Police on Vancouver Island are asking for the public's help in locating a father and son believed to be travelling in Washington State.

Mounties in West Shore, near Victoria, say Ian McFadden, 35, and his nine-year-old son James entered the United States through the Blaine border crossing early Saturday morning.

Police say the pair travelled in a Canadian taxi to Seattle, where they hired a local cab. Police say the destination of that taxi is not known.

Police have released very little information, but say they "have concerns for the well-being of the child" based on "information received from people familiar with the pair." Police stressed that McFadden is the child's legal guardian.

"Out of an abundance of caution, we want to connect with Ian and James, and ensure that they are safe," RCMP Cpl. Darren Lagan said in a written release.

"We are asking our neighbours to the south to assist us in locating Ian and James, and ask that they pass along any information they may have, to their local police."

McFadden is described being about five feet eight inches tall and weighing around 150 pounds. He has a medium complexion, short brown hair and brown eyes. He was wearing a light brown suit and a black fedora.

James is described as having a medium complexion, short brown hair and brown eyes. He was last seen wearing khaki shorts, a black sweatshirt, and possibly a black and white hat.

Anyone with information is asked to contact their local police department.