Frequently Asked Questions
WHO IS THIS CONFERENCE FOR?
The International Courthouse Dogs® Conference is designed for professionals working at the intersection of animal-assisted intervention and the justice system. This includes:
Active facility dog handlers working in law enforcement, prosecution, child advocacy, victim services, or other justice settings
Justice professionals and agencies actively pursuing or developing a Courthouse or Justice Facility Dog Program
Forensic interviewers, prosecutors, law enforcement officers, victim advocates, and multidisciplinary team members who work alongside facility dog programs
Researchers, educators, and organizational leaders working in the justice facility dog field
Please note: Conference content addresses sensitive subject matter related to trauma, abuse, and the criminal justice system. This conference is intended for professional audiences and is appropriate for attendees 18 years of age and older.
If you are unsure whether this conference is the right fit for you or your organization, please reach out to us at [email protected] before registering. We are happy to help ensure this is the experience you are looking for.
TICKETS & REGISTRATION
What ticket types are available?
Early Bird — $450 USDAvailable May 1 through June 30, 2026. Full conference access at our best available rate. We encourage you to register early — this rate will not last.
General Admission — $500 USDAvailable July 1, 2026 through the conference. Full two-day conference access including all general sessions, breakout sessions, meals, and the opening night reception.
ADI Member Rate — $440 USDAvailable to members of Assistance Dogs International (ADI) accredited organizations. This rate is self-reported at the time of registration. Available throughout the registration period.
VIP — $800USD Only 10 VIP tickets are available. Reserve yours early. This exclusive package includes:
Reserved front-row seating with views of the sea and sky throughout the conference
Private 30-minute meet and greet with our headliner speaker
Private VIP breakfast with Courthouse Dogs® Foundation leadership including our Conference Chairs, CEO, Co-Founder, and the Board of Directors
Exclusive Q&A session with a featured conference speaker
Two VIP drinks at the opening night reception
Curated welcome gift in room upon arrival
Courthouse Dogs Foundation exclusive swag bag with dog specific merchandise
A Premium room upgrade at the Coast Coal Harbour Hotel
A professionally conducted video interview capturing your story and your program's impact — preserved in the Courthouse Dogs® Foundation historical archive and used to advance the field you helped build.
Online/Virtual — $200 USDFor those unable to join us in person. Online ticket holders will receive access to a curated selection of recorded sessions through a password-protected portal following the conference. Recordings will be available for approximately three to four months post-event. Access details will be provided to registered online attendees after the conference concludes. Please note: the online ticket does not include live streaming or in-person access.
How do I register for the conference?
Registration is completed online. You will be asked to provide your contact information, organization details, dietary needs, and a few questions to help us personalize your experience. Upon completing registration you will receive a confirmation email with your registration details and hotel booking instructions.
What information will I need to complete registration?
Please have the following ready: Your name, title, and organization- work city, state/province, and country- Email address and mobile phone number- Dietary restrictions or allergies- Whether you are bringing your facility dog (and if so, their name and ADI organization)
What forms of payment are accepted?
Payment is processed securely through Stripe in USD. Major credit cards are accepted.
My organization requires an invoice to process payment. Can you provide one?
Yes — if your organization requires an invoice prior to or in lieu of online payment, please contact us at [email protected] and we will be happy to accommodate you.
Are registration fees refundable?
Registration fees are non-refundable. If your plans change, we encourage you to transfer your registration to a colleague at no additional cost. Please contact the Conference Team at [email protected] to arrange a transfer.
I haven't received my confirmation email. What should I do?Please check your spam or junk folder first. If you still cannot locate your confirmation, contact us at [email protected] and we will confirm your registration.
HOTEL & ACCOMMODATIONS
What is the conference hotel?
The Coast Coal Harbour Vancouver Hotel by APA is our designated host hotel, located in the heart of downtown Vancouver right on the water at the edge of Stanley Park. It is a spectacular setting and we cannot wait to welcome you there.
Address: 1180 West Hastings Street, Vancouver, BC V6E 4R5Phone: 604.697.0202Website: coasthotels.com
How do I book my hotel room at the conference rate?
Hotel booking instructions and your unique group link will be provided in your registration confirmation email. Our group rate is $249 CAD per night plus taxes. Rooms are limited — please book early.
The conference rate is also available three days before and three days after the event dates, subject to availability — a wonderful option if you would like to extend your stay and explore Vancouver.
