The Purrfect Solution When Visiting Grand Canyon National Park With Pets

THE SOUTH RIM, GRAND CANYON, Ariz. – February 3, 2017 – More than five million Americans visit the Grand Canyon on their bucket list of family road trips, and in today’s world, the family dog or cat gets to ride along. Few people know that you can bring your four-legged pets to the South Rim of Grand Canyon, but they must be leashed at all times and are not permitted on trails below the rim, on park busses, or in park lodging (service animals are exempt from these stipulations).

So, what are your options if you’re traveling with your pet and still want to explore the canyon’s inner trails and stay or dine in a park lodge? The South Rim Kennel offers 20 clean, cool kennels and a dog run tucked amid the pine trees near Maswik Lodge. Proof of current vaccinations is required for all furry guests to make sure your pet stays healthy. The kennel is open daily from 7:30 a.m. to 5 p.m., and after-hours pick-up can be arranged. Call 928-638-0534 to make a reservation.

For those staying at the Grand Canyon Railway Hotel in Williams and taking the Grand Canyon Railway to the South Rim Village, the Railway Pet Resort will make sure your pet has as good of a time as you do. Pets aren’t allowed on the train, but your dog or cat will appreciate being away from the whistles, horns, and vibrations at the climate-controlled kennel. An air-purifying system removes scents for your pet’s comfort, and each of the 28 dog kennels has private indoor/outdoor space ranging from 4-feet-square to 4 feet by 10 feet. Four extra-large kennels are available for larger dogs. Dogs must have several current vaccinations, check www.thetrain.com for the requirements.

For felines, each of the 16 cat condos has a ledge with an outside view that overlooks the basketball and volleyball courts, and windows let in sunlight perfect for catnaps.

The outdoor areas are covered to protect against the elements, and dogs get individual playtime in an exercise yard. Throughout the kennel, soft background music puts pets at ease, and owners are encouraged to bring their pets’ favorite toys and snacks. Weekly rates are available, and owners must provide proof of current vaccinations. The kennel is open daily from 7:00 a.m. to 8:00 p.m., March 15 to Oct. 31, and from 8:00 a.m. to 8:00 p.m., Nov. 1 to March 15. Call 800-843-8724 to make reservations.

All of this helps make for the purrfect vacation that is sure way one’s tail with happiness.

For information about the Grand Canyon Railway, visit thetrain.com or call 800-THE-TRAIN (843-8724).

For information about the Grand Canyon, visit grandcanyonlodges.com or call 888-297-2757.

For travel experiences, available from Xanterra Parks & Resorts and its affiliated properties, visit xanterra.com/explore.