If you travel to Vancouver with your dog, be sure and visit the Woofles and Meowz Pet Store on Granville Island. You cannot miss this store as it is in a red caboose just outside the Kid’s Market. Darren Monette, one of the owners, said they make organic treats from grains, vegetables, and other items grown locally. These treats are made in small batches so they are always fresh.

According to Monette, visitors will find Vancouver a very dog friendly city. It is also very walker friendly, so it is safe to walk with your dog whenever you need to take him out. Please pick up the poop so that things stay dog friendly. Be aware that dogs are not allowed on public transportation, so you must either walk or take private transportation to reach your destination. The Olympic venues are also off limits to dogs, so plan accordingly.

One of the items Monette carries is a life preserver that fits around the dog similar to a diving vest fits around a human. The water in Vancouver is very cold in the winter, especially the ocean, and dogs quickly become too cold to swim and will drown. Because there is a strong undertow around Vancouver, it is best to keep your dog out of the water entirely.

The Fairmont Hotels allow dogs with a surcharge and are generally very friendly. Two of them have resident dogs that guests are allowed to walk while there. Guests should take care not to leave their dogs loose and unattended in their hotel rooms in order to prevent any problems.

Dogs are not allowed in stores, unless they are pet supply stores. While in Dallas dogs are sometimes allowed to dine on restaurant patios with their owners, that is against the rules in Vancouver. The dog can sit outside the railing around the dining area and wait while you eat, however.

Finally, while Monette carries food, clothing, and treats, he is sure to be busier than normal during the Olympics. If your dog eats a special diet, contacting Woofles and Meowz soon and ordering it would be prudent. It would be more cost effective to buy dog food from Monette than to pay excess baggage charges on the plane, regardless of your dog's diet.