emailPets in Parks
Dogs are welcome in most regional parks and trails.
From June 1 to September 15, dogs must be on leash when passing through beach and picnic areas and are not allowed to stay.
Please be aware that some regional parks have specific regulations regarding dogs. Read more 
Ayum
Creek Regional Park Reserve in Sooke is the only regional
park area where dogs are prohibited year-round. Ayum Creek is an important
salmon spawning area, and is undergoing restoration. Read more
Dogs must be on leash in the following parks and trails:
Dogs need to be under control and on the trail at all times in other regional parks and trails. "Under control" means that your dog returns to you immediately when called.
Clean Up After Your Dog
The CRD does not supply plastic bags in our parks. Please bring your own bags, clean up after your dog and dispose of your dog’s droppings in a garbage can.
Dog droppings left on or near the trail are a hazard for wildlife, other visitors and Parks staff.
Protect Your Pet from Natural Hazards
Parks are natural areas that may present hazards to park visitors and their pets.
It is difficult to anticipate when or where potential natural hazards may occur in regional parks. However, examples of common hazards to pets include:
- poisonous mushrooms
- moulds growing on decomposing matter, such as feces, grains, and nuts (mycotoxins)
- blue-green algae (cyanobacteria)
- unstable or slippery terrain
- high and fast-moving water in streams and ditches
- encounters with wildlife
To protect your pets and the natural environment, dogs need to be under control and on the trail at all times in regional parks and trails. CRD urges that park visitors ensure that pets are always in close view and on the trail, and use a leash if necessary to ensure their safety.
Please visit Health Canada for for more information on blue-green algae and mycotoxins.
Help Protect the Wildlife
Regional parks and trails are home to many species of wild plants and animals. Please do not let your dog run off the trail or chase wildlife.
Although your dog’s curiosity and playfulness may seem harmless, it can have serious consequences for wild creatures, which need to conserve their energy for feeding, breeding and nesting.
Chasing or harassing wildlife is prohibited under CRD Parks bylaws and the BC Wildlife Act.