Activities For Dogs In Carlsbad Caverns National Park
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Prepare for unexpected vet bills
Introduction
When planning a trip to Carlsbad Caverns National Park, you have a lot to consider - what to pack, where to stay and, of course, what to do with your dog. You don't want to leave your pup behind! However, like most National Parks, pets aren't always allowed or welcomed with open arms. But don't worry, there is plenty you can do with your pup at and around the Carlsbad Caverns National Park. Time to take a look and work these activities into your next trip!
Kennel
Popular
0 Votes
Any Day
Cheap
Easy
6 hrs
Items needed
Dog Bed
Leash
Collar
Activity description
If you are bringing your dog to Carlsbad Caverns National Park, you may quickly discover that pets are not allowed in the caverns themselves. Dogs are also not allowed in any of the park buildings or on trails around the park. However, this doesn't mean you have to leave your dog behind which you venture to New Mexico to go deep in the caverns! There is a highly rated, inexpensive dog kennel which you can opt to use for the day. Your pup can be dropped off anytime, you can quickly explore the park caverns and then pick up a happy, well cared for dog!
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1
Planning
The kennel near the national park is actually run by the parks department in an effort to accommodate your trip to the caverns. The Carlsbad Caverns Trading Company is where you can find the kennel and they are open every day of the week from 8:30am-4:30pm. There are no reservations and spots can fill up so you want to plan to arrive early to drop off your dog! It is a flat $10 rate for the day so a super affordable way to keep your pet safe and happy while you go to the caverns.
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2
Packing
If you plan on leaving your dog at the kennel, you want to bring a few things to make the spot feel like home. Pack your pup's dog bed along with some food, maybe even a toy or two to keep them busy while you explore the caverns. Dogs will be given fresh water but that is it! You will also need to bring proof that your dog has received a rabies shot so grab that documentation as well!
Step
3
Enjoy
While your dog takes a nice nap at the Carlsbad kennel, enjoy your trip exploring the caverns. Of course, you will be wishing that your dog was there with you but you can rest assured that they are being taken care of! Your dog would rather spend a few hours in a kennel than be left behind for your entire trip! See all the national park has to offer and then pick your dog up and go for a nice walk together.
Hotel Night
Popular
0 Votes
Any Day
Moderate
Easy
24 - 48 hrs
Items needed
Dog bed or Blanket
Leash
Collar
Dog Food
Activity description
When visiting the Carlsbad Caverns National Park, you will need somewhere to stay with your dog. Luckily, there are many pet-friendly hotels nearby where you and your dog can spend a night relaxing. There are hotels that range from the more expensive to the cheaper options so you will be able to fit the hotel you choose to your individual budget. You should also take into consideration and size restrictions a hotel may have on the dogs they allow and also see if there are pet fees that you will have to pay. A lot to consider but your dog will be happy they are on the trip with you!
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1
Carlsbad KOA
With campsites or small cabins for rent, this hotel is the best for dogs in the Carlsbad area. Not only are dogs welcomed but they are allowed to run free, play in the onsite dog park and are even given bones upon check-in. Is this hotel for humans or dogs? It's hard to tell! But you will surely want to check this one out when planning your visit to the Carlsbad Caverns National Park.
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La Quinta Suites
The La Quinta Suites in the Carlsbad, NM area are perfect for a luxurious night away with your dog. Not only are they pet-friendly but this hotel has every amenity you could need as a human! They also allow multiple dogs per room and have no size restrictions so feel free to bring your numerous big dogs - the hotel will just give you a smile and a key!
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3
The Carlsbad Inn
The Carlsbad Inn is a moderately priced hotel that allows just small pups so if you have a big dog, consider a different hotel. With all the basics you may need and close proximity to Carlsbad Caverns National Park, this is a solid choice of hotels. Curl up with your dog and enjoy the free cable and wifi!
Outside Excitement
Popular
0 Votes
Sunny Day
Free
Easy
1 hr
Items needed
Fresh Water
Leash
Collar
Activity description
When visiting the Carlsbad Caverns National Park, there may not be many places for your pup to enjoy in the actual park but there is plenty they can see and do in the surrounding area. It is always good when you can bring your dog for a walk, a hike or just let them explore outside. With so many things to see and smell, your dog will love all of these places where they will be welcomed while in the Carlsbad, NM area. Start your adventure at one of these inexpensive dog-friendly places and then look for more! Remember that it can be very hot in the Carlsbad area so bring some fresh water and try to stay out of the direct sun.
Step
1
Sitting Bull Falls
This park is located nearby Carlsbad Caverns National Park and is a big, dog-friendly park all its own. While dogs are required to be on a leash at all times, you can hike all of the trails with your dog and then let them join you while you go for a quick swim in the falls. A great place to take a hike and then cool off in the fresh running water.
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2
City of Carlsbad Dog Park
Carlsbad Caverns National Park may seem like it is the middle of nowhere but there is an entire city nearby. To make it even better, it is a city that has a great dog park! There is a fenced-in area where dogs of all sizes can run and play together. Bring your dog to this clean park to let them run around and get some energy out.
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3
Yellow Brix Restaurant
Plan a trip to visit this restaurant while exploring the Carlsbad area. Your dog will be welcomed on the large outdoor patio and the staff will gladly bring your dog a fresh bowl of water to enjoy. Your dog will love being outside with many new sites and smells (and maybe even a table scrap or two!).
More Fun Ideas...
Camping
Plan to spend a night under the stars with your dog while you camp at Carlsbad Caverns National Park. Dogs are allowed at all the campsites as long as they are kept on a leash.
Road Walk
While dogs are not allowed on the actual trails in Carlsbad Caverns National Park, you can talk your pup for a walk on the roadways. Keep your dog on a leash and enjoy the sites you can see right from the road.
Conclusion
While Carlsbad Caverns National Park may not seem like the most dog-friendly place to visit, you should definitely not leave your dog behind. There are plenty of things you can do with your dog in the surrounding area and, if needed, you can always opt to let your pup spend a day at the park operated kennel. Let your dog get some exercise, some extra attention at a luxury hotel and some treats at a local dog-friendly restaurant and they will enjoy the Carlsbad area just as much as you!