Vancouver Goes to the Dogs: North America’s pet-friendly capital

Just outside of downtown Vancouver, high-rises give way to the white sands of Hadden Park beach.  Brisk ocean water laps at the shoreline and leafy coves offer shade from the sun.  This postcard-perfect strand would make an ideal spot for a picnic or romantic stroll except for one little thing:  It’s gone to the dogs.

Hadden Park is one of nearly a dozen dog beaches in Vancouver, one of the most pet-friendly cities in North America.  While people are welcome, it’s the dogs that rule the sand and surf at Hadden.  Here’s a quick rundown of other dog-friendly parks and amenities for pet owners visiting the city:

• Dog-friendly hotels: Dozens of hotels in Vancouver are happy to accept pets.  Options range from economy lodging to five-star digs.  Among the most notable pet-friendly hotels in the city is the iconic Fairmont Hotel Vancouver.  Dogs visiting the historic hotel receive a welcome mat and toy and can also eat from a specially designed pet menu.  The Fairmont even has two canine ambassadors, Mavis and Beau, who greet guests upon check in.  For a list of pet-friendly hotels and their restrictions, check out this website.

• Off-leash parks:  Fido will have no trouble finding green space to romp in Vancouver.  More than two dozen city parks offer designated off-leash areas, where dogs can run free at specific times of the day.  Some of these areas are fenced-in exclusively for pets, while others are open to people, too.  For a list of off-leash parks, check out this website.     

Article source: http://www.insidevancouver.ca/2011/11/11/vancouver-goes-to-the-dogs-north-americas-pet-friendly-capital/