Pets in Our Preserves

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Advocacy Natural Beauty Outdoor Recreation People

Please—Leash Your Dog. For Wildlife. For Safety. For Steep Rock.

Your pets are welcome at all Steep Rock Association nature preserves that are open to the public. When visiting our Preserves with your pets, please help us protect this land you treasure by abiding by the pet rules. These rules help protect you, your pets, our visitors, and the flora and fauna that call our nature preserves home.

Our Pet Policy:

All dogs must be leashed and must be under the owner’s control at all times—no exceptions.
Do not allow your dog to approach another person or dog unless invited.
Pick up after your dog – DO NOT leave waste or waste bags behind! Dog waste bins are available at most of our trailheads.
Steep Rock Association’s pet policy is in compliance with CT Law requiring pet owners to keep their dogs “under control” at all times on public property. Steep Rock Association has defined “under control” as meaning the dog is tethered to a leash. Visitors should be aware that there are statuary penalties for damaged caused to persons, pets, livestock or property by uncontrolled dogs.

Steep Rock Association reserves the right, in its sole discretion, to exclude any member of the public who fails to abide by this policy.

Why It Matters

Our preserves were created to protect wildlife, offer peaceful recreation, and safeguard fragile habitats. When off-leash, even the most well-behaved and friendly dogs can disrupt nesting birds, stress vulnerable wildlife, damage sensitive ecosystems, or frighten fellow visitors.

In recent months, we’ve seen the real and heartbreaking consequences of unleashed pets—from injured animals to dangerous trail encounters. These incidents are preventable—and they threaten the very experiences and values Steep Rock was created to uphold.

Leashing your dog is not just about following a rule. It’s an act of respect—for the land, for fellow hikers, and for the safety of your own pet.