Text by Mary Peachin, photos by Samuel Zambon Alves
Vol. 25/26, September/October 2022
Samuel Zambon Alves migrated from Brazil in 2018. Working as a mechanical engineer, his true passion was a love for dogs. He decided to make a big leap to pursue that happiness by working with dogs. His transition from engineering to becoming an entrepreneur was one of making dog owners happy while achieving his own happiness. The result was the creation of Indiana Bones, a company that provided off lease trail hiking for dogs.
His two leaders, Jeremy and Nick, pick up 6 dogs in the morning, return them, and repeated the hike and delivery for six additional dogs in the afternoon. Indiana Bones has the ability to provide this wonderful, healthy service to 120 dogs each week.
Not just any dog, but non- aggressive dogs who will instinctually stay with the pack. Yes, Sam does a ” meet and greet” with each prospective client.
After identifying several supervised trails, monitored for wildlife (black bears,) Samuel decided to use West Vancouver’s Brother’s Creek Loop.
The quiet, scenic trail, located across Lions Gate bridge from Vancouver, several street trailheads provide the option to shorten or extend the journey. The trail’s many forks allow his guides to decide which one will make the adventure better. It’s as simple as taking the right fork at each split to follow Brother’s Creek. Well-marked with points of interest, the offshoots are equally enjoyable.
Covered by canopy, but not super dense, the trail is a good route for staying cool during hot summer days. Beautiful flowers and plentiful berry bushes line the trail.
Brother’s Creek, an out-and-back trail, makes it ideal for Indiana Bones.
Sam feels that Brother’s Creek trail is also safer because it provides a good view of the dogs leading the pack. Its many creeks and shade provide the dogs with a better experience.
Brother’s Creek trail doesn’t have cyclists and trail joggers which makes it easier to manage the dogs.
Lucky Lewie, he gets his exercise, and shares this experience with new buddies.