As spring arrives in Surrey, dog owners across Cloverdale, Clayton, Sullivan, and Panorama Ridge are eager to get back outdoors with their companions. From the wooded trails at Tynehead Regional Park to Surrey Bend Regional Park along the Fraser River, Green Timbers Urban Forest, and Bear Creek Park, there is no shortage of beautiful places to explore. However, spring outings also come with seasonal hazards. At Apollo Animal Hospital, Dr. Sood and the team want to help you and your dog enjoy the season safely.

Coyote Awareness in Surrey

Coyote encounters are a significant concern in Surrey, particularly during spring denning season when coyotes become more territorial while raising pups. The agricultural edges of Cloverdale, the wooded corridors along the Serpentine River at Tynehead, and the green spaces around Sullivan all see regular coyote activity. Keep your dog leashed on all trails, especially at dawn and dusk when coyotes are most active. If you encounter a coyote, stay calm, keep your dog close, make yourself appear large, and back away slowly without running. If your dog is bitten or scratched, contact Apollo Animal Hospital at (604) 372-4411 for same-day urgent care.

Tick Prevention in the Fraser Valley

Tick prevention for dogs becomes essential as soon as temperatures consistently reach around 4 degrees Celsius. The western blacklegged tick (Ixodes pacificus), which can carry Lyme disease, is present in the Fraser Valley. Dogs who visit wooded areas, trails with underbrush, and parks with tall grass – including the forested sections of Tynehead, the riverside trails at Surrey Bend, and the dense canopy at Green Timbers – are at particular risk. After every outing, perform a thorough tick check focusing on the ears, around the eyes, under the collar, between the toes, and the groin area.

Leptospirosis and Standing Water

Spring rain creates puddles and standing water in parks, along trails, and in low-lying areas throughout Surrey. These water sources can harbour leptospirosis bacteria – a serious infection that affects both dogs and humans. The Serpentine River watershed at Tynehead, the Fraser River edges at Surrey Bend, and the agricultural ditches near Cloverdale all create conditions where this bacterium thrives. Dogs who drink from puddles, streams, or areas frequented by wildlife are at higher risk. Leptospirosis vaccination is recommended for dogs who spend time outdoors. Ask Dr. Sood about adding this to your dog’s preventive plan during your next visit.

Reconditioning After Winter

After a quieter winter, many dogs are not in peak physical condition for longer outings. Start with shorter walks along the flat paths at Bear Creek Park or the paved sections of the Tynehead perimeter trail and gradually increase distance and intensity over several weeks. Watch for signs of fatigue, limping, or excessive panting. Pad injuries and muscle strains from overexertion are common spring visits that can be avoided with gradual reconditioning. If your dog shows persistent discomfort, schedule a check-up before continuing longer outings.

Trail-Ready Checklist for Your Dog

Before heading out to Tynehead, Surrey Bend, Green Timbers, or Bear Creek Park, make sure your dog is prepared. Confirm that vaccinations are current – particularly rabies, distemper-parvovirus, and leptospirosis. Ensure flea and tick prevention is up to date. Pack fresh water, a collapsible bowl, waste bags, and a basic first-aid kit with tweezers for tick removal. If your dog is microchipped, verify that your contact details are current. Apollo Animal Hospital offers wellness programs including vaccination updates, parasite prevention, and health assessments. Our extended hours – open until 10 PM every day – make it easy to fit in a visit even after a long day on the trails.

Advanced Diagnostics for Trail Injuries

If your dog sustains an injury on the trail – a limp, a cut, or an encounter with wildlife – Apollo Animal Hospital’s in-house diagnostic suite includes digital X-ray, ultrasonography, the IDEXX Catalyst One for rapid bloodwork, and in-house cytology. Same-day assessment is available seven days a week with walk-ins welcome for urgent cases. Call us at (604) 372-4411 so our team can prepare for your arrival.

Getting your dog trail-ready this spring in Surrey? Call Apollo Animal Hospital at (604) 372-4411. Open 8 AM to 10 PM, 7 days a week – walk-ins welcome for urgent care.

FAQ

Q: When does tick season start in the Surrey area?

A: Ticks become active when temperatures consistently reach around 4 degrees Celsius, which can happen as early as late February in the Fraser Valley. Starting tick prevention before your first spring outing is recommended.

Q: Is leptospirosis a risk for dogs in Surrey parks?

A: Yes. Leptospirosis bacteria thrive in standing water and moist soil, especially during spring rain. Dogs who visit parks with water features, rivers, or puddles – such as Tynehead and Surrey Bend – should be vaccinated. Ask Dr. Sood about adding this to your dog’s preventive plan.

Q: What should I do if my dog encounters a coyote on a Surrey trail?

A: Keep your dog leashed and calmly move away from the coyote. Do not run. Make yourself appear large and make noise if the coyote approaches. If your dog is bitten or scratched, contact Apollo Animal Hospital at (604) 372-4411 for same-day assessment – we are open until 10 PM daily.

This article is for general educational purposes only and does not constitute veterinary advice. Always consult a licensed veterinarian before making decisions about your pet’s health. If you have concerns, contact Apollo Animal Hospital at (604) 372-4411.