Weather and seasons in Vancouver
Vancouver is mild by Canadian standards but very wet from autumn to spring, with frequent rain and the odd snowfall. Summers are generally dry and pleasant, though heat waves and wildfire smoke from elsewhere in the province have become more common.
Planning around the seasons
In the rainy season, a waterproof coat and a towel by the door make daily walks easier; ask your walker to dry your dog off before leaving.
In summer, watch for heat warnings and poor air quality, walk early and keep beach time to the cooler parts of the day.
Homes, buildings and access
Strata buildings often have rules on pet numbers and size, and many rentals restrict pets. Tell your provider about fobs, elevators, bike rooms and where to dry a wet dog.
Local rules worth knowing
The City of Vancouver requires dogs to be licensed, and dogs must be on a lead except in designated off-leash areas and beaches. Many beaches and park areas are off-limits to dogs, so check signs.
Getting around Vancouver with a pet
TransLink buses, SkyTrain and SeaBus generally allow only small pets in carriers. For larger dogs, a pet taxi is the simplest way to reach the vet, groomer or YVR.
Pet care in Vancouver โ FAQ
Does OnlyPaw work in Vancouver?
Yes. OnlyPaw is available worldwide, including Vancouver. 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 Vancouver?
Providers in Vancouver 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.
Which Vancouver beaches allow dogs?
Only designated dog beaches and off-leash areas, such as Spanish Banks and Hadden Park. Many other beaches do not allow dogs, so check the signs.
Can I take my dog on SkyTrain?
TransLink generally allows only small pets in carriers on its buses and trains. For larger dogs, book a pet taxi in the OnlyPaw app.
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.
