Whistler Pet 2016

Page 1

THE GO-TO GUIDE FOR PET TRAVEL IN BC’S SEA TO SKY REGION

whistlerpet.com


WHISTLER’S FULL SERVICE VETINARY HOSPITAL OFFERING: • Spay & Neuters • Physical Examinations • Vaccinations • Soft Tissue Surgery • Orthopedic Surgery • Dental Services • and more...

Dr. Kirby

Now offering Specialist Services! Dr. David Lane is now accredited as a Sports Medicine and Rehabilitation Specialist focussing on diagnosing and treating ongoing lameness and chronic pain in pets. Treatments available include surgery, physical therapy, acupuncture and Stem Cell Therapy.

Dr. Lane

Bella

OPEN: Mon-Sat 9am-5pm 604-932-5391 / 2011 Innsbruck Drive

Oscar

located above Samurai Sushi & Subway in Whistler Creekside

www.coastvet.com


L

Editor Alyssa Noel Writers Lauren McIvor, Brigitte Mah, Emma Taylor Advertising Sales, Whistler Amy Allen, Susan Hutchinson, Tessa Sweeney, Kate Whitley Advertising Sales, Squamish Jennifer Gibson Art Director Jon Parris Production Manager Karl Partington Design & Production Lindsey Ataya On the Cover Boe Boe, the 8-year-old Pomeranian Whistler local, finds an appropriately-sized rest area on his way to Joffre Lakes. Photo by Josh Crane. Produced by Whistler Publishing LP A division of Glacier Media 1390 Alpha Lake Rd, Whistler, B.C., V0N 1B1 604-938-0202 President, WPLP Sarah Strother

whistlerpet.com WH I S T L E R P E T 20 1 6  / 20 17

CONTENTS

Vincent takes a dip at Joffre Lakes – Photo by Hayley Wirsching.

Lost & Found

5

Happy Trails

8

Safety Tips

11

Whistler Unleashed Map

12

Meet the Dog Father

14

Cookie?

17

Directory

19

Sea to Sky NANA reconnects owners with their lost pets. From casual strolls to scenic hikes, our guide to dog-friendly and off-leash areas covers all four seasons in the Sea to Sky. Everything you need to know regarding year-round outdoor safety for your pet. Off-leash parks, beaches and pet ammenities.

Whistler Pet talks to Squamish-based expert, Christian Hatt. Putting three locally-made biscuit brands to the test. Pet-friendly accommodation and services in the Sea to Sky.

Thank you to all of our local readers who submitted photos of their four-legged friends!

3


For Emergencies and After Hours Care please call 604-962-0838 Visit our boutique 10am-5pm daily for unique pet clothing and accessories, organic gourmet dog treats, and local artwork and photography featuring quintessential Whistler mountain scenery.

(604) 962-0838 | #106–2067 Lake Placid Rd. Creekside www.twintreesvet.com

4

W HIST LE R PE T 20 16  / 20 17


By Brigitte Mah

RECONNECTING PETS AND OWNERS, ONE POST AT A TIME

Sea to Sky NANA helps dozens of animals find their way home again dedicated countless volunteer hours to the page. Every day, Olson logs in to the page at 8 a.m. Each time a pet is missing she creates her own digital “lost” poster and posts for seven days unless the animal is found. In between tending to her own pets, she checks back in on the page, making sure she hasn’t missed messages from owners or a finder. She even cruises through other Facebook pages to make sure there aren’t any lost pets elsewhere. She monitors the page constantly — sometimes until the wee hours of the morning if a pet has been lost. Finn is one of more than 175 pets that made their way home in 2015, thanks to the response from postings like this one created by Sea to Sky NANA.

For pet owners, there are two heart-wrenching days they never want to experience: the day they have to say goodbye, and the day their fur baby goes missing. While the Fountain of Youth hasn’t been discovered yet, owners in the Sea to Sky region have a special angel looking out for their missing pets. Almost exactly four years ago Randi Olson decided to create the Facebook page Sea to Sky NANA (Neighbourhood Animals Needing Assistance) to help owners find their lost fur companions. Like many revolutionary achievements, it was born out of an unfortunate incident. “I lost my own cat many years ago and always wanted to do something for lost pets. When Facebook came about I wanted to have a group,” said Olson. After the first dog to be posted lost was found, Olson said the feeling of knowing she had helped was “amazing.” From that moment on, she has

WH I S T L E R P E T 20 1 6  / 20 17

“If the animals and their owners need me, I will be there,” she said. Indeed, she is. Fawn Povelofski’s Shih Tzu cross Yorkshire Terrier named Keisha recently ran off behind Quest University and was missing for five days. Among the volunteers Povelofski rallied to help search the bike trails was Olson herself. When Povelofski received the phone call that Keisha had been found, Olson was in the car with her, and Povelofski started crying. “I thought after five days of being out in the bush something terrible had happened to her,” said Povelofski. “I was so happy and relieved (to have found her.)” Povelofski’s story isn’t unusual. Olson has driven to pick up birds, joined searches and adopted animals that no one has claimed. The page has grown from servicing only Squamish, to helping owners in Whistler and Pemberton. Currently over 2,400 people follow the page. Some are frequent users, like Victoria Downes. Downes was already very familiar with NANA  >>

