Dog sled rides at resorts and winter events

Resorts, ski hills, lodges and festival organizers who pay a fee or share revenue, plus the guests who pay for each ride.

A set fee or revenue share per day with the venue, or per-ride tickets sold directly. Private bookings for weddings, corporate groups and holiday events add income.

• Handling and transporting dogs safely
• Driving with a trailer in winter conditions
• Pitching to venues and event organizers
• Clear safety briefings for guests

• Animal welfare rules differ by province, and travelling dogs in cold weather needs careful checks with your vet and provincial regulator
• Commercial general liability insurance that venues will accept, and whether you need to name them on the policy
• Event and venue permits, and whether municipal rules cover animals at public events
• Bookings depend on snow, weather and a few partners, so have backup plans
• Vehicle and trailer insurance for towing dogs and gear
• In Quebec, check French-language requirements for any customer-facing material

Startup costs are estimated at typically around $15,000 to $70,000, depending on your dog team, sled, trailer, vehicle and insurance. Treat this as a rough estimate and price your own setup before committing.

Monthly revenue is estimated at typically around $2,000 to $10,000, depending on how many partner venues you secure, the snow and weather, and how many rides you sell. This is revenue, before costs such as dog care and vehicle expenses.

Check animal welfare rules in your province, including travelling dogs in cold weather, with your vet and regulator. Also check liability insurance venues will accept, event and venue permits, vehicle and trailer insurance, and French-language rules in Quebec.