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Spring in the Okanagan opens up some of the most beautiful walking and hiking terrain in British Columbia. From the switchbacks of Knox Mountain Park to the shaded paths along Mission Creek Greenway, Kelowna and its surrounding areas offer dogs and their owners a season of outdoor exploration. But warmer temperatures also bring seasonal hazards that every dog owner should understand before heading out.
At McCurdy Animal Hospital, we encourage outdoor activity for dogs it supports physical fitness, mental stimulation, and the bond between pets and their people. This guide covers the key risks that emerge on Okanagan trails in spring and what you can do to keep your dog safe while enjoying dog wellness in Kelowna families count on.
Tick Season Starts Earlier Than You Think
Ticks become active in British Columbia as soon as temperatures consistently reach 4°C or above. In the Okanagan Valley, this often happens by late March or early April. By the time trails around Knox Mountain, Dilworth Mountain, and Myra-Bellevue Provincial Park dry out enough for regular use, tick populations are already established in tall grass, leaf litter, and low brush.
The most common species in the Kelowna area is the Rocky Mountain wood tick, which can transmit Rocky Mountain spotted fever and, in rare cases, cause tick paralysis. Checking your dog thoroughly after every walk paying close attention to ears, armpits, the groin, and between toes is an essential habit. If you find a tick, remove it with fine-tipped tweezers, grasping as close to the skin as possible, and save it for identification if needed.
Year-round tick and parasite prevention is the most effective strategy. Talk to our team about the right preventive product for your dog’s size, age, and activity level.
Leptospirosis Risk Near Water
Kelowna’s lakes, creeks, and seasonal puddles create exposure points for leptospirosis, a bacterial infection spread through the urine of infected wildlife including raccoons, rats, and deer. Dogs that drink from standing water, wade through muddy areas, or explore the edges of Mission Creek or Mill Creek are at elevated risk.
Leptospirosis can cause fever, vomiting, muscle pain, and in severe cases, liver or kidney failure. It is also zoonotic, meaning it can spread from dogs to humans. Vaccination is available and is recommended for dogs that spend time outdoors in the Central Okanagan. If your dog is not currently vaccinated against leptospirosis, our team can discuss whether it is appropriate at your next visit.
Coyotes and Wildlife Encounters
The Kelowna area has a stable coyote population, and encounters increase in spring when coyotes are denning and defending territory. Trails near Munson Pond, Robert Lake, and the agricultural areas of Southeast Kelowna are particularly active zones. Coyotes are most active at dawn and dusk, but daytime sightings are not uncommon.
Keep your dog on a leash in areas where wildlife is present. Off-leash dogs can inadvertently provoke a coyote or pursue one into a confrontation. If you spot a coyote, make yourself appear large, make noise, and back away slowly without turning around. Carrying a walking stick, whistle, or air horn adds an extra layer of deterrence. Report aggressive coyote behaviour to the BC Conservation Officer Service.
Slug Bait and Garden Chemicals
As Kelowna gardens come back to life in spring, slug bait containing metaldehyde becomes a hidden danger on trails that border residential properties and community gardens. Dogs are attracted to the pellet form of many commercial slug baits because of their grain-based composition. Even a small amount of metaldehyde can cause tremors, seizures, and potentially fatal toxicity.
Stay on marked trails, keep your dog from snacking on unfamiliar items along the path, and be especially cautious near garden edges and compost areas. If your dog ingests something suspicious, bring a sample if possible and contact McCurdy Animal Hospital or your nearest urgent veterinary clinic immediately.
Heat, Hydration, and Paw Safety
Okanagan spring days can swing from cool mornings to warm afternoons. Dogs with thick coats, flat faces, or joint conditions may overheat faster than expected on sun-exposed trails. Bring fresh water and a collapsible bowl on every outing, take breaks in shaded areas, and avoid hiking during peak afternoon heat.
Gravel and rock surfaces on trails like those at Knox Mountain can become warm enough to irritate paw pads on sunny days. If the ground feels hot to the back of your hand, it is too hot for your dog’s feet. Consider early morning or evening hikes as temperatures climb toward summer, and inspect paw pads for cuts or cracks after each outing. Maintaining your dog’s overall fitness with regular wellness exams in Kelowna helps identify any underlying conditions that could affect trail readiness.
| FAQ — BLOG 2 |
Q: How often should I check my dog for ticks during spring?
A: After every outdoor walk or hike, perform a full-body tick check. Run your hands through your dog’s coat slowly, feeling for small bumps. Pay extra attention to warm, hidden areas such as the ears, belly, groin, and between the toes. Daily checks are recommended during peak tick season in the Okanagan.
Q: Is the leptospirosis vaccine necessary for all dogs in Kelowna?
A: The leptospirosis vaccine is particularly recommended for dogs that spend time outdoors near water, trails, or wildlife habitats. Dogs that primarily stay indoors may have a lower risk, but any dog that walks near creeks, ponds, or standing water in the Central Okanagan should be considered a candidate. Consult with our team for a personalized recommendation.
Q: What should I do if my dog eats something unknown on a trail?
A: Try to identify or collect a sample of what your dog ate. Contact McCurdy Animal Hospital at (778) 484-9446 during business hours or your nearest emergency clinic after hours. Early intervention improves outcomes for most toxin exposures. Do not induce vomiting unless directed by a veterinarian.
Q: Are there off-leash parks in Kelowna that are safer for dogs in spring?
A: Designated off-leash areas such as Ben Lee Park and Kopje Regional Park offer fenced or semi-enclosed spaces where dogs can exercise with somewhat reduced wildlife risk. However, tick prevention and supervision remain important in any outdoor setting. Always check park advisories for seasonal closures or wildlife warnings.
| Keep your dog trail-ready this spring. Book a wellness check at McCurdy Animal Hospital. Call (778) 484-9446 or visit mahvet.ca/book-an-appointment/ Open Monday–Friday 8 AM – 8 PM | Saturday–Sunday 9 AM – 5 PM |
Published by the team at McCurdy Animal Hospital.
| This article is for general educational purposes only and does not constitute veterinary advice. Always consult a licensed veterinarian before making decisions about your pet’s health. If you have concerns, contact McCurdy Animal Hospital at (778) 484-9446. |