Border crossing with Rottweiler and truck camper/hiking w/dog
 

Im retired and planning a couple months solo in Canadian Rockies (Aug & Sep) with my dog. Photography, sightseeing, hiking (with dog) & camping in Jasper, Lake Louise, Banff etc. Any tips on crossing the border with dog & camper? I read dogs are allowed on most trails in Canadian Parks-any one w/ firsthand experience?

you do need to be able to prove current rabies vaccinations.

Bring vaccination certificates for pets

Dogs and cats from the U.S. that are at least three months old need signed and dated certificates from a veterinarian verifying that they have been vaccinated against rabies within the last three years. The certificate must clearly identify the animal. If your dogs or cats are less than three months old, you do not need a certificate of rabies vaccination - however, the animals must be in good health when they arrive. Assistance dogs that are certified as guide, hearing or other service dog are not subject to any restrictions for importation where the person importing the dog is the user of the dog and accompanies the dog to Canada.

Just be sure to keep your dog on a leash and you should be fine. I have seen hikers with their pets, yes. In the more trafficked trails in the areas you mention, the only concern is probably dog poop. I have never witnessed any problems with doggie hikers.

There are a few areas (e.g., Skyline Trail in Cape Breton) where dogs are restricted or there is a concern due to wildlife, but it's not like U.S. National Park rules.

A couple of reference links:

http://www.hikewithyourdog.com/page1...1/page121.html

http://www.pc.gc.ca/pn-np/bc/glacier...sit5.aspx#pets

One more thing - I found a thread (now closed) that appears to have some good information on the areas you will be traveling: http://www.tripadvisor.com/ShowTopic...s_Alberta.html

If you venture into Provincial Parks, the rules are similar but not identical. Basically, dogs need to be on a 6-ft. or shorter leash, aren't allowed in swimming areas, etc. If your plans will take you that way, here are some more sources:

http://www.env.gov.bc.ca/bcparks/

http://www.albertaparks.ca/albertapa...gulations.aspx

Thank you sludick!!! Those links are very informative! Can hardly wait! Dogs are so welcome in Canada it's amazing! Wish the US parks were similar. In the US dogs can seldom go on trails or more than 30 feet of a paved road. How refreshing!