Where to play, where to stay and some other good stuff

 

As the owner of the best dog in the world (it’s true, just ask me!), one of the things I love about the Comox Valley is that it has plenty of options for dog owners and their faithful friends.

 

With numerous off-leash and on-leash areas, dog-friendly hotels and restaurants, boarding options and training clubs, dog owners can rejoice in knowing that their pals will get the treatment they deserve when they come to the Valley.

 

Want to know about places to play or stay with Fido? Read on!

 

Off leash and on the run

Are you and your dog looking for a place to let loose? The Valley has heaps of spots that fit the bill. Of course, as responsible dog owners, you must use common sense. If your dog is the type to intimidate people or pets, make sure you’re well off the beaten path before you unleash. But if you trust your dog to behave itself, here are some nice options.

 

Nymph Falls Regional Park, Tsolum Spirit, Royston to Cumberland Railway Trail and Eagles Drive: All are off-leash, provided dogs are kept nearby and under control. Most of the trails in these parks are multi-use, so horses and bikes may approach suddenly.

 

Goose Spit Park: Water, stairs and sand – sounds like a recipe for a good night’s sleep for everyone. But pets must stay on-leash between March 1 and May 20 to give migrating Brant geese a break while they rest and have a seaside meal.

 

Seal Bay Park: There’s a mix of off and on in this lush park. Leashing is required around Swamp Loop and on the water-side trails off Bates Road. And it’s all on-leash for the months of April, May and June, as it’s fawning and nesting season. But other than that, you’re good to go.

 

On-leash gems

Again, there are tonnes of places to pick from, and the Regional District has a good listing of various parks on their website as well as maps. My dog Bella and I like to head down to the Courtenay Air Park when we get the chance. Heck, even a walk around downtown Courtenay will result in treats and water from various stores. And in the winter, you can take your pooch up to a couple of “dog-designated” snowshoeing trails at Mount Washington.

 

Dog-friendly hotels and restaurants in the Comox Valley

Why leave your dog at home when you can bring them along? There are a number of local hotels that allow dogs for a small fee. The Old House Hotel, Holiday Inn, Comox Valley Inn & Suites, River Heights Motel and Port Augusta Inn & Suites all have a place for your loyal companion. And, of course, there are many options available when you search AirBnB.

 

Restaurants are a bit trickier but The Atlas, The Wandering Moose and Rawthentic have outdoor options for the summer, so Spot can lie at your feet while you dine al fresco.

 

Dog-boarding options

Sometimes you’ve got to get away and, lovable as they may be, the pets can’t make the trip. In that case, you may want to call upon the fine folks at Poochies, DoggyDo, Wishbone or Pets in the City to lend a hand. 

 

Dog clubs for fun and activity

These great local organizations continually prove that you can teach an old dog new tricks – and their owners, too! Roadsters Agility Club will keep you both fit and active; Forbidden Plateau Obedience and Tracking Club will keep you on the right path; and Comox Valley Kennel Club will have you bragging to friends.

 

 

So many options, so little time! Just know that when you’re in the Valley, you’ll be as happy as a dog with two tails.

 

For more information about life in the Comox Valley, canine or otherwise, please contact me, visit my website or “like” my Facebook page.