What are the check-in and check-out times?
Check-in: 4:00 PMCheck-out: 12:00 Noon
Is parking available at the hotel?
Yes. Discounted overnight valet parking is available for conference attendees at $30 CAD per vehicle per night (including taxes).
Is Wi-Fi included?
Yes. Complimentary standard Wi-Fi is included in all guest rooms and conference spaces.
Are working dogs and facility dogs welcome at the hotel?
Absolutely — and we would not have it any other way. Accredited facility dogs attending the conference stay at no additional charge. This is a conference that celebrates the human-animal bond, and four-legged attendees are welcome. If you have any special accommodation requests for your dog, please note them during registration.
GETTING TO VANCOUVER
What is the nearest airport?
Vancouver International Airport (YVR) is approximately 20–30 minutes from downtown Vancouver, depending on traffic.
How do I get from the airport to the hotel?Several options are available:
1. Rideshare/Taxi: Readily available at YVR. Expect approximately $45–55 CAD each way to Coal Harbour.
2. SkyTrain (Canada Line): The most affordable and reliable option. Take the Canada Line from YVR directly to Waterfront Station in downtown Vancouver — approximately 25 minutes and $4–9 CAD depending on your fare zone. The hotel is a short walk or taxi ride from Waterfront Station.
3. Car Rental: Available at YVR through all major rental companies. Note that downtown Vancouver parking can be expensive — the hotel's discounted conference rate is a good option if you are driving.
4. Amtrak Cascades (from Seattle): A scenic and relaxed option for Pacific Northwest attendees. Daily service runs between Seattle and Vancouver (Pacific Central Station), taking approximately 4 hours. Note that the train is subject to border crossing wait times. Book in advance at amtrak.com.
CROSSING THE BORDER
Do I need a passport to enter Canada?
Yes. All attendees traveling to Canada from outside the country will need a valid passport. U.S. citizens must present a valid passport at the border. Attendees from other countries should verify entry requirements for Canadian travel well in advance, including whether a visa or Electronic Travel Authorization (eTA) is required. Visit canada.ca/immigration for guidance specific to your country of citizenship.
I am traveling with a facility dog. What do I need to know about crossing the border?
Entering Canada from the United States:- You must declare your dog at the border — this is mandatory.- A valid rabies vaccination certificate is required for dogs 3 months of age or older. The certificate must be signed by a licensed veterinarian and include the vaccine brand, lot number, and expiry date.- Your dog must appear healthy upon arrival.- Carry documentation of your dog's working/facility dog status.- Do not bring dog food across the border in large quantities. All food, including treats, must be declared at the border. We strongly recommend verifying current requirements with the CFIA and CBSA before you travel, as border regulations can change.
Returning to the United States:- Your dog must be at least 6 months old.- Your dog must be microchipped with a universally readable chip — confirm this before you travel.- You must complete the CDC Dog Import Form online before your return trip and carry the printed receipt or have it accessible on your phone. This form is valid for up to 6 months. Build extra time into your border crossing — dogs may occasionally be referred for secondary inspection.- If you are flying with your dog, confirm your airline's specific requirements well in advance, as policies vary.
CONFERENCE LOGISTICS
Where and when does the conference take place?
The 2026 International Courthouse Dogs® Conference takes place October 7–8, 2026 at the Coast Coal Harbour Vancouver Hotel by APA, 1180 West Hastings Street, Vancouver, BC.
What is the dress code?
Business casual is appropriate for all conference sessions. Vancouver in October is mild but can be rainy — we recommend layers and comfortable shoes, especially if you plan to explore the city or walk the seawall with your dog.
Are meals included?
Breakfast and Lunch both conference days are included as part of your conference registration. Please be sure to note any dietary restrictions or allergies during registration so we can accommodate if possible.
Will there be a conference app or schedule I can access?
Yes — the full conference schedule, session descriptions, and speaker information are available through SCHED. We recommend downloading the SCHED app for the best experience.
Will session recordings or slides be available after the conference?
Select sessions will be available through a password-protected online portal following the conference, for approximately three to four months post-event. Details will be shared with registered attendees after the conference concludes.
Is there a networking reception?
Yes — there will be a reception on October 5th for conference attendees to mingle. Details will be shared closer to the event. Keep an eye out in E-Mail and SCHED for updates.