5


(Left) Starla sticks close to home on Riverside Trail in Cheakamus Crossing – Photo by Lindsey Ataya. (Right) Decker follows the tracks to the Spit in Squamish – Photo by Ty Kreutzer. (Inset) Sasha waits patiently for her next command – Photo by Scott Stephens.

alive, what condition she would be in.

through her adventurous three-year-old dog Stella when her 16-year-old dog Finn disappeared from their Pemberton home last New Year’s Eve. “In all the 16 years I’ve had (Finn) she only goes to the corner of the road and back,” said Downes. But last New Year’s Eve, Finn, a mix of Blue Heeler, Shepherd, and Husky, decided to go off on her own incredible journey. Downes noticed Finn was missing from her usual spot around 3 p.m. in the afternoon. She immediately searched the woods near their house by Mosquito Lake, walking up and down the trails they normally walk together. As time passed and night fell, Downes became extremely worried. Finn was arthritic and slightly deaf. “I thought, ‘she’s super old, maybe she’s just wandered off to die’ because it was so out of character for her,” she said. With every passing hour, Downes’ hope fell. Downes posted on NANA within an hour of Finn missing, and quickly received a response from Olson. Downes sent Olson a photo of Finn and soon after the posting of Finn was on NANA. Downes spent an anxiety-riddled New Year’s Eve, agonizing over where Finn could be and if she was

6

By mid-morning on New Year’s Day Downes received a phone call from a man who had found Finn in Mount Currie, near the industrial park. Downes was shocked at the distance Finn had managed to travel. When Downes’ husband showed up, Finn was wrapped in a blanket. Her fur was matted with snow. “She was absolutely exhausted,” said Downes, who had to bring the water bowl to Finn because she was unable to walk to it. “I thought, oh boy, this is going to kill her if nothing else will.” Fortunately, Finn proved to be hardier than expected. She is still alive and well, and is back to her regular routine of adventuring only to the corner of the house and back. And although Downes will never know how Finn made it to Mount Currie, she knows she has her dog back because of Olson. “I’m so appreciative of NANA,” she said. “Randi has done so much for us and others. She is just amazing.”  The 102 dogs and 76 cats found in 2015 because of Olson would certainly agree.   Like the Sea to Sky NANA page on Facebook for updates on lost pets in the corridor.

W HIST LE R PE T 20 16  / 20 17


PRINCIPLES OF RESPONSIBLE PET OWNERSHIP Leash, licence and pick up after your dog Provide training, care and adequate exercise Ensure vaccinations are up to date Spay or neuter your dog or cat Do not leave pets in hot vehicles Do not allow pets to become a threat or nuisance in the community

Resort Municipality of Whistler whistler.ca

WH I S T L E R P E T 20 1 6  / 20 17

7


HAPPY TRAILS

By Emma Taylor

The best places to bring your pets for an outdoor adventure in the Sea to Sky Corridor

Snow-caked whiskers, shiny noses and grins from ear to ear, the dogs residing in the mountain splendour of the Sea to Sky corridor live the good life, and boy do they know it! Whether you’re in search of a gentle stroll or an eight-hour hike, the options for enjoying the Sea to Sky’s scenery with your canine are never ending. From high alpine lakes to ancient old-growth forests, the choices are endless — enjoy the adventure!

WH IS T LE R Whistler’s Valley Trail network weaves from Function Junction in the south to Emerald Estates in the north, meandering past crystal clear lakes and peaceful pine forests. Over 40km long, it’s open year round and is ploughed in certain sections in the winter. Cross-country skiing and fat biking are popular winter activities on the section from Meadow Park to Rainbow Park, which is groomed every three days. Although remember that leashing is required year round on the Valley Trail (for more on that see whistler.ca).

8

Whistler has four official dog parks for off-leash frolics. Alpha Lake Dog Park in Creekside, Lost Lake Park and Rainbow Park all include specially designated dog beaches and docks for canine aquatics. Bayly Park in Cheakamus Crossing is another off-leash option south of town. Within easy walking distance from Whistler Village, Lost Lake Park offers almost 100 kilometres of gorgeous forest trails in the summer months. A good start is the Nature Trail — open for hikers only — all other trails are shared with bikers so leashes are required. Take your bathing suit and enjoy a dip with your four-legged friend after! Experience the aura of an ancient cedar grove and bypass serene lakes on the Ancient Cedars Trail. A 4x4 vehicle is recommended for access on the dirt road. The Riverside Trail and Sea to Sky Trail are other popular options; dare your dog to cross the wobbly suspension bridge over the roaring Cheakamus River on the Riverside Trail. Emerald Forest offers another network of trails, popular with both hikers and bikers, while the Flank Trail

W HIST LE R PE T 20 16  / 20 17


(Main) Local pup Frankie out for a bike ride on Blackcomb – Photo by Claire Ryan. (Above) Chilko takes a breather after the long hike up to Joffre Lakes – Photo by Alyssa Noel. (Right) Boe Boe demonstrates one way to keep your pup contained on Whistler’s extensive Valley Trail network – Photo by Josh Crane. (Inset) Nixon smiles for a snapshot at Brohm Lake in Squamish – Photo by Zoé Martin.

offers spectacular views of Whistler Blackcomb, rising over the west side of the valley.

