Paws & Preparation: A Pet Owner’s Guide to Safe Adventures
Pet Safety

Exploring BC’s trails or campsites with your pet? Whether you're hiking the Chief, camping in Whistler, or strolling the Sunshine Coast, here’s how to keep your pet safe outdoors.
Quick Safety Tips
Leash Up
Wildlife like bears, cougars, and coyotes are common. Keep pets close to avoid dangerous encounters.
Hydrate
Often Bring clean water—natural sources may carry parasites like giardia.
Protect
Paws Hot rocks and sharp terrain can injure paws. Hike during cooler hours and consider booties.
Bug Check
Ticks and fleas are active in forested areas. Be sure to check your pet after hikes.
Know the Rules
Some trails require leashes or restrict pets. Always check signage.
Camp Smart
Keep food sealed and pets leashed. Watch for toxic plants and mushrooms.
Cannabis THC is highly toxic to dogs. Discarded joints or edibles on trails can cause vomiting, tremors, or worse. Seek emergency care if ingestion is suspected.
First Aid Essentials
Bring:
Tweezers (for ticks)
Bandages & vet wrap
Saline solution
Emergency contact info
Know the signs of heatstroke, poisoning, or injury—and act fast.
In Case of Emergency
Mountainside Animal Emergency & Specialty Open 24 hours a day, 7 days a week, 365 days a year Serving North Vancouver, Squamish, Whistler, Pemberton & the Sunshine Coast
In the event of an emergency, please call us or bring your pet in immediately.
Your adventure is better when everyone gets home safe.