Our Story - The Wolf In Winter Way
Wolf In Winter began with a simple but ambitious vision: to create a place where dogs could experience true off-leash freedom in a safe, structured, and thoughtful way. For founder Curt, that vision grew from a lifelong connection to dogs. With more than 30 years of experience raising, training, working with, and learning from dogs — particularly sporting dogs — Curt developed a deep understanding of what dogs need to live well.
What began as a passion for working with dogs evolved into something more refined: a desire to create an environment where dogs could be developed, guided, fulfilled, and better understood. A farm-based experience where dogs could move freely, build better behaviour, practice appropriate social skills, and return home calmer, more balanced, and more fulfilled. At the time, the idea of private, structured off-leash adventures on fenced acreage had not been done in quite this way. Curt saw the need for something beyond traditional dog walking and conventional daycare — something more intentional, more enriching, and more aligned with the way dogs actually thrive. From the beginning, our adventures were designed around private land, professional handling, small compatible packs, and a higher standard of care.
As demand grew, so did our team. What began with one vision has developed into a dedicated group of 10 professional handlers, dog owners, grooming specialists, and pet care professionals who share the same standard of care. The success of Wolf In Winter has allowed us to attract exceptional people — individuals who are deeply committed to dogs, thoughtful in their handling, and proud to be part of a company that continues to raise the bar for canine care. That growth has also allowed us to expand the experience itself. Today, Wolf In Winter operates with five branded, climate-controlled vans, offering seamless door-to-door pick-up and drop-off for our clients. Every detail, from transportation to pack placement to handler guidance, is designed to feel smooth, reliable, and premium from beginning to end.
Our commitment to quality led us into product development.
After thousands of hours working hands-on with dogs, we saw that existing treat pouches did not meet the demands of daily professional use. Curt designed the QuickDraw® around our patented overlapping split-top, giving handlers fast, one-handed access while helping keep treats secure. What began as working gear for our own team has grown into a proven Original and XL product line, with tens of thousands sold. We also work with dog-training businesses, pet-care companies and established brands to produce custom-branded QuickDraw® pouches in their own colours and logos, including Standing Stone Kennels. It is practical, field-tested gear designed on Vancouver Island for people who work with dogs every day.