Sound, this flat, gravel track 2km hike won’t disappoint — watch for wildlife and kite boarders.

For an exhilarating day hike, check out the recently opened Skywalk Trail. This strenuous alpine hike stretches from Alpine Meadows to Rainbow Mountain, through fields of wildflowers and spectacular glaciers. The north section is 20.2km; the south is 17.1km (roundtrips). Matching this is Brandywine Meadows, accessed by 4x4, offering a 6km roundtrip up to stunning alpine meadow and surrounding peaks.

The Four Lakes Trail at Alice Lake Provincial Park is 6km long and follows four lakes. It’s closed to bikers from May 1 to Sept. 15. Admire the old-growth forest and luminous moss clinging to tree branches. Brohm Lake Interpretive Forest, located approximately 15k north of Squamish, has a number of lush, peaceful trails, including the one-hour trail circling the lake itself.

In the winter, Whistler Olympic Park (WOP) and Ski Callaghan are the places to exhaust your pooch. Callaghan dogs can enjoy over 35km of on and off leash trails, open for snowshoeing, walking or cross-country skiing, while WOP canines get to run on nearly 30km of cross-country ski trails and 17.5km snowshoe trails (both on and off leash.) See the map on page 12 for specific locations and directions within Whistler.

SQUAM IS H Don’t miss a relaxing stroll along the Oceanfront Interpretive Trail. With amazing views over Howe

WH I S T L E R P E T 20 1 6  / 20 17

The Stawamus Chief and Sea to Sky Summit Trail are both more challenging trails for the energetically inclined. Both offer spectacular views of Howe Sound and are open year round — leashes required. Descend from the Summit Trail in the Sea to Sky Gondola — just watch that tail as the door closes!

PE M B E RTO N Close to town, One Mile Lake Park offers a gentle, boardwalk stroll around the lake. You can also opt to hike along the Sea to Sky Trail to Nairn Falls Provincial Park. Here you can hike along the Green River to a lookout platform over the churning Nairn Falls. >>

9


(Left) Kaizer takes a breather from ripping around the cross-country ski trails in the Callaghan – Photo by Shelley Tsujimura. (Right) Stella poses for a photo while out for a walk on Riverside Trail – Photo by Melanie Schumacher. (Inset) Silver takes a dip in his favourite swimming hole, Logger’s Lake – Photo by Sarah Prunier.

Joffre Lakes Provincial Park is perhaps the jewel in Pemberton’s crown — located just half an hour away. Dogs are permitted on leash on the recently upgraded trail — enjoy a swim in the lower, middle or upper stunning turquoise lakes or camp overnight and stargaze. Tenquille Lake, when accessed by the Hurley dirt road, is a 12km round trip (with 4X4 trailhead

access) up into an alpine glacier and meadows. The steep and challenging Mount Currie trail is another that isn’t for the faint hearted — though truly spectacular. At approximately 16km round trip, the trail starts near the Green River Speedway and ascends the south side of the mountain above the Pemberton Valley. Views are worth the challenge.

Shouldn’t your dog have a vacation too? Serving the Sea-to-Sky Corridor Since 2003

Acres and Acres of Fully Fenced Fun Day Care/Overnight Care Pick up and Play Just 30 minutes north of Whistler

604-894-5466 www.ruthspethotel.ca

10

W HIST LE R PE T 20 16  / 20 17


OUTDOOR SAFETY TIPS Local experts weigh in on keeping your pooch healthy and happy By Lauren McIvor In the harsh conditions of winter or scorching hot days of summer, most people wouldn’t think of going outside without proper protection. But we have to remember to take care of our furry friends too. Whether you are going for a quick walk on the Valley Trail, hiking through Garibaldi Provincial Park, or planning an overnight backcountry expedition, it’s important to know how to keep your pets happy and healthy. To that end, Dr. Christine Kirby, local veterinarian and owner of Coast Mountain Veterinary Services, and Catherine Mazza at Whistler Animals Galore (WAG) offered some tips and tricks for keeping your furry friends safe all year round.

WIN T E R

> During the winter months, most animals can

on a scorching hot summer day. Try looking for unpaved trails when possible.

> Brachycephalic dogs, such as bulldogs and pugs, should be monitored outside in the warmer months because they can easily overheat or have difficulties breathing. If they appear to be in distress, Dr. Kirby suggests cooling them off with cold water as soon as possible.

> For those who love to play at Whistler’s dog-friendly lakeside parks, it’s important to keep a close eye if your furry friend isn’t used to swimming. Make sure to always have quick access to land or a floatation device, such as a doggie lifejacket or vest.

