Dogs are part of the mountain culture. In Vail, dogs must stay within 10 feet of an owner and be responsive to their command in residential neighborhoods. Leashes are required for dogs in the commercial areas of Vail Village, Lionshead, Golden Peak, Cascade Village, Ford Park and the West Vail shopping district. An off-leash area for dogs has been established at Bighorn Park in East Vail and a portion of Stephens Park in West Vail. Dogs are allowed on leashes in all remaining town parks, except Ford Park or within 100 feet of an athletic field while any event is in progress. Dog “baggies” can be found throughout town for easy clean up. Keep an eye out for additional areas that are signed throughout the community, especially at trailheads, which require dogs to be on leash. Please do not tether your dogs in public spaces.  

Many community members adopt pets from the animal shelter in Eagle where caretakers boast of an unusually high adoption rate.

Animal control services in Vail are provided by Eagle County. To call for service dial 970-328-3647 or email animalservices@eaglecounty.us. 

Animal Services (eaglecounty.us)

Vail is surrounded by an abundance of wildlife. To help everyone co-exist, wildlife protection regulations are in place to keep everyone safe.

Wildlife Protection Regulations