Summer fun with Fido: The ultimate West Coast K9 adventure guide

Summer’s here, and what better way to enjoy it than hitting the road or trails with your four-legged best friend?

Whether you’re exploring B.C.’s rugged coastline or soaking up California’s sun-drenched beaches, travelling, hiking and camping with your dog can be a blast, providing you remember a few key safety tips.

Here’s a go-to guide to keep summer travels smooth and full of tail-wagging fun.

Start smart: Health and safety

Before you pack up, make sure your dog is ready for adventure. A quick trip to the vet is a must for longer excursions. Ensure vaccinations are up to date and your pup is fit to travel. Don’t forget a copy of their health records.

Crossing borders? Canada requires a valid pet health certificate. Visit travel.gc.ca to check the latest regulations.

Travelling from Canada into the U.S. this summer? In most cases dogs travelling from Canada to the U.S. are required to fill out a CDC Dog Import Form, which can be done online. In some situations your dog may be required to meet additional standards before crossing – learn more online at cdc.gov/iportation/dogs.

It’s also wise to ensure your dog is microchipped and registered. That tiny chip could mean the difference between a happy reunion and a heartbreaking ending.

Roadtrip-ready

Use a properly fitted harness or secure crate for safety. An ergonomic walking harness helps during pit stops, and a non-tangling lead can keep multi-dog families organized. A durable car seat protector also helps keep fur, dust and mud off your upholstery!

Plan regular stops for potty breaks and water – your dog will thank you! – and avoid feeding right before departure to prevent motion sickness.

Car safety during warm weather

Did you know that when it’s 25°C (77°F) outside, a parked car can reach 40°C (90°F) in just 15 minutes?

Rolling down windows or parking in the shade isn’t enough. Dogs cool down inefficiently; their sweat glands are limited to the nose and paw pads. Panting and water help, but not if they’re breathing in hot air, which can quickly lead to brain and organ damage. Never leave your dog alone in a vehicle, even for a few minutes.

Flying with your furry co-pilot

Taking to the skies? Small dogs can usually fly in-cabin if they’re in an approved carrier. Larger breeds may have to fly in the cargo hold – always check airline policies before booking.

Hit the trails

From B.C.’s Juan de Fuca Trail to Washington’s Olympic National Park and Oregon’s Columbia River Gorge, the West Coast offers incredible dog-friendly hiking.

Use a long training lead for safe, controlled exploration and always carry water for both of you. Portable food and water containers make refuelling easy. At the end of the day, clean muddy paws with a paw cleaner and soothe cracked pads with all-natural paw balm.

A pet first-aid kit, emergency carry sling and portable tick remover kit are also essentials for backcountry safety.

Lastly, don’t forget the poop bags, and always pack them out with you. Leaving them trail-side isn’t just unsightly, it’s harmful to the environment.

Campfire companions

Camping with your dog is a great way to bond. Choose pet-friendly sites, bring familiar comforts like a blanket or favourite toy, and opt for a portable raised dog bed to keep your pup dry and comfy.

Remember, keep them leashed, clean up after them (a treat-and-bag dispenser is handy), and be mindful of other campers.

Near water? A flotation harness adds peace of mind during lake or ocean dips.

Beach time bliss

Speaking of beaches … the West Coast is full of dog‑friendly beaches just waiting to be explored! California’s Carmel Beach and Fort Funston are pup paradises.

In Canada, check out Tofino’s Chesterman’s, MacKenzie’s and Cox Bay beaches – all allow on‑leash dogs. Rathtrevor Beach on Vancouver Island allows leashed dogs on the campground side from May 1 to Feb. 14, except during spring goose migration (Feb. 15 to April 30 is off‑limits).

Vancouver area

• Spanish Banks (west section) – off‑leash beach at low tide
• Hadden Park (Kits Point) – off‑leash waterfront area • Sunset Beach – off‑leash zone, lifeguards in summer • New Brighton Park – off‑leash seasonally May – Sept.
• Ambleside (West Vancouver) – dog‑friendly riverside/beach access

Seattle area

Green Lake and Magnuson Park are well‑known off‑leash swim spots for dogs. Many Puget Sound beaches (like Golden Gardens and Richmond Beach) welcome well‑behaved pups – just check city leash rules.

San Francisco Bay area

• Crissy Field East Beach – off‑leash during certain hours
• Marshall’s Beach – off‑leash, great views of the Golden Gate
• Fort Funston – a dog favourite with cliffside trails and beach access

Remember, for low-light walks, use a reflective or LED light-up collar for extra visibility.

Respectful travel: 5 golden rules when travelling with your pet

1. Keep dogs leashed and under control – long leads offer safe freedom.
2. Respect wildlife and fellow travellers – not everyone, or every dog, wants to say hello.
3. Pick up after your dog and dispose of waste responsibly.
4. Follow local leash laws and campground rules.
5. Never leave your dog in a hot car – even at 15°C or higher, the risks aren’t worth it.

Pack like a pro: K9 adventure checklist

1. Leash and harness: An ergonomic harness keeps your pup comfy and secure.
2. Water and bowl: Pack a portable food and water set for on-the-go convenience.
3. First aid kit: Include bandages, tweezers, antiseptic, a tick remover and dog-safe meds.
4. Waste bags: A combo treat and poop bag dispenser keeps things clean and organized.
5. Comfort items: Bring a familiar toy or blanket. A raised bed is ideal for camping.
6. Emergency gear: An emergency carry sling is a must for backcountry hikes.
7. Tracking: GPS tracking collars offer peace of mind on long adventures.
8. Leads: Use a non-tangling lead for multi-dog trips and a long training lead for on-leash trails and beaches.
9. Safety gear: Flotation harnesses and reflective collars add extra protection.
10. Cleaning and care: A paw cleaner, car seat protector and paw balm keep things tidy and comfortable.

With a little planning and the right gear, your West Coast summer adventure with your dog will be one for the memory books. Lace up those hiking boots, load up the car and get ready for unforgettable quality time with your best pal.

Happy trails, happy tails – and safe travels!

– We independently select the products we feature. When you buy through our links, Black Press Media may earn a commission.

Plan your adventures throughout the West Coast at westcoasttraveller.com and follow us on Facebook and Instagram @thewestcoasttraveller. And for the top West Coast Travel stories of the week delivered right to your inbox, sign up for our weekly Armchair Traveller newsletter!