West Vancouver bylaw officers will be hitting the parks this summer with pockets full of dog treats, rewarding owners who play by the rules.
Starting this May, officers conducting proactive park patrols will hand out free baked treats to dog owners who meet a checklist of responsible ownership requirements. According to the news release, to qualify, owners must be West Vancouver residents with an active dog licence and visible tag, have their dog on a leash in a dog-permitted area, and carry poop bags.
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The treats themselves are handmade in Burnaby by Big Dog Little Dog Bakery. They are wheat-free, meat-free, and preservative-free, made with oat flour, rolled oats, cheddar and parmesan cheese, olive oil, and honey.
A lucky few may walk away with more than a snack as a limited number of “golden biscuits” will be randomly distributed, and any dog owner who receives one will also get a free 2027 dog licence.
According to the news release, the program first launched in 2025 and was followed by an increase in dog licence applications. It also helped foster more positive interactions between bylaw officers and park visitors, while creating openings to discuss licensing rules, leash requirements, and responsible pet ownership.
The initiative runs throughout the summer, while supplies last. Officers and dog owners alike are reminded that dogs are not permitted on beaches, playgrounds, or school or sports fields, and owners should check posted signage before entering any park.
West Vancouver requires all dogs older than six months to hold a municipal licence and wear the corresponding tag — a measure the news release says allows officers to quickly identify a dog in an emergency and work toward a swift reunion with its owner.