Y E A R RO UND

> Throughout the year, leaving dogs inside

tolerate the cold for a short period of time. Dogs who visit the Whistler-area might not be used to the colder temperatures, and depending on their age, size, coat and activity levels, could be more susceptible to the cold. In this case, Dr. Kirby recommends doggie coats to add an extra layer of warmth.

cars is always a risk. Cold temperatures are very dangerous, and summer heat can be fatal. Mazza explains that because dogs regulate their body temperature through panting and dispel heat through the pads of their feet, they can die of heat stroke very quickly. Your four-legged friend is better off left at home, she says.

> Abandoned or lost pets that are outside for

> First aid kits are a necessity for travelling

long periods of time without activity are at the highest risk for hypothermia and frostbite. Make sure to provide a warm and dry shelter with blankets for them to keep warm.

> When venturing into the backcountry with your four-legged companions in tow, it’s important to keep in mind that they need to have a good level of fitness in order to avoid injury.

SU M M E R

> Even though you are wearing shoes to protect your feet, your pets probably aren’t. Hot pavement can burn their paws, which is important to remember when out for a walk WH I S T L ER P ET 20 1 6 / 20 17

through the backcountry — for owners and for pets. Dr. Kirby recommends having a kit ready with basic bandage materials for injury, and antibacterial soap to clean wounds and prevent infection. If injury does occur, make sure to take your pet to a vet immediately following your return to avoid further damage.

> Keeping your pets fed and hydrated is especially important in the winter months, as keeping warm can quickly deplete energy levels. Always bring food and water, or make sure there is accessible water on the trails. If you’re carrying your water in a bottle, bring a collapsible bowl for your pet to drink out of.  11


Off-leash Park

1 2 3 4 5

Dog Beach / Dock Dog-friendly Nordic Skiing Dog-friendly Trail Access Veterinary Clinic

Bayly Park Alpha Lake Park (Arfa Park) Rainbow Park (Barking Bay) Lost Lake Park (Canine Cove) Spruce Grove Park * * inside field areas while not in use ke Rd

Pet Food / Supplies

Alt a

La

Pet Grooming Animal Control / Shelter

3 Tamarisk Alta

Bayshores

Lake Pla

ALTA LAKE

CREEKSIDE Kadenw o

od Dri ve

Blueberry Hill

Alta Vista

Whistler Cay Heights

Nordic Estates

Sarajevo Dr

Brio

Kadenwood

Function Junction and Cheakamus Crossing (see inset), Squamish and Vancouver ARO U ND T H E VILL AG E Rainbow Park   3 can be reached via Alta Lake Road or by walking along the Valley Trail. Walking from the Village will take around half an hour or so, and dogs must remain on leash until you reach Barking Bay at the south end of the park. In the winter you can cross-country ski with your pup on the multi-use trail between Meadow Park   6 and Rainbow Park   3 (it’s free!). Lost Lake Park   4 is just a short walk from the Village. You must carry a leash on the trails, except at Canine Cove, where dogs may swim freely. The new Skywalk Trail can be accessed from the top of Alpine Way, Valley Drive or Mountain View Drive in the Alpine Meadows neighbourhood.

12

err

eb

Blu

NITA LAKE

cid Rd

ALPHA LAKE 2

d

eR

Lak

Dogs are welcome on the multi-use Emerald Forest trails, located between the Tapley’s Farm and Alpine Meadows neighbourhoods. There is a pet supplies store in the Nesters shopping area, with WAG – Whistler’s animal shelter – just down the road. Left your pet at home? You can volunteer to walk one of WAG’s current resident dogs, or snuggle up with the kitties in the cattery! The Ancient Cedars Trail, north of Whistler, can be accessed by turning left off the highway on to Cougar Mountain Road, just past Green Lake.

C R E E KSI DE Alpha Lake Park   2 is located on Lake Placid Road, just past the Husky Gas Station and Nita

W HIST LE R PE T 20 16  / 20 17


Alp

ow Dr

6

Rainb

A La lta L ke ak Rd e R d

ow Dr

e

Alt a

Meadow Park Sports Centre

Alpine Meadows Alpine Meadows

eam

Ri v

GREEN LAKE GREEN LAKE

s

e

eam

Ri v

3

s

Tapley’s Farm Rd Ki

s Rd Nesters ster

Upper Village Upper Village

Bl a om ckco b W mb ay Wa y

r

eD

kc

S pruce

y

Wa

5

White Gold Estates White Gold Estates

r

en

re er Rd Lorim Lorimer Rd

ac

eD

en

yG

nc

Na

re

yG

nc

Bl

Spruce ir Grove K Spruce S pruce Grove

Nesters

5

ick

tr kpa

Na

VILLAGE

Ne

y

Wa

Gr

r yD

rick

at rkp

Gr ay o ve W o ve W ay

err

eb

Blu

ters

Nes

r yD

err Whistler Blueberry eb Hill Blu Cay ueberry Whistler Hill Whistler Cay Cay Heights WHISTLER Whistler VILLAGE Cay Heights WHISTLER

Blackcomb Way

LOST LAKE LOST 4 LAKE

4

Blackcomb Way

To Pemberton and Ancient Cedars Trail To Pemberton and Ancient Cedars Trail

Lake Lodge. Arfa Lake Dog Park and dock is situated close to the parking lot, past the tennis courts.

