See Spot Run

A lot has changed since the days of Dick and Jane and See Spot Run. Now time-crunched families often need help keeping their beloved Fido fit and fancy-free.

Ready to lend a helping hand (or should we say paw) is Sara Bartlett of Sweet Pea and Me Dog Adventures and Care. Her dog-walking and sitting services are perfect for pooches living on the city’s west side and downtown. No need to drop off or pick up—she does all the fetching.

New Sweet Pea canine clients are carefully screened for compatibility, and once they join the pack, Bartlett sends texts and posts pictures so you can feel confident your pooch is safe and sound. We love that all-natural products are used to clean the dogs, and a fresh-baked organic treat is provided at the end of every outing.

The ‘Beginners Luck’ package includes a free first walk and consultation, two group excursions ($35 for the beach and $45 for the hike) and 15% off your next package. They also offer monthly specials and deals for dogs living in the same block or building. Bartlett will even take your four-legged friend for an ‘outdoor day’ or an overnight in her home.

Equally savvy, but on a bigger scale is The Woof Dog Lounge and Spa. Centrally located in Burnaby, it’s a one-stop shop offering daycare, hikes, boarding and grooming. Owners Tony and Tanja Haller (savvy parents of two) fully understand the needs of busy moms.

We love their two-hour adventure hikes with pick-up and drop-off service to the North Shore, Burnaby and the city’s east-side. Rover gets a romp in the woods with five furry friends—you get errands or work done. Unique to this service is the doggie videos of every adventure they produce for you and your pet to enjoy. First-timers receive five two-hour hikes for $125.

Need doggie daycare? Rest assured, your pup will get plenty of exercise and stimulation playing in their 3000 square-foot indoor facility and 600 square-foot outdoor play area. Add-ons to the daily daycare rate include taxi service ($5 each way) and a one-hour walk ($8). You can also check grooming off the to-do list, but be sure to book ahead.

New to The Woof is on-site boarding (kind of like a giant sleepover), which is great for families on the go. Be sure to browse their store as well for the latest in doggy treats and gear.

A well-exercised dog is a calm, happy dog (not unlike our children). So not to worry, now fitting Fido into the family’s busy fall schedule is a fait accompli. Tested by Carolyn W., North Vancouver