Pets

A woman in a ranger uniform crouches and pets an orange striped cat.
The neighborhood cats are friendly and enjoy being pet, but please use common sense when interacting with them.

Regulations

Per Superintendent's Compendium 36 CFR §2.15 – PETS:

Possessing pets in public buildings and in public transportation vehicles is prohibited:

Justification: The presence of pets at the other sites may distract from visitor experience.
This restriction does not apply to service animals accompanying persons with disabilities as defined by 28 CFR 36.104.

Pets are allowed in outdoor areas but are required to be restrained and accompanied at all times while visiting Harriet Tubman National Historical Park. Owners must pick up after their pets.

The City of Auburn requires all dogs to be under restraints, including leashing while in public spaces. Private facilities will have postings regarding policies for bringing pets inside, please respect their policies. Service dogs on duty are exempt where indicated.
Further information about the City of Auburn's Animal Laws.

Neighborhood Cats

There are many neighborhood cats which roam Parker Street, as well as much of the rest of Auburn.
Many of these cats belong to families in nearby houses, while others are strays that have been part of a TNR (trap, neuter, release) program. These cats are friendly to people and love pets and head scratches!
Although most of these cats are not wild animals, we ask that visitors use common sense when approaching the cats. Follow the guidelines below to ensure your safety and the safety of our neighborhood pets.

  • Do not feed the cats. They get plenty of food at home and from neighbors. Some family pets may have dietary restrictions.

  • Pay attention to the cats’ body language. If they do not appear to want to be pet, do not chase them. Do not corner them or pick them up.

  • Please do not allow the cats to enter park buildings.

  • If a cat enters a building or appears to be hurt or in danger, tell a park ranger.

(NOTE: The National Park Service does not own or take care of any domestic cats. We do not have the ability to control local populations or stray animals. Outdoor cats can pose a danger to local wildlife, and the lives of cats that live outdoors are often shorter and more vulnerable than those of indoor cats. While we are aware of the risks, we aim to promote the safety of the cats, visitors, staff, and other local animals in whatever ways we can.)

Warning

Park regulations prohibit pets from being left unattended, including in closed vehicles. High temperatures in closed vehicles can be harmful or deadly to pets.

Pets are not allowed in Fort Hill Cemetery

Plan your visits accordingly. You may visit Fort Hill Cemetery in a vehicle outside of walking programs if you bring a pet. You will not be permitted to join walking programs into Fort Hill Cemetary if you are with a pet. Service dogs on duty are exempt.

Last updated: October 24, 2024

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Contact Info

Mailing Address:

Harriet Tubman National Historical Park
P.O. Box 769

Auburn, NY 13021-0769

Phone:

(315) 568-0024
We do not currently have telephone service at Harriet Tubman NHP. Rangers from our sister park, Women's Rights NHP in Seneca Falls, will take all calls until further notice.

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