Alpha Lake Rd Millar Creek Rd

There are two veterinary clinics located in Creekside Village, just on the other side of the highway.

Across the highway in Function Junction you will find a vet, dog spa and a pet supplies store, as well as access to the scenic Flank Trail.

WH I S T L E R P E T 20 1 6  / 20 17

Cheakamus Crossing Cheakamus ay W y c L1ega Crossing

1

ay cy W Lega

Rd

From here you can easily access the Sea to Sky Trail (follow the signs from Bayly Park) as well the Riverside Trail. Keep an eye out for hikers and bikers on these multi-use trails.

Che C a k am heaka us mu La ke s L a ke

WH IS T LE R S O U T H Bayly Park   1 , with a fenced, off-leash dog area, is located in the Cheakamus Crossing neighbourhood.

Alpha Lake Rd

Function Millar Creek Rd Junction Function Junction

Rd

o

6

Rainb

n Dr lde r of Go n Dr lde Tapley’sr of Farm Go

ine Wa y Alp i ne Park Meadow Wa Sports Centre y

Please pick up after your dog and dispose of the waste in a garbage can.

13


MEET THE DOGFATHER

By Emma Taylor

We chat with the Squamish-based expert who aims to help dog owners develop a better relationship with their pets

“It’s inside me — I don’t have any choice — it’s who I am,” said Christian Hatt, of his passion for dogs and wolves. Hatt, also known as the Dogfather, has lived with, and been fascinated by canines all his life. After volunteering at wolf sanctuaries in the U.S., he heeded his calling to the wild and now lives beside the Squamish River in a teepee with his current pack of five — including two wolf hybrid pups, Raven and Chief. A certified veterinary nurse and an ardent supporter of Pacific Wild and Wildlife Defence League in stopping the current B.C. wolf cull, he’s worked as the Dogfather, helping dog owners develop better relationships with their dogs, for four years. His approach is two tiered, focusing on education and rehabilitation. Describe your approach as The Dogfather. I’m not really a dog trainer — I’m an owner

14

trainer. I help owners become better dog leaders. I teach them about pack mentality and about how historically and genetically dogs are programmed to operate, which is different from us. A lot of people tend to put dogs into a human category; I show owners how to treat their dogs like dogs —read and understand their dogs — how basically to be the alpha leader of their wolf pack. Tell me about the two dynamics of what you do. One is rehabilitation. Dogs that have had trauma or are super aggressive — maybe they’ve been isolated or abused. The other side is just your everyday common dog with slight behavioural problems — that’s the educational side of it. Through education, I teach owners to be better owners, then once strong leadership is established, most behavioural problems correct themselves. Good nutrition is another key aspect.

W HIST LE R PE T 20 16  / 20 17


What is dog whispering? Whispering is a combination of many subtle elements. It’s reading body language, education, training work, recognition of pattern, subtleties — looking for subtleties in the animal’s behaviour — and time spent together. When I have the ability to be with an animal for a period of time I see these things emerge from the animal it speaks to me. I wouldn’t like to say I hear them, but what happens is a solution appears, it manifests itself and it’s been 100 per cent. I haven’t missed. Every time I’ve whispered an animal with any degree of trauma I’ve had success. Other than the usual “sit” and “stay” commands, how can owners consistently discipline their dog? Through assertive, consistent and calm leadership. Describe how you use exercise, discipline and affection to be a strong pack leader. Not only are these pillars, but they’re dynamic within themselves. Calm, assertive

leadership, mixed in with the proper amount of positive reinforcement, and properly placed affection, this creates a dynamic with your dog that’s based on positive and negative, good and bad. That’s basically what the dog operates on — it doesn’t really have many subtle degrees of emotion, there’s either super happy and hyper or there’s not so happy and angry. I use those dynamics to help create a language that you and your dog can understand. All these dynamics are essential — you have to have them all. What are the best ways to manage your dog’s behaviour? Strong leadership, love and affection, consistency, good food, good nutrition and exercise. Why is consistency so important? Because dogs need repetition to feel secure. When things change a great deal and at a fast pace this creates stress inside the dog and the dog has a hard time switching environments and reacts negatively. That >>

tAIL WAGGING, LIP SMACKIN’ ORGANICALLY DELICIOUS!

One-On-One Training Agility Classes 4-Week Puppy Classes 4-Week Obedience Class 4-Week Consistent Recall Class

604-905-9344

whistlersfunfordogs.com paula@whistlersfunfordogs.com Dog Friendly Whistler

WH I S T L E R P E T 20 1 6  / 20 17

Available locally at: WHISTLER HAPPY PETS, NESTERS AND O’BRIEN’S PET FOODS AND SUPPLIES

www.betterbickies.com 100% ORGANIC INGREDIENTS | NO WHEAT, NO CORN, NO SOY | NO ADDITIVES NO PRESERVATIVES | HANDY ZIP LOCKED PACKAGES

15


being said, dogs do need experience and adventure — just don’t overwhelm them. Consistency is routine — food, affection, downtime, sleeping time, leaving the dog and coming home at the same time etc. Are some dogs just naturally aggressive? The guarding breed can definitely be more aggressive as that’s natural to their genetic state — that’s what they were born to do. But, with good leadership at the puppy stage, they don’t have to be.

needs and mentalities are all about. Learn how pack mentality works — not only with dogs, but with all animals. It will really help you to understand what your dog needs from you to give it within.  You can find Christian on Instagram @dogfatherbc, visit his website at dogwhisperercanada.com, or email dogfatherbc@gmail.com.

