Park City Ski Patrol negotiations go to the dogs

'We have a tentative agreement on the dog article,' she said. 'Our negotiators were really intentional and careful to make sure the four-legged members of our team were getting fair representation and that their handlers were getting the necessary support to raise, train, and maintain these incredible search tools.'

PARK CITY, Utah — As the Park City Professional Ski Patrol Association (PCPSPA) strike continues, the impact is being felt not only by its human members but also by the avalanche dogs that serve as critical partners on the mountain. These four-legged team members are not only adjusting to life off the slopes but are also central to ongoing contract negotiations with Vail Resorts.

“We have nine avalanche dogs currently on strike, including our newest puppy, Renny,” said Julia McCarrier Edwards, a 14-year ski patroller and avalanche dog handler.

“Our dog program is part of our contract,” Edwards added. “It is its own article, and it stipulates things like the selection process for handlers, the dogs’ benefits—which in this case include food and vet bills—and language allowing handlers to participate in educational opportunities.”

Edwards’ dog, Piper, a nine-year-old who has been part of the team since she was six months old, is among the avalanche dogs impacted by the strike. “For most of our dogs, they’ve been coming to the resort most days each winter for their whole lives,” Edwards explained. “They thrive on routine, and this disruption has definitely left them a little stir crazy.”

A Tentative Agreement for the Dogs

Despite the ongoing dispute over wages and benefits, Edwards noted progress in securing an agreement on the avalanche dog program. “We have a tentative agreement on the dog article,” she said. “Our negotiators were really intentional and careful to make sure the four-legged members of our team were getting fair representation and that their handlers were getting the necessary support to raise, train, and maintain these incredible search tools.”

The avalanche dogs’ training process begins early, often at just 12 weeks old, when handlers play hide-and-seek with them. This foundational game evolves into complex drills, including digging through snow and searching for human scent. “Our dogs are trained to detect generalized human odor, not specific individuals,” Edwards said. “Whether it’s a person, a backpack, or clothing with human scent, they alert us to anything they find.”

Keeping Skills Sharp During the Strike

While the strike has halted their regular work, handlers are committed to maintaining the dogs’ training and well-being. “We’ve gotten together to do obedience practice and some search drills,” Edwards said. “It gives the dogs a training outlet and a sense of community with their fellow avalanche dogs.”

Piper has even joined the picket line, though the change in routine has left her confused. “She loves seeing her coworkers, both human and canine alike, but there’s definitely a sense of ‘What are we doing here?’” Edwards said.

Supporting the Dogs and Their Handlers

Edwards highlighted ways the community can support the avalanche dogs and their handlers during the strike. “Folks can support the avalanche dogs by respectfully writing to Bill Rock and Kirsten Lynch to say Vail needs to offer a fair deal for ski patrol and mountain safety staff,” Edwards said. “Or by donating to our strike fund so our avy dogs’ handlers can pay their rent and keep the treats in the budget.”

A Call for Fair Representation

Edwards emphasized the importance of the avalanche dogs in both their role on the mountain and their place in negotiations. “These dogs are incredible search tools and an essential part of our team,” she said. “We want Vail Resorts to recognize that we’re all on the same side. We want to provide an excellent guest experience, maintain high safety standards, and be amazing partners for the company.”

The ski patrol and their dogs are eager to return to work but remain steadfast in their fight for a fair contract. “We just need Vail to meet us where we are,” Edwards said. “We’re so grateful for the immense community support for our union and for the avalanche dogs. We couldn’t do this without them.”