstruction of the fort that played an important role in the American Revolution. Bark Rangers can complete a few activities around the site and nearby parks to earn their tag and recognition. Just keep in mind that historic demonstrations may include loud cannon and musket fire, which could be startling for some dogs.
Saratoga National Historic Park
Explore the historic Saratoga battlefield with your pup while taking in the landscape where a major turning point in the American Revolution took place. The park’s Bark Ranger activities give you a few extra things to look for along the way, including waste stations and trail conditions, before completing a tick and invasive-species check after your hike.
John Brown Park State Historic Site
Explore the Adirondack home and final resting place of abolitionist John Brown, who settled here in 1849. The historic grounds and multi-use trails offer plenty of room to explore with your pup, and dogs participating in the Bark Ranger program can earn a collar tag and bandana.
To explore more sites that offer the Bark Ranger program and get certified, check out this interactive map.