What are the most common training aspects you work on? Educational — 90 per cent of the time. People having small to minor behavioural issues — I go in and just restructure their situation. A lot of people say “I don’t know if I’m doing this right.” There’s not a lot of education out there showing how to be good dog leaders. How can you be the strongest pack leader possible for your dog? Hire me! (Laughs.) Understand what dogs’

Photo by

Hayley W

irsching

Dr. Loridawn Gordon welcomes you and your pets to Whistler Veterinary Clinic. Our approach to animal care is both conventional and holistic. We are happy to help you learn more about improving your pets health through Homeopathy, Supplements, Natural herbal products and Nutrition! Doggy Daycare services are now available!

EMERGENCY after-hours care available

604.905.5088 whistlervetservices.ca 16

W HIST LE R PE T 20 16  / 20 17


In a not-so-scientific taste test, we rounded up three locally made dog treats, placed them under numbered cups and let four of Whistler Pet’s canine ambassadors choose their favourite. Under cup number one was Auntie Kim’s Better Bickies in Sunday Dinner flavour. In cup number two, Burger Bites by Noah’s Ark Pet Treats. Finally, under cup number three we hid Mountain K9 Organic Beef Liver treats.

? E I K O O C SCHULTZ

CHILKO

TEEBO

STARLA

Shultz is a 5-year-old Chilko is an adopted Teebo is a cheerful Starla is an adopted dachshund who has recently Husky-Cattle Dog mix who Bichon-Shitzu pup with 8-year-old German found his calling to protect loves running around with a gorgeous coat of hair Shepherd who is extremely the neigbourhood from wild impressively large sticks that he prefers to keep loyal until those pesky critters big and small. in his mouth. styled scruffily. squirrels initiate a chase.

Teebo beelined to cup number three. After gobbling up the jerky treat, he got a little excited and had to be redirected back to the taste-testing centre. He sniffed around for a while before overturning cup number two, filled with burger bites, then enjoyed the contents of cup number one. Treat-crazy Chilko had to be held back while the other dogs had their turn. During his taste test, he overturned cup number three quickly. Immediately, he knocked over cup number two, devoured its hidden treat, then continued down the line to cup number one. Like all the other dogs, Schultz headed to cup number three first. Eating quickly, he then knocked over cup number two where he slowly ate the burger bite, chewed on the cup for a moment then moved on to savour the contents of cup number one. Starla must know how to count. Starting off with number three, she cleaned up the crumbs Schultz left behind before moving down the line to cup number two then number one. Results: Not a crumb was left behind. Our taste testers give two paws up to all of the yummy treats. 3

1

2

Pick up any of these yummy treats at either Whistler Happy Pets locations. WH WHIISSTTLLEER R PPEET T 20 201165-20  / 20117 6

17


Tuesday - Saturday 8am - 4pm

$5 off your next visit

604 905 6788

PEMBERTON VETERINARY HOSPITAL

Providing compassionate veterinary care in the Pemberton Valley and surrounding area.

Check us out online at pembertonvet.com 5-1345 Aster Street, Pemberton

www.bubblesdogspa.ca

604-894-1119

Located in Function Junction between the Garden Center & the Vet

Stoney Creek

14-05-01 1:30 PM

Resort Properties

Sh

Bubbles Dog Spa 2.1875x3.6875.indd 1

pooch am 604-902-5512

The most requested units in Whistler

www.shampooch.ca

Mobile Dog Grooming

Why Use Sea To Sky’s ONLY Mobile Dog Groomer?

We’re Pet Friendly Toll Free: 1-888-755-0999 Email: info@whistlerstoneycreek.com

Convenience Sea To Sky’s ONLY We come to you! Mobile Dog Groomer Less Stress

Mention this ad to Let your petreceive relax aincomplimentary our quiet, toothcalm, brushing with atmosphere. your dog’s groom. relaxing

No Cages 18 Stoney Creek 2.1875x3.6875.indd 1

14-05-01 1:36 PM

All dogs are hand dried.

W HIST LE R PE T 20 16  / 20 17

Product Quality Our products are all natural & of the highest quality.


