I sure am looking forward to summer this year.
Last year, if you recall, was a spectacular one. The long stretch of hot dry weather went well into the middle of October. And if you haven't checked, the predicted long-range weather forecast is similar, if not better, for this year's summer.
I say road trips, here we come!
When I vacation locally I bring all my dogs along.
Sometimes my horses come too, but that's another story. Given the fact that I have a multi-dog family, I spend a bit of time before I leave preparing my adventure to ensure that my chosen locations are dog friendly. Not only that, I question the degree to which dogs are allowed. For example, is there a limit to the number of dogs a camper or vacationer can bring? I also want to know if the dogs have to be leashed 24/7 and whether there are trails accessible to hike with dogs. If so, do they need to be leashed at all times?
Many B.C. parks are dog friendly, but not all of them allow dogs on the beachfront, in swimming areas designated for people, or in any buildings at the campsite and require the dogs be on leash at all times.
There may even be a restriction to the length of leash. So it is really worth taking the time to prepare to prevent problems or even being turned away because you have a dog with you.
A really super link by BC Parks is env.gov.bc.ca/bcparks/ recreation/dog-friendly. On this page there is a list of parks that are dog friendly and ones that are not. The ones that are friendly have specific trails, off-leash areas and designated swimming areas for dogs.
If you take the time to look you will notice a symbol of a dog-on-leash with detailed guidelines on canine etiquette for that particular park. It is a super website with detailed information about dogs for every park and I suggest everyone take the time to review it before you head out the door.
Living on the North Shore, most people are accustomed to wildlife such as bears . or so you'd think. If you are not, then remember that when you get into the interior of B.C. and hike into the backcountry you are more than likely going to encounter some pretty amazing wildlife. Although it is a breathtaking sight to see a pack of wolves playing in tall grass or a cougar lounging on a high rock or even a bear at the edge of a stream, allowing a dog to be off leash in these areas could spell disaster. For humans it is best to view large predators at a safe distance with binoculars. Taking your dog along with you on a backcountry hike isn't recommended by BC Parks, but if you do choose to take your leashed dog into the backcountry, make sure you are fully prepared and experienced to deal with predatory wildlife. Remember that you are in their backyard! Even animals that are not predatory, such as elk, deer or moose, can be dangerous when threatened by a dog. Allowing your dog to chase these animals is just not cool.
We really are blessed to live in such a beautiful province and when the weather is good it is a spectacular place to vacation. Whether you pack up for a day trip, long weekend or spend a few weeks in the Shuswap region you won't be disappointed with the scenery. Enjoying it with your canine companions can make the experience that much better when you prepare ahead of time.
Contact Joan at k9kinship.com.
