Traveling can be stressful for pets and people, but Charleston is as dog friendly as it comes. With all of the outdoor dining, walkable shopping and sightseeing, plus countless beaches and parks, it’s no surprise that Charleston SC was voted “Best City for Pet Travelers” by GoPetFriendly.com (2016).
If you’re planning a Charleston vacation and wonder if you should bring your dog, we’ve put together some tips to help you and your furry friends have the best vacation possible.
Talk to your Vet
Before you go, double check with your vet to make sure that your dog is current on all vaccines and is healthy and fit to travel. It’s also a great opportunity to talk to them about remedies for motion sickness, restlessness, and general anxiety – especially if this is your dog’s first time traveling and you’re not sure how they’ll do.
Packing Your Pet’s Bags
Just like you, we’re sure your dog has a few things they will need while they’re away from their home turf. Some of the essentials to remember:
1. Vaccination records; medications, vitamins, and supplements
2. Collar with tags and current contact info, leash; waste baggies
3. Food and treats, portable water and feeding container
4. Your dog’s bed; TOYS, TOYS, TOYS!
5. TIP: Bring an old towel to dry off after swimming in the ocean or after a good rain.
We Welcome Your Dogs!
We know dogs are just another member of the family and for that reason, we are happy to welcome your four-legged family member! Between downtown and Folly Beach, we have a plenty of options within our portfolio of luxury vacation rentals that allow dogs – just look for the paw print on any of our listings!
From the historic downtown peninsula, to the beaches along Charleston’s barrier islands, no matter where you choose for your vacation getaway to Charleston, we have just the place for your dog to enjoy hanging out with the family.
Downtown Charleston
Folly Beach
Isle of Palms
Palmetto Bluff
If you’re looking for a luxurious stay within the gates of the Palmetto Bluff Resort located in Bluffton, SC, you can find some incredible pet-friendly homes there too! This luxurious 20,000 acre resort, located just a short distance from the history and allure of Savannah, greets you with a scene straight out of a Southern fairy tale. From the charm and Spanish moss-draped live oaks of the iconic riverfront neighborhood of Wilson Village, to the serene tidal creels that wind along the edge Moreland Village, plus miles of walking and biking trails, world-class golf and nightly s’mores around the fire pit, you and your dog are going to love a getaway to The Bluff.
Beach Rule Beware
While most beaches welcome well-mannered dogs, some do not and many have rules around having your dog on the beach. For example, Folly Beach permits visiting dogs, on leash, before 10am and after 6pm. While some beaches require leashes, others have off-leash hours. Every beach is different so check the rules before bringing your dog with you to the beach. The Charleston CVB is a great resource on local dog-friendly beaches in Charleston.
In The Dog House: When your dog is tired out from all of the swimming, sniffing, walking, and exploring they’re probably ready for a day off. Call one of Charleston’s many Pet Sitter & Dog Walker services to take care of your pet until you return.
Whether they’re sniffing their way through charming and historic downtown Charleston SC or splashing in the waves and digging in the sand on one of Charleston’s beloved beaches, your dog will be happy that you brought them along – after all, their favorite place in the world is wherever you are! Book one of our pup-friendly luxury vacation rentals today and get their tail wagging! For an added bit of pooch pampering, let our Concierge team add a Welcome Package for your Pet to your stay.
