The Wolf Dog of Fish Creek

The Wolf Dog of Fish Creek

Hey Calgary friends, I’ve got a little story for you today—something that happened to me last weekend at Fish Creek Provincial Park. It’s a reminder of how a walk in nature can teach us to slow down and connect, even in our busy lives here in the city.

I was feeling a bit overwhelmed with work and the usual Calgary hustle—spring is always busy, right? So, I decided to take a break and head to Fish Creek for a walk. The park was buzzing with families, dog walkers, and the sound of the Bow River rushing nearby. I found a quiet trail near Sikome Lake, hoping to clear my head.

As I walked, I noticed a man sitting on a bench with a dog that stopped me in my tracks. This wasn’t your typical Calgary pup—it looked like a wolf, with a thick white coat, golden eyes, and a presence that made you feel like you were in the presence of something ancient. I couldn’t help but think of my old white shepherd, Udik, who had those same golden eyes and a fierce, protective spirit.

I must’ve been staring because the man looked up and smiled. “His name’s Koda,” he said, patting the dog’s head. “He’s a white shepherd, but everyone thinks he’s a wolf. Want to say hi?”

I hesitated—Koda looked intimidating, just like Udik did when the RCMP wouldn’t get out of their car all those years ago. But I remembered how gentle Udik was with me, so I nodded. I sat on the bench, keeping my movements slow, and Koda tilted his head, watching me with those piercing eyes. Then, to my surprise, he rested his head on my knee, letting out a soft whine. It was like he knew I needed a friend.

The man, who introduced himself as Tom, told me he comes to Fish Creek every weekend with Koda. “He loves the trails,” Tom said. “But he also reminds me to slow down. When I’m with him, I notice things—the way the river sparkles, the deer tracks in the mud, the way the wind smells like pine. Koda’s my reset button.”

We talked for a while, and I learned Tom was a regular at the park, often joining the Friends of Fish Creek group for their community walks. He invited me to join one, saying, “It’s a great way to meet people and give back to the park. Plus, Koda loves the extra attention.”

As I walked back to my car, I felt lighter than I had in weeks. Koda’s wolf-like presence had reminded me of Udik, but more than that, he’d reminded me to pause and connect—with nature, with others, with myself. I signed up for the Friends of Fish Creek walk the next day, and I’m already looking forward to it.

So, my Calgary friends, here’s my little takeaway: next time you’re feeling overwhelmed, take a walk in Fish Creek or your favorite park. Look for the magic in the little things—the river, the wildlife, maybe even a wolf-like dog who’ll steal your heart. And if you see Tom and Koda, say hi for me—they might just be the reset you need.

Until next time,
KassDays