ACCESSIBILITY & SPECIAL NEEDS
Is the venue wheelchair accessible?
Yes. The Coast Coal Harbour Hotel is fully accessible. If you have specific accessibility needs, please contact us at [email protected] in advance and we will do everything we can to ensure a comfortable experience.
Can I request special dietary accommodations?
Yes — please note any dietary restrictions or allergies during registration. We take these requests seriously and will work with the hotel to accommodate all needs.
Do you offer translation or interpretation services?
This conference is presented in English. If you require translation or interpretation services in another language, please note your needs during registration and we will do our best to accommodate you.
VANCOUVER IN OCTOBER
What is the weather like?
Early October in Vancouver is mild and beautiful — typically 50–60°F (10–15°C) with crisp air and occasional rain. Pack a light jacket and layers, and bring a compact umbrella or rain jacket. The hotel's waterfront location makes it especially lovely for an early morning walk along the seawall (with or without a dog).
What currency is used in Canada?
Canada uses the Canadian Dollar (CAD). Most businesses accept major credit cards. We recommend checking whether your credit card charges a foreign transaction fee before you travel — some cards waive these fees entirely.
Is the area walkable?
Very much so. The Coal Harbour neighborhood is one of Vancouver's most scenic and walkable areas. The hotel sits right on the seawall with Stanley Park just steps away. Downtown Vancouver, Gastown, and excellent restaurants are all within easy walking distance.
THINGS TO DO
Vancouver is a world-class city and early October is one of the most beautiful times to visit. We encourage you to arrive a day early or stay an extra day — you will not regret it.
Right at your doorstep:
Coal Harbour Seawall & Marina Step outside the hotel and you are on one of the most stunning urban waterfronts in the world. Float planes taking off, superyachts in the marina, and the North Shore mountains as your backdrop. Magical at sunrise with a dog at your side.
Canada Place A 10-minute walk from the hotel. Vancouver's iconic sail-roofed convention center and cruise ship terminal on the waterfront. Worth a stroll and a photo.
FlyOver Canada — at Canada Place A spectacular flight simulation ride over Canada's most breathtaking landscapes. Genuinely thrilling and a Vancouver must-do.
Vancouver Lookout Panoramic 360-degree views of the city, mountains, and ocean from the top of Harbour Centre. About a 15-minute walk from the hotel.
Robson Street Vancouver's main shopping and dining corridor — international restaurants, cafes, and boutiques. A great option for an evening out after sessions.
Coal Harbour Community Centre & Waterfront Park Right on the seawall — a lovely spot for a morning coffee run or an afternoon break with your dog.
A little further afield:
Stanley Park. Distance from hotel: 1.2 km. One of the world's great urban parks — 1,000 acres of forest, trails, and seawall. Consistently ranked the #1 park in the world by TripAdvisor.
Devonian Harbour Park Distance from hotel: 1.2 km. A beautiful waterfront park featuring an off-leash dog area — perfect for handlers and their dogs to decompress between sessions.
Nelson Park. Distance from hotel: 1.0 km. A popular local park, also featuring an off-leash dog
Granville Island. Distance from hotel: 4.3 km. A vibrant public market with outstanding restaurants, local shops, and an artisan scene. A Vancouver institution worth the short trip.Gastown Vancouver's oldest and most characterful neighborhood — cobblestone streets, the famous steam clock, excellent cocktail bars, and some of the city's best restaurants. About a 15-minute walk from the hotel and a perfect evening destination.
Capilano Suspension Bridge About 20 minutes from downtown. A dramatic suspension bridge crossing a rainforest canyon — stunning in fall foliage and genuinely thrilling.
Grouse Mountain Take the gondola up to sweeping panoramic views of Vancouver, the ocean, and the North Shore mountains. October is shoulder season so crowds are lighter — and the bears are still active before hibernation. A truly memorable experience.
Whale Watching with Prince of Whales October is a wonderful time for whale watching in the Salish Sea — humpbacks and orcas are active through November. Prince of Whales is Vancouver's premier whale watching operator, departing from Coal Harbour right near the hotel. An unforgettable experience and the perfect way to spend a free afternoon or morning.
CONTACT & SUPPORT
Who do I contact if I have questions?
We are here to help. For any questions about registration, logistics, hotel, travel, or anything else related to the conference, please reach out to us at: [email protected]
We look forward to seeing you — and your dog — in Vancouver in October. 🐾
