When you decide to share your life with a pet, the decision includes the perhaps annoying habit of wanting to take it with you everywhere you go. Obviously, that would be the perfect scenario. Imagine, if you will, the IGA cashier with her gecko on her shoulder. Or a Persian cat enthroned on the dashboard of its master’s patrol car. But what about our faithful companion, the dog? There’s a long list of places where Fido is not welcome. So….where can you go with your best friend at your side in Greater Mont-Tremblant?

LODGING

You’ll be surprised to learn of the number of establishments that accept dogs within their walls. Hotels and chalets have their own rules on the size limit for your friend and may charge additional fees of up to $200 per night.

The Fairmont Tremblant imposes no weight restriction or additional fees, but you may not leave your animal alone in your room. There is, however, a dog-sitting service available to guests.

Le Grand Lodge opens its doors to dogs weighing less than 40 pounds in two rooms having a direct outdoor exit, and charges an additional $25 per night. You may walk your dog in the neighbouring woods. If you go out without your pal, you must leave your cell phone number at reception so that you can be called to return in the event of upsetting behaviour (on the part of the dog…).

In addition to providing its boarding service, Le domaine Summum is completely devoted to the happiness of its guests and offers all kinds of special treats to keep Fido happy: leash-free access to numerous trails, indoor play area, a platform on which to place Fido’s bed, grooming and even a gourmet menu specially prepared for a five-star supper.

Les refuges perchés of Saint-Faustin-Lac-Carré welcomes dogs in all its treehouse chalets. Located beside the CTEL (Laurentians Centre for Tourism and Education, which is unfortunately closed in winter), it offers an original kind of accommodation for you and your faithful companion.

TO WARM UP YOUR PAWS/FEET

Walking and hiking is probably the preferred activity of the owners of active dogs. Regrettably, some of Mont-Tremblant’s best places, like the parc national, the linear park and Domaine Saint-Bernard don’t allow dogs, and the Villageoise multifunctional trail is not open to dogs in winter. We have, however, identified some welcoming trails in the area.

Mont Éléphant (Lac-Supérieur): this 4.5 km loop has several spots from which to enjoy the view. While it is categorized as difficult, we have run across families with children on it. A shortcut is also available if you don’t have a lot of time. The access point is close to the junction of lac Supérieur and chemin Duplessis.

La montagne d’Argent (La Conception), however, was quite a challenge in its central section, but rewarded us with some exceptional views. Be careful, because the signage is occasionally somewhat lacking. Pay attention!

The area called la réserve naturelle of the parc régional Val-David/Val-Morin is well known, as it should be. Many wonderful hours can be spent there and the possibilities are almost endless.

La montagne Verte (Labelle), Le nid de l’aigle and the Mont Larose (Montcalm) and the trails between villages Par Monts and Vals also allow leashed dogs on their trails.

AND MORE

Kabo canin combines the useful with the enjoyable via its small-group hikes on private land. Karen, who is a specialist in dog behaviour and training, keeps a watchful eye on your dog’s actions so as to guide your pooch towards good social behaviour. Educational workshops are also available. .

Tandem sports attelés Mont-Tremblant (loosely, harnessed sports) offers an activity in which you and your dog achieve a high level of positive interactivity: the canicross. Kim Sinclair, who is passionate about this sport, will be sure to win you over to it. 819 681-1679 or facebook.com/tandemsportsattelesmt.

AND SOMETIMES, IF NECESSARY

They are dearly loved and part of the family but sometimes we simply have to turn them over, temporarily, to caring individuals.

L’auberge canine La Brégeoise (“dog inn”) is managed with great kindness by Steve and Claudia. Your pet will have fun with canine friends several times a day in a huge play area placed at their disposal. The supervised relaxation area is carefully set up and even features ambient music appropriate to calm and restoration. You’ll enjoy peace of mind and a happy pup. .

Being well aware that the majority of behaviour problems result from a lack of exercise, Scoubidous provides dog-walking services from their place or yours: 819 808-9518 

USEFUL LINKS

To wind things up, here are a few sites that will provide some direction, whatever your destination:

baliseqc.ca/hiver/recherche (sélectionnez « autres » et cochez le critère approprié).

partoutavecmonchien.com.

dogtrotter.tv.

Many active Mont-Tremblant families include a dog. Our town is, therefore, well positioned to become a destination for four-footed outdoorsy types. This client group eagerly awaits the opportunity-seeker who will fill this gaping market niche. The concept is now launched. Who will be the lucky one to take on the challenge?