Regional parks are great places for people and dogs to visit. They’re also important as habitat for wildlife such as birds, bees, salamanders, deer and bears.
Metro Vancouver Regional Parks has developed a few rules to keep pets, people, wildlife, and habitat healthy and safe.
Canine code of conduct
- Keep your dog under control in all places at all times. Dogs must be leashed, unless in a designated off-leash area or on a designated leash-optional trail.
- Scoop your dog's poop and deposit the bag in a designated container (not the forest). Leave all trails as clean—or cleaner—than when you arrived.
- Respect wildlife and their habitat—you and your dog are in their home.
- Keep your dog out of streams, creeks, ponds, wetlands and shorelines. A variety of wildlife lives in these areas including fish, frogs, salamanders and birds.
- Keep your dog from digging or causing damage.
- Yield the right-of-way to other hikers. Keep your dog close and under control as others pass by. Yield the right-of-way to equestrians. Say hello so riders know you are there, and keep your dog close, quiet and under control as horses pass by.
- Always be courteous. Don't give other trail users any reason to complain. Set an example by being a conscientious owner with a well-behaved dog enjoying the trails.
Impact of dog poop in regional parks
Dog poop can harm people and the environment
Dog poop is not fertilizer. It's full of bacteria, nitrogen, and salts which don't dissolve and can be harmful to plants, aquatic life, and people.
Since dogs are meat eaters, their feces can carry pathogens including coliform bacteria, salmonella, and giardia. Some parasites can linger in soil for years. This can:
- Contaminate soil and water (and make people sick)
- Put young children at risk if they inadvertently eat contaminated dirt or grass
- Pose risks to people who are in hand-activated wheelchairs and people playing sports
Dogs typically defecate along the first 100 to 150 metres of a trail. Two or three days' worth of poop from about 100 dogs can contribute enough bacteria to temporarily close a bay to swimming and shellfishing.
Horse poop is less harmful than dog poop
Horse manure generally does not have the same impact as dog poop. Horses are herbivores (eat grasses, plants). Their manure (in small amounts) is organic, biodegradable, and tends to dissolve quickly. Horse manure does not contain the contaminants, bacteria, and salts that dog poop does.
Protecting nature together in regional parks
As Metro Vancouver grows, there are fewer natural areas for wildlife. Regional parks provide habitat for many species – including those at risk. When you're in a regional park, you become part of the community that shares that park. By respecting park rules, you help protect the park community and keep it healthy.
Safety tips for you and your dog
Ensure both you and your dog have an enjoyable visit in regional parks. Here are a few tips: