Pet-Friendly Whistler

More than 10,000 people live in Whistler and a large number of residents have pets such as dogs. As a result, Whistler offers excellent pet-friendly resources including miles of trails, dog beaches and parks, pet-friendly hotels and condos and services including boarding, grooming and walking.

Travelling with Pets

Before You Arrive

  • When bringing pets into the country, all dogs and cats are legally required to have current rabies vaccinations and papers. If your dog or cat is less than three months old you do not need a certificate of rabies vaccination, however, the animals must be in good health when they arrive. Dogs can enter Canada without quarantine from any country.
  • Please ensure your pet is wearing a valid license for your home community
  • Ensure your pet has adequate identification (e.g. microchip, collar with correct phone number) in case they become lost
  • Visitors travelling with a service dog must register them in BC to enjoy access under the Guide and Service Dog Act

When in Whistler

  • Dogs must be on-leash at all times within Whistler, except in designated off-leash areas
  • Please pick up after your dog; the Whistler Municipality provides compostable dog waste bags along the Valley Trail and in designated areas
  • Dogs are not allowed on many of Whistler’s signature hiking trails, including Whistler and Blackcomb Mountains, Rainbow alpine trails, Skywalk Trail and in Provincial Parks
  • Do not leave your animal unattended in a parked car in warm weather – animals can overheat quickly, even with windows down for air circulation – see Whistler's Animal Regulations
  • Never let your dog or cat out at night; there are predators that are well adapted to Whistler's environment that will think of your pet as food
  • Whistler receives a lot of snow in winter – small dogs may have difficulty getting around in unplowed areas or require a coat to stay warm
  • Dogs are not allowed to be tethered and left unattended anywhere in Whistler, this includes outside shops and restaurants. Many restaurants with patios in Whistler are dog-friendly but be sure to check with the restaurant before bringing your dog, as policies may vary.
  • Although many hotels welcome dogs, owners are not permitted to leave them unattended in rooms

Pet-Friendly Accommodation

Many places in town allow pets. Please note that not all rooms in each property can accommodate pets – it is important to confirm whether this option is available at time of booking. Whistler-based Travel Consultants are availble to help you find the best option for you and your pet. Call 1.800.944.7853.

Moderate Accommodation

For cozy creature comforts these properties are an excellent choice for you and your pet. Some are located within a tennis ball throw to the lifts, while others are spread around the outskirts of the village and closer to some of the resident trails.

Deluxe Accommodation

These properties will provide creature comforts for humans and animals alike, located in and around the Village for convenience.

Luxury Accommodation

In or near Whistler Village, these fine properties welcome pets while they pamper people. These hotels offer posh accommodation for humans and a warm place to curl up for your best friends.


Accommodation Tips

  • Most properties charge extra cleaning fees for pets which vary in cost. Check the property specific info for these charges or ask your Travel Consultant.
  • Properties ask that you do not leave your pets inside the rooms unattended. It can create problems with housekeeping and some dogs will bark. Please check with individual properties for details as some will allow you to kennel your pets while out of the room. In-room sitting services are also available in the resort.

Off-Leash Areas at Lakes and Parks

Whistler is a leash law community which means generally on-leash for parks and trails. There are a number of off-leash areas available for dogs at Whistler's lakes, so that pets can cool off as well as the humans. Alta Lake, Lost Lake and Alpha Lake all have designated off leash areas.

Whistler Village

Dogs are welcome to explore the Village with you, but must be on a leash. Some shops are dog-friendly, but please inquire before entering.

Hiking

Some trails around Whistler are able to be enjoyed with your canine friend. Note that dogs are not allowed on some trails – please respect these areas and obey signs at trailheads. Suggested hikes include:

  • Whistler Valley Trail
  • The Sea to Sky Trail
  • Brandywine Falls
  • Whistler Interpretive Forest
  • Ancient Cedars Walk
  • Nairn Falls

For more information about dog-friendly hikes and maps of the area, contact the Whistler Visitor Centre.

Winter Fun

Dogs love to play in the snow as much as humans do! Bring your friend along and explore the snow covered mountains together. Here are a couple of winter-specific activities for dogs and their owners:

  • Dogs, cross-country skiers, hikers and snowshoers are welcome on the groomed section of Valley Trail from Meadow Park to Rainbow Park
  • Dogs are welcome on the multi-use trail at Green Lake
  • Whistler Olympic Park has designated dog-friendly ski and snowshoe trails

A Doggy Date at Whistler Olympic Park


Events

As if you needed more proof that Whistler is dog crazy! Whistler has special events for canines and their companions all year long — some even sell-out!

Dog Day in the Callaghan

This one-day event held in the winter is a tribute to our four-legged friends. Spend a day exploring the incredible, dog-friendly cross-country trails at Whistler Olympic Park and Callaghan Country to support a wonderful cause. All proceeds from dog day tickets will be donated to Whistler Animals Galore (WAG).

K9 Wine & Dine

Whistler Animals Galore (WAG) Animal Shelter hosts this annual, black tie fundraiser with a dinner for canines and their escorts. It is a fun-filled evening that includes a fabulous dinner for dogs and owners, wonderful BC wine, and a charity auction. Reserve tickets well in advance as this event sells out every year.

Others

WAG and other organizations host additional activities throughout the year, such as Mother's Day Brunch, Father's Day Brunch, dog washes, Halloween parties, bake sales, and photos with Santa during the holiday season.

Veterinary Clinics

Name Address Contact
Coast Mountain Veterinary Services 2011 Innsbruck Drive in Whistler's Creekside 1.604.932.5391
Canada West Veterinary Services; After-Hours Emergency Services 1988 Kootenay Street, Vancouver 1.604.473.4882

Dog Sitters, Walkers and Trainers*

Name Address Contact
Whistler Dog Nanny Providing Whistler dogs with certified and educated care that focuses on force-free positive reinforcement. From dog sitting and puppy socialization to private and small group walks. Website
Biscuit's Pet Care Offering group & private dog walking services, operating 7 days a week. Website
Whistler Dog Sitting In-room sitting and adventure walks with pick up available from your hotel. Website
Whistler Dog Walkers Multiple walks daily, 365 days a year. 3-hour roundtrip walks include pick up and drop off. Fully insured. Website

Pet Grooming

Name Address Contact
The Fetching Dog Professional dog grooming, spa treatments and doggy day care. Website
Whistler Animals Galore Also known as WAG, this is the local animal shelter. For a small fee, they offer DIY bathing and grooming by appointment only. Website

*It is the responsibility of the owner to confirm pet services providers hold appropriate insurance and licenses for the services advertised.

Person with dog at Alta Lake in Whistler

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