Weather and seasons in Toronto
Toronto winters are cold, with snow, freezing rain and heavily salted sidewalks; summers are warm and often humid. Spring brings slush and mud, and the lake keeps the waterfront cooler in summer.
Planning around the seasons
In winter, shorten walks on the coldest days, use a coat and booties for small or short-coated dogs and wipe salt off paws.
In humid summer weather, walk early or late and use the lakefront and shaded parks to keep dogs cool.
Homes, buildings and access
Condo buildings often have pet limits and rules about elevators, and some ask dogs to be carried in common areas. Tell your provider about fob access, concierge and visitor parking.
Local rules worth knowing
The City of Toronto requires dogs and cats to be licensed, and dogs must be on a lead in public except in designated off-leash areas. Pick up after your dog everywhere.
Getting around Toronto with a pet
The TTC has its own rules on when and how pets can ride, so check before you travel with a dog. Many owners use a car or a pet taxi for vet visits, groomers and trips to Pearson.
Pet care in Toronto โ FAQ
Does OnlyPaw work in Toronto?
Yes. OnlyPaw is available worldwide, including Toronto. Because it's a marketplace, the providers you can book depend on who has been approved near your address โ the app shows who's available before you pay.
How much does pet care cost in Toronto?
Providers in Toronto set their own prices, so you see each provider's rate in the app before you book. At checkout OnlyPaw adds a service fee of 10% of the service price, with a minimum of USD 2 and a maximum of USD 20 (or the equivalent in your local currency), shown before you pay. Your payment is held and only released to the provider after the service is completed.
Do I need a licence for my dog in Toronto?
Yes. The City of Toronto requires dogs and cats to be licensed. Providers may ask about vaccinations before the first booking, so keep the records handy.
Where can my dog be off-leash in Toronto?
Only in designated off-leash areas in city parks, such as those in High Park, Trinity Bellwoods and Cherry Beach. Everywhere else dogs must be on a lead.
How are providers vetted?
Every provider submits a government ID and a selfie, passes a knowledge test with a 70% pass mark and uploads service-specific documents โ home photos for sitting and boarding, driving licence and vehicle registration for pet taxi, certificates for grooming and training โ before the OnlyPaw team approves them.
What happens in an emergency?
Every active booking has an SOS button in the app. It alerts the other party and the OnlyPaw team straight away. If your pet needs urgent medical care, contact a vet or emergency clinic first.