LEGEND Pet-friendly Accommodation Dog Walking & Adventures Pet Boarding & Daycare Animal Training Pet Grooming Pet Food Pet Supplies Pet Photography Veterinary Services Bylaw & Information Dog Licensing Animal Shelter / Adoptions

DIRECTORY Aava Hotel Whistler 4005 Whistler Way 604-663-5644 aavawhistlerhotel.com Adara Hotel

See page number for corresponding advertisement

Annie Let the Dogs Out

Auntie Kim’s Better Bickies

Canine Valley Education Centre

15

Alpenlofts Veterinary Hospital

Barkbusters Home Dog Training

Squamish 40376 Tantalus Way 604-815-0057 alpenloftsvet.ca

Sea to Sky Corridor 1-866-418-4584 barkbusters.ca Bear Aware

Whistler & Pemberton 604-902-WOOF (9663) alpinedogs.ca

Whistler & Squamish 604-935-0751 604-815-5066 bearaware.bc.ca

Animal Barn

Bosley’s Pet Food Plus

21

WH I S T L E R P E T 20 1 6  / 20 17

Squamish 630-1200 Hunter Place 604-892-5537 bosleys.com

Country Ranch

18

Whistler 1100 Millar Creek Road 604-905-6788 bubblesdogspa.ca

Squamish 604-815-7668 betterbickies.com

Pemberton 1384 Portage Road 604-894-6740 animalbarn.ca

Bubbles Dog Spa

Squamish 604-892-8005 squamishdogwalking.com

Whistler 4122 Village Green 1-866-502-3272 adarahotel.com

Alpine Dogs

Tika takes a moment to appreciate how lucky she is to live in BC’s beautiful Sea to Sky region - Photo by Hayley Wirsching.

Squamish 39660 Government Road 604-250-5097 caninevalley.com Coast Blackcomb Suites Whistler 4899 Painted Cliff Road 604-905-3400 coasthotels.com Coast Mountain Veterinary Services  2

Whistler 203-2011 Innsbruck Drive 604-932-5391 coastvet.com

Squamish 1032 Finch Drive 604-815-0006 Crystal Lodge Whistler 4154 Village Green 604-932-2221 crystal-lodge.com Delta Whistler Village Suites Whistler 4308 Main St 604-905-3987 deltahotels.com District of Squamish Animal Control Squamish 39903 Government Road 604-815-6866 squamish.ca/our-services /animal-control >>

Get listed in our directory for FREE! Call 604-938-0202 for more info

19


(Left) Ella takes in one of many stunning views that Whistler has to offer – Photo by Linda Smith. (Above) Stinky wants you to know that Happy Pets carries the best catnip in town – Photo by Hayley Wirsching. (Inset) Lucie, out and about on a snow day – Photo by Katie Bechtel.

The Dog Father

FurFriend Adventures

Squamish dogwhisperercanada.com

Squamish 604-848-4809

Dog Haven

Golden Dreams B & B

Squamish 604-898-3111 doghaven.ca

Whistler 6412 Easy Street 604-932-2667 goldendreamswhistler. com

Eagleview Veterinary Hospital   23

Squamish 38147 Cleveland Avenue 604-815-6808 eagleviewvet.ca Evolution  4

Whistler 2020 London Lane 1-888-583-8046 evolutionwhistler.ca Fairmont Chateau Whistler 4599 Chateau Boulevard 604-938-8000 fairmont.com/whistler Four Seasons Whistler 4591 Blackcomb Way 604-935-3400 fourseasons.com/ whistler

20

Garibaldi Veterinary Hospital Squamish 40376 Tantalus Road 604-898-9089 gvh.ca The Green Dog Squamish 38127 Second Avenue 604-892-DOGS (3647) thegreendog.ca Hilton Whistler Whistler 4050 Whistler Way 604-932-1982 hilton.com/whistler It’s a Dog’s Life Dog Adventures Pemberton 604-935-9145

LeeLee’s Grooming Lounge

Pan Pacific Village Centre

Squamish 1005 Industrial Way 604-892-2275 leeleesgroominglounge.ca

Whistler 4299 Blackcomb Way 778-966-5500 panpacific.com

Listel Hotel Whistler

Pinnacle Hotel

Whistler 4121 Village Green 604-932-1133 listelhotel.com

Whistler 4319 Main Street 604-938-3218 whistlerpinnacle.com

Nita Lake Lodge

Paw in Hand Pet Services

Whistler 2131 Lake Placid Road 778-966-5700 nitalakelodge.com O’Brien Pet Food and Supplies Squamish 1103-121 Commercial Place 604-892-9035 Outward Hound Canine Care Squamish 778-266-0117 outwardhound.ca

Squamish 604-892-4278 pawinhand.com Pemberton Vet Hospital   18

Pemberton 5-1345 Aster Street 604-894-1119 pembertonvet.com Riverside Resort Whistler 8018 Mons Road 604-905-5533 whistlercamping.com >>

LOST YOUR PET? Call the RMOW bylaw services at 604-935-8280

W HIST LE R PE T 20 16  / 20 17


FREE RANGE BOARDING and doggie daycare for friendly

well-socialized dogs.

1 to 3 HOUR HIKES depending on each dogs energy level

included in boarding.

LARGE, CLEAN indoor and outdoor play areas and plenty of comfy beds to cozy up on after a day of fun.

OWNER OPERATED professional, friendly staff; fully insured and A+ rating with BBB.

SPA-W services available.

