The holiday season in metro Vancouver — from festive light walks to cozy café outings — offers plenty of ways to include your pets. Planning a few pet-friendly outings is a great way to enjoy winter together, boost your pet’s mental and physical wellness (and yours), and make memories you’ll cherish.

Here are nine holiday-friendly activities around Vancouver and Surrey, plus a few helpful tips from the vet team to keep your pets safe and happy.

1. Wander Through the Holiday Light Displays *

A stroll under holiday lights can be magical — for you and your pup. Here are just a few options:

• VanDusen Festival of Lights (Vancouver): Dogs are welcome on leash in outdoor areas on designated “Pet Nights” (check the website for 2025 dates).
• Christmas at Canada Place (Vancouver): Explore the outdoor light displays and décor along the waterfront promenade.
• Bear Creek Park Lights (Surrey): A magical winter walk with twinkling displays; leashed dogs are welcome.

Vet tip: Winter walking means slippery surfaces and salt or grit. A reflective vest, shortened leash, and booties can go a long way. After your walk, check paws for ice, cuts, or licking that might indicate irritation.

2. Visit a Pet-Friendly Holiday Market or Seasonal Event

If your pet enjoys new scents and mild bustle, this can be a fun option — with a few caveats.

• Pet Photos with Santa: Many local pet stores and clinics offer holiday photo sessions, with proceeds often supporting charities.
• Outdoor Holiday Markets: Look for smaller outdoor or community markets that allow pets.
• BC SPCA Events: Participate in seasonal fundraisers, walks, or donation drives.

Vet tip: Crowds, noise, and smells can be overstimulating. Bring a comfort item, maintain a calm pace, and don’t hesitate to exit early if your pet shows signs of stress.

3. Find a Cozy, Pet-Friendly Café or Eatery

When the weather turns chilly, a warm drink and a dog-friendly patio or indoor pet cafe are just the thing. Luckily, the Vancouver/Surrey area has plenty of options.

Vet tip: It’s tempting to share snacks, but many human treats are unsafe for pets (like chocolate, grapes, onions, or xylitol-sweetened desserts). Stick to pet-friendly snacks — many of these cafés offer them — or bring your own.

4. Go for a Holiday Hike or Snow Adventure *

If pets are part of your outdoor lifestyle, winter hikes can be refreshing and joyful. Here are just a few:

• Mount Seymour Provincial Park (North Vancouver): Leashed dogs can join you on designated snowshoe trails.
• Spanish Banks Beach (Vancouver): A great spot for a winter walk along the water.
• Tynehead Regional Park (Surrey): Features a 6-acre off-leash area and scenic walking trails.

Vet tip: Check trail conditions, use reflective gear for dusk walks, and consider booties or jackets for sensitive pups.

5. Host a Pet-Friendly Holiday Gathering

If you’re inviting friends or family over, why not make the event pet-inclusive?

• Set up a treat station with homemade or safe store-bought holiday goodies.
• Hold a “Best-Dressed Pet” contest — holiday sweaters, bandanas, or festive collars are always photo-worthy.
• Organize some easy indoor games or puzzle stations.
• Offer a quiet retreat area if pets get overwhelmed.

Vet tip: Keep toxic foods (like chocolate, grapes, or onions), decorations, and alcohol out of reach. If your pet ingests something dangerous, contact us right away.

6. Pamper Your Pet with a Holiday Spa Day

Grooming is often overlooked during winter but can be a wonderful treat.

• Local groomers in Surrey and the metro Vancouver area often offer special packages for the season.
• At home, give your pet a warm bath, gentle brushing, paw moisturizers, and a cozy towel or blanket afterward.

Vet tip: Winter dryness can irritate skin — consult your vet before trying new grooming products if your pet has sensitivities.

7. Give Back to the Pet Community

The holidays are a wonderful time to share joy with other animals and the people who care for them.

• Volunteer with HERO DAWGS, an Indigenous-founded nonprofit providing therapy dog support.
• Donate toys, food, or supplies to the BC SPCA or the Surrey Animal Resource Centre.
• Support SAINTS Rescue, a sanctuary for senior and special-needs animals.
• Participate in local holiday pet food drives.

Vet tip: Giving back is rewarding, but make sure activities are safe and suitable for your pet’s temperament.

8. Fit a Wellness Check into Your Holiday Plan

The holidays are busy, but it’s also a good time to check your pet’s health.

• Schedule routine exams early — clinics may close during the holidays.
• Ensure your pet’s ID tags and microchip are up to date if you’re traveling.
• Book a wellness consultation to address issues before the new year.

9. Consider Pet Blood Donation as a Holiday Gift

Giving doesn’t always mean unwrapping a present — sometimes it means saving another pet’s life.

• Our Blood Donation Program helps supply life-saving blood for pets in critical need.
• Donor pets receive complimentary annual bloodwork and health monitoring.
• The process is quick, minimally invasive, and makes your pet a hero for others in crisis.

Final Thoughts

Vancouver and Surrey are full of pet-friendly holiday magic — from twinkling lights and cozy cafés to giving back through community causes. With a little planning, you and your furry friend can make the most of the season together.

And remember, if you need us, Boundary Bay Veterinary Specialty and Emergency Hospital in Surrey is open 24/7/365. As a certified VECCS Level I facility and a Level II VetCOT Trauma Centre, we are capable of handling even the most critical, life-threatening emergencies and trauma, with specialists on staff and on-call to handle any medical or surgical issue your pet may be experiencing. Visit our Emergencies page or call us at (604) 514-8383. We’re conveniently located just off Highway #1, at the SFPR (Hwy #17) – just 30 minutes from anywhere in the Vancouver area.

Happy Holidays to you and your four-legged family members!

*Disclaimer: The businesses and events mentioned in this blog are provided for informational purposes only. Boundary Bay Veterinary Specialty Hospital does not endorse or recommend any specific business or service. Links are included to make it easier for readers to find more information, but pet owners are encouraged to verify details and ensure suitability for their own pets before visiting.