Taking a large dog to Delaware parks and beaches

The Delaware State Parks pets page says pets must be licensed with proof of rabies vaccination, and the Delaware State Parks pets brochure says a pet must be leashed, not to exceed 6 feet, and under your control except in designated off-leash areas, hunting-dog training areas or while hunting with the right permit. It lists Wilmington State Parks, Lums Pond State Park and Killens Pond State Park as parks with off-leash or dog training areas, and says never to leave a pet unattended, even in a vehicle.

The Deauville Beach page says dogs are not allowed on the beach from May 1 through September 30 except service animals, and that from October 1 through April 30 a dog must stay on a 6-foot leash. The Delaware State Parks surf fishing page says dogs are allowed in surf fishing vehicle areas on a leash of 6 feet or less, and people, pets and vehicles may not enter the dunes or bird nesting areas.

The DNREC nature preserves page says pets are not allowed in every preserve and must be on a leash of 6 feet or less where they are allowed. The Delaware State Parks campsite pet policy lists a $25 per night fee, with a two-dog limit, for the dog-friendly cabins at Killens Pond and Trap Pond.

A dog that stays composed at a trailhead with strangers and other dogs nearby is the one these rules assume. Ask any provider to show you that in public.