Washington State Pet Travel Rules for RVers
Washington State has Olympics, Cascades, and one of the most dog-friendly state park systems in the country — with minimal entry requirements and broad trail.
Required Travel Documents
Washington State does not require a Certificate of Veterinary Inspection (CVI) for pet dogs and cats from other U.S. states. Livestock and horses do require a CVI under Washington State Department of Agriculture (WSDA) rules.
Carry proof of current rabies vaccination — most Washington campgrounds, RV resorts, and pet care facilities require it.
Vaccination Requirements
Washington requires rabies vaccination for dogs under RCW 16.70.010. Cats have no statewide mandate but many facilities require it.
The Pacific Northwest's wet climate raises risk for Leptospirosis and Giardia. Lepto vaccination is strongly recommended for dogs spending time near rivers, lakes, and wooded areas in western Washington.
RV and Vehicle Rules
Washington's maximum single-unit RV length is 40 feet. Combined tow/trailer maximum is 65 feet. Width is 102 inches; height is 14 feet on most highways.
Key mountain passes for RVers: US-2 (Stevens Pass, 4,061 ft) and SR-20 (North Cascades, 5,477 ft — closed in winter from November to April). I-90 over Snoqualmie Pass is the most reliable year-round crossing. WSDOT's 511 system provides real-time pass conditions.
San Juan Islands: Washington State Ferries accept RVs. Book vehicle reservations well in advance for summer travel to Orcas Island, San Juan Island, and Lopez Island — RV spots sell out months ahead.
State Park and National Park Pet Policies
Washington State Parks are notably dog-friendly. Leashed pets are allowed in campgrounds and on most trails — a significant difference from California and Utah. The 6-foot maximum leash rule applies.
Olympic National Park has layered pet rules: dogs are allowed on beaches (Rialto, Ruby, Kalaloch), in campgrounds, and on a handful of specific trail segments, but prohibited on most backcountry and forest trails.
North Cascades National Park: dogs are allowed in campgrounds and on the Pacific Crest Trail corridor where it crosses the park. Most other North Cascades trails are off-limits.
Mount Rainier National Park: dogs allowed in campgrounds, parking areas, and on paved roads. Prohibited on all backcountry trails.
Breed Restrictions and Quarantine Notes
Washington has no statewide breed-specific legislation. Check local ordinances at your destination.
No quarantine requirement for domestic dogs and cats from other U.S. states.
Disclaimer: verify with Washington State Department of Agriculture (agr.wa.gov) and Washington State Parks (parks.wa.gov) before your trip.
Frequently Asked Questions
Does Washington require a health certificate for dogs?
No CVI required for pet dogs or cats from other U.S. states. Carry current rabies vaccination records.
Are dogs allowed on trails at Olympic National Park?
Dogs are allowed on some roads, in campgrounds, and on the Rialto Beach spit. Most ONP trails are off-limits. Hurricane Ridge Road allows leashed dogs at the summit parking area.
Are dogs allowed on Washington State Ferry boats?
Yes. Leashed dogs are permitted on all Washington State Ferries, both on the car deck and inside the passenger cabin.
What are the RV limits in Washington?
40 feet for a single unit; 65 feet combined. North Cascades Highway (SR-20) and US-2 Stevens Pass are the primary mountain crossings and are accessible to most RVs.