Whistler’s canine community is in for a treat this month. On Saturday, March 8, Dog Day returns to Whistler Olympic Park (WOP), promising a winter day that blends outdoor adventure, community spirit and plenty of tail-wagging fun.
Transforming Porter’s Glide—the park’s dog loop—into a winter playground, Dog Day offers more than just a brisk outing. From 10 a.m. to 2 p.m., visitors can strap on skis or snowshoes and hit the trails alongside their four-legged companions. It’s a chance to get outside, mix with fellow pet lovers and support a vital local cause. Proceeds benefit Whistler Animals Galore's (WAG) Critical Care Fund.
Peta Woolnough, executive director for WAG, said funds ensure they can care for animals that may otherwise be left behind.
“We had 37 critical care cases last year which came to almost $30,000," she said. "It ensures we can say yes to the animals when they need it, if they come our way. A lot of places won’t take that animal. But if we have the funds for the program, we can say yes and don’t have to worry about the vet bill."
A day out for dogs and their people
Participants will find an array of activities to keep both pups and people busy. A dog agility course is set to test your pet’s nimbleness, while local experts Lindsay of Stellar Dogs and Kayla, the Whistler Dog Nanny, will be on hand to offer training tips and answer questions. Raffle prizes donated by local businesses and vendor booths offering pet treats, samples and gear round out the festivities.
Whether you’re drawn by the exercise, the social buzz or simply an excuse to spoil your dog, organizers say Dog Day is all about celebrating Whistler’s vibrant pet community against a backdrop of fresh mountain air. The first Dog Day event at Whistler Olympic Park was in March 2018.
Hosting the event at WOP makes sense, given the fluffy amenities. The park has 2.5 kilometres of off-leash, multi-use trails for walking, snowshoeing and cross-country skiing, and three km of woof-welcome snowshoe trails. Each winter, the park welcomes more than 7,000 dogs and sells an average of 400 pet passes.
There are two designated “dog parking” locations with direct trail access, and one has portable toilets and a warming hut with a fireplace.
Supporting the local pet community
The event is made possible through the support of local businesses including Firetail Pets, Little Pine Pet, FirstMate Pet Food, Zen Dogs, Clean Canines and others. Organizers encourage everyone to bring their gear, and head to the Callaghan for a day that marries the thrill of winter recreation with genuine community connection.
For more details, visit whistlerolympicpark.com.
