TELUS World Ski & Snowboard Festival

In Spite of the Rain, Whistler Dogfest Feels Warm and Fuzzy

It's a cold 7 a.m. start for the volunteers at the WSSF WAG Dogfest. Located at the Town Plaza, the walkway is being transformed into a doggie playground. Whistler is renowned for its welcoming community and a man's best friend is welcome too. I've always said that if I were to be reincarnated as an animal I'd come back as a Whistler dog, as they are truly loved here and today it shows.

Exhibition stands are popping up all down the street and banners are hung. In the centre are the "K9 Incredibles" who have an assault course to show off their agile doggie stars, the Canuck pugs, who are a favourite with the crowd. I have the job of bringing over the tunnels and jumps and as I set them up I think of the hard work and dedication of these people, to put in so much time and training with their animals with the added pressure of performing in front of crowds.

The music starts and things get going as the smell of burgers and hotdogs spread from the Whistler Grocery Store stand to make my mouth water. I wonder through the stalls and stop at "Canine Energy" where they are offering doggie DNA testing as well as tips on dog training from the experts.

I own a husky wolf cross called Yuki and as I lead her through the throng she bumps into French terrier pug mixes, sheep dogs, German sheppards, Bernese mountain dogs and so many more. The range of breeds is incredible and to have them all mingling without any major fuss is quite amazing. Dog owners crowd around the food stands; both "Raw Dog" and "Firstmate" are local producers with a passion for providing top quality goods. As they hand me dog treats they mention that their food can increase my dogs energy, however this ism’t an issue with Yuki who is pulling me in the other direction. She has fallen in love with dog that belongs to Whistler Dog Sledding. Who knew that girl dogs sometimes mount the boys to show them how to do it?

All donations go to WAG, our local shelter, and the volunteers man a booth full of information on what they're doing and what they're hoping to achieve. They rely heavily on community support and events like this not only generate cash but awareness as well. The crowd starts cheering again and I move over to have a look. "Absolute K-9" take the floor with their stunning black German shepherd, an amazing example of a well trained dog. Thee audience was rapt. Maybe some day we’ll get there Yuki…

The afternoon program included 'Best Dressed Dog and Owner' followed by a parade through the village. Last year my favourite was a dog dressed as the Incredible Hulk - hilarious! As Yuki has been patient for the last four hours I decide to call it a day but what remains with me is the passion people have for these animals and how our community comes together as a whole to provide help and support as needed. The feeling, as with the clientele, was warm and fuzzy today. -Dee Raffo