Dogs in Parks

Dogs are welcome in many of Sooke’s parks and trails. They’re part of our community and a big reason people enjoy spending time outdoors.

To keep these shared spaces safe, clean, and enjoyable for everyone, please follow these simple guidelines when visiting with your pet.

General Guidelines

• Keep your dog within sight and under control at all times.
• Clean up after your dog and dispose of waste in designated bins or take it home.
• Stay on designated trails and avoid environmentally sensitive or wildlife habitat areas.
• Avoid playgrounds, sports fields, and community gardens unless otherwise posted.
• Be courteous to other park users — not everyone is comfortable around dogs.

These practices help ensure our parks and trails remain safe and welcoming for everyone.

Regulations and Enforcement

The District of Sooke does not have a local dog regulation bylaw.

Animal control and enforcement services are provided through a contract with the Capital Regional District (CRD) Animal Care Services, which oversees dog licensing, impoundment, and regional animal regulation bylaws.

For more information on dog licensing, leash requirements, and enforcement:

• CRD Animal Care Services – Regulation & Bylaws

To report dog-related incidents, stray animals, or enforcement concerns:

• CRD Animal Care Services: 250-478-0624

Carter Navarrete (Off-Leash) Dog Park

Sooke’s off-leash dog park, Carter Navarrete Dog Park, is located at 2276 Church Road within the Pond’s Park Corridor.

This fenced park provides a safe, welcoming space for dogs to run and play off-leash. Amenities include:

• Pet and person water fountain
• Dog waste bags and garbage bin
• Boulders for agility play
• Benches for owners to rest

The park is situated along the Stickleback Urban Trail, offering convenient access for trail users.
Limited parking is available on Church Road, with additional parking at the District of Sooke Municipal Hall (approximately 600 metres away).

Visitors are encouraged to leash their dog and walk to the park where possible to keep nearby parking available for those with accessibility or mobility needs.

Please follow the posted park rules and be a good neighbour — helping to keep this space green, clean, and enjoyable for everyone.

Wildlife Awareness: Bears and Other Animals

Sooke’s natural setting means that wildlife, including bears, cougars, and deer, may be present in and around parks and trails — particularly during spring and fall.

To keep both pets and wildlife safe:

• Always keep dogs on a leash in wooded areas and near creeks or forest edges.
• Avoid walking dogs at dawn or dusk, when wildlife is most active.
• Make noise while walking to alert wildlife of your presence.
• Do not allow dogs to chase or bark at wildlife — this can provoke defensive behaviour.
• If you encounter a bear, stay calm, leash your dog immediately, and back away slowly.

By staying alert and leashing pets, we can help prevent conflict and protect the safety of people, pets, and wildlife alike.

Learn more about coexisting with wildlife:

• Coexisting with Wildlife

Protecting Nature and Wildlife

Sooke’s parks and trails are home to diverse wildlife and sensitive ecosystems. To help protect nature:

• Keep dogs leashed near shorelines, wetlands, and forest edges.
• Avoid allowing dogs to chase or disturb wildlife.
• Dispose of pet waste properly to protect waterways and vegetation.

Together, we can balance recreation with environmental care and respect for the land.