40667 Government Rd. 604.733.6483 | ruffstuff.ca info@ruffstuff.ca

Pet & Farm Feed & Supplies Equine Feed & Tack

604 894 6740

#1-1348 Portage Road, Pemberton Open Mon. to Thurs. & Sat. 10 - 6 Fri. 10 - 7 & Sun. 10 - 4

WH I S T L E R P E T 20 1 6  / 20 17

21


W ap co m di (Left) Chilko takes a break from playing with his sheep friends at Noble’s Ark farm in Pemberton – Photo by Leah Noble. (Inset) Chirp checks on the weather like a true Whistler local – Photo by Heidi Rode. (Inset) Maggie-Rue smiles for the camera – Photo by David Arnott. (Right) Frankie enjoys the winter sun while hiking on Flank Trail – Photo by Claire Ryan. (Bottom) Garbo on one of Whistler’s many walking trails – Photo by Mel Auger.

Resort Municipality of Whistler  7

Whistler 4325 Blackcomb Way 604-935-8280 whistler.ca/dogs Ruff Stuff Dog Services   21

Squamish 40667 Government Road 604-733-6483 ruffstuff.ca Ruth’s Pet Hotel   10

Pemberton 604-894-5466 ruthspethotel.ca Shampooch Mobile Grooming   18

Sea to Sky Corridor 604-902-5512 shampooch.ca Spectrum Animal Massage Sea to Sky Corridor 604-848-4453 animalmassage.ca

Trail Dogs

Brackendale 39901 Government Road 604-898-9890

Whistler and Squamish 604-905-9273

Squamish 38131 Second Avenue 604-390-2727 Stoney Creek Properties

4

Whistler 106-2067 Lake Placid Road 604-962-0838 twintreesveterinary clinic.com The Twisted Whisker Pemberton 1366 Aster Street 604-894-3647

Summit Lodge and Spa

Whistler Animals Galore (WAG) Animal Shelter

Whistler 4359 Main Street 604-932-2778 summitlodge.com

Whistler 8000 Nesters Road 604-935-8364 whistlerwag.com

Tantalus Lodge

Wag n’ Wash

Whistler 4200 Whistler Way 604-932-4146 tantaluslodge.com

Pemberton 1384 Portage Road 604-894-1800

16

Tanya De Leeuw   21

Whistler 604-932-7888 tanyadeleeuw.com

22

Twin Trees Veterinary Clinic & Pet Boutique

18

Whistler 4335 Northlands Blvd. 604-932-7189 whistlerstoneycreek.com

10

Whistler 604-967-3221 whistlerdogsitting.com Whistler Dog Walkers

Squamish SPCA

Squamish Veterinary Hospital

Whistler Dog Sitting

Westin Resort and Spa Whistler 4090 Whistler Way 604-905-5000 westinwhistler.com

Whistler 604-907-0083 whistlerdogsitting.com Whistler Happy Pets   24

Whistler Function Junction: 101-1085 Millar Creek Road 604-932-3050 Nesters: 70066-7007 Nesters Road 604-962-2992 whistlerhappypets.com Whistler Olympic Park  7

Whistler 5 Callaghan Valley Road 604-964-0060 whistlersportlegacies.com Whistler Vet Clinic   16

Whistler 7-1100 Millar Creek Road 604-905-5088 whistlervetservices.ca Whistler’s Fun for Dogs   15

Whistler 604-905-9344 whistlersfunfordogs.com *  Please call in advance to ensure hotel policies haven’t changed.

W HIST LE R PE T 20 16  / 20 17

O

W S D R B H C

Dr. 604 101


Celebrating

10

Years!

We are a full service hospital with a holistic approach. We are dedicated to integrating conventional and alternative veterinary medicine, to provide a balanced approach to diagnosis and treatment that will best help us care your pet.

Wellness Examinations Surgery Dentistry Radiography and Ultrasound Bloodwork and Laboratory Tests Herbal Medicine, Nutritional Consultations and Supplements

Acupuncture and Chiropractic Medicine, Rehabilitation Services Puppy Classes House Calls Intensive Care and Overnight Monitoring Grief Counseling

“Voted Best Veterinary Services 10 Years in a Row!�

2015

OUR SERVICES

Dr. Melanie Armstrong, Dr. Julie Mountfield, Dr. Briony Sturgess 604.815.6806 www.eagleviewvet.ca 101-38147 Cleveland Avenue, Downtown Squamish


Visit Whistler Happy Pets for all of your Pet Supplies Whistler’s source for dog, cat and pet items. Toys, treats, crates, beds, collars and more! We stock only foods high in protein with no fillers or by-products. We carry your favourite local Sea to Sky and Canadian made products.

Approved by discerning area locals! NOW TWO LOCATIONS TO SERVE YOU: Function Junction: #101- 1085 Millar Creek Rd 604-932-3050 Store Hours: Monday to Saturday 10 am - 5:30 pm And Sunday from 11 am - 4 pm

Happy Pets_ 5x8.25.indd 1

Nesters: #70066 - 7007 Nesters Rd 604-962-2992 Store Hours: Open 7 days a week 11:30am-7:00pm

14-03-28 12:38 PM


Turn static files into dynamic content formats.

Create a flipbook
Issuu converts static files into: digital portfolios, online yearbooks, online catalogs, digital photo albums and more. Sign up and create your flipbook.