Dogs allowed to follow owners around at Alberta golf course

You can now play along sideyour pup at theWoodside Golf Course in Airdrie, Alta.

Every Sunday afternoon, pet owners are allowedtobring fidoon the fairwayfor theround.

"We did some research and found that in Europe, about 50 per cent golf courses actually allow dogs on them," said Woodsideexecutive directorChris McNicol.

• Dog keeps golf course goose and squirrel free

He believes the only other course inCanada offering this pet program isPredator Ridgein Vernon, B.C.

But don't bother training your pooch to fetch golf balls off the fairway.All dogs must be kept on a leash at all times.

"We do have wildlife on the golf course, we don't want to have a bad interaction that way."

McNichol says he ties his black lab, Franklin, to agolf cart.

"He sits while I hit my shot."

The only other rule is you have to clean up after your furry friend.Doggie poo bags are availableat the pro shop, on the first tee,on the 10th tee, and even fromthe beverage cart.

McNichol says golfing with your dog is also agreat time saver.

"It can take four or five hours to play a round and so pet owners go home and they're exhausted and their best friend doesn't get a walk. At least this way, you're killing two birds with one stone."

Golfers can bring their dogs onthe courseSundays after 4 p.m. at no extra cost.