Spring in Point Grey brings the return of longer walks, beach mornings, and forest hikes – and it is one of the most beautiful times of year to be a dog owner on Vancouver’s West Side. From Pacific Spirit Regional Park and the University Endowment Lands trails to Jericho Beach, Locarno Beach, Spanish Banks, and Tower Beach, Point Grey and UBC offer an extraordinary mix of forest, seaside, and neighbourhood routes. At University Veterinary Clinic, we want every Point Grey, Kitsilano, and Dunbar family to enjoy the season safely with their dog. Knowing the spring hazards ahead of time helps prevent avoidable injuries and urgent visits.

Coyotes in Pacific Spirit Park and Around UBC

Coyote activity is well established in Pacific Spirit Regional Park, the University Endowment Lands, and along the forested edges of Point Grey. Spring is denning season, when coyotes become more territorial while raising pups and can behave more boldly. They are most active at dawn and dusk but sightings during daylight hours are common. Keep your dog on a six-foot leash in Pacific Spirit Park and on UBC trails. Small dogs are particularly at risk and should never be off-leash or left unattended, even in fenced yards. If you encounter a coyote, stay calm, keep your dog close, make yourself appear large, and back away slowly. If your dog is injured by wildlife, contact University Veterinary Clinic at (604) 224-7743 during our open hours.

Tick Season on the West Side

Tick prevention for dogs is increasingly important on Vancouver’s West Side. Western blacklegged ticks are present in Pacific Spirit Regional Park, along the forested UBC pathways, and in adjacent wooded areas. Tick populations have been steadily expanding, and spring is peak activity season. After every outing, perform a thorough tick check focusing on the ears, around the eyes, under the collar, between the toes, and in the groin area. Year-round tick prevention is the most reliable protection. Dr. Bhullar, Dr. Ralh, and Dr. Clark can help you choose a product that suits your dog’s lifestyle and health profile.

Beach Safety at Jericho, Locarno, Spanish Banks, and Tower Beach

Point Grey and UBC are blessed with some of the best beaches in the city, but spring ocean conditions deserve attention. Cold water temperatures increase the risk of hypothermia even in strong swimmers. Saltwater ingestion is another concern: dogs who drink seawater while playing fetch can develop vomiting, diarrhea, and in severe cases salt toxicity. Bring plenty of fresh water for your dog and take frequent breaks from the water. Watch for sharp shells, driftwood hazards, and discarded fishing hooks in the sand. Tower Beach below the UBC cliffs can be especially tricky, with steep trails and slippery logs. Some West Side beaches are off-leash at certain hours only, so check the current Vancouver Park Board regulations before heading out.

Forest Puddles, Streams, and Leptospirosis

Spring rains and seasonal runoff create saturated ground, muddy trails, and standing water in Pacific Spirit Park. Leptospirosis bacteria can survive in puddles, slow-moving water, and moist soil, particularly where wildlife congregates. Keep your dog away from stagnant water on the trail and consider leptospirosis vaccination for dogs who spend time in forest parks. Ask our team whether this vaccine is appropriate for your dog’s lifestyle during your next wellness visit.

Reconditioning After the Rainy Season

After a wet Vancouver winter, many dogs are not in peak physical condition for longer hikes. Start with shorter walks through the quieter parts of Point Grey or along the flat beachfront before working up to longer Pacific Spirit Park loops. Watch for signs of fatigue, limping, or excessive panting. Pad injuries on gravel paths, rock cuts along the seawall, and soft tissue strains from overexertion are common spring concerns. Our team at University Veterinary Clinic offers wellness programs to keep your dog trail-ready throughout the spring and summer, including body condition scoring and nutrition counseling.

Q: Are coyotes really a concern in Pacific Spirit Park?

A: Yes. Coyotes are established in Pacific Spirit Regional Park, the University Endowment Lands, and around Point Grey. They become more territorial during spring denning season. Keep your dog leashed, especially at dawn and dusk, and never leave small dogs unattended even in fenced yards.

Q: Do I need tick prevention for my dog if we only walk on West Side beaches and streets?

A: Ticks are most common in wooded and grassy areas, but they can also be present along trails leading to West Side beaches and in Pacific Spirit Park. Year-round tick prevention is generally recommended for dogs who spend any time outdoors. Speak with our team about which option is suitable for your dog.

Q: Can my dog drink ocean water while playing at Jericho or Spanish Banks?

A: Saltwater ingestion can cause vomiting, diarrhea, and in severe cases salt toxicity. Always bring fresh drinking water to the beach and offer it frequently. Take breaks from water play and watch for signs that your dog may be ingesting seawater while retrieving toys.