Have a Pooch? Need a Place? Sanibel is Waiting!

When the referendum to create a dog park on Sanibel was defeated about a year ago, the unknowing may have interpreted that as anti-dog. That interpretation could not be further from the truth! The dog park location, was the issue and not the use of land for a dog park.


Both residents and visitors on Sanibel Island love their pooches, but they love nature more. The issue with the previous location was that the nay votes cast reflected a concern that the dogs would be in conflict with the indigenous four legged inhabitants. Even with that concern, the referendum only failed by 41 votes.


And now a new location is being discussed that will not require a referendum to establish a dog park, so it is at least likely once funding and other issues of concern are resolved, the dog park will be created.


All that said, Sanibel has lots of attractions as it is for vacationers who want to holiday with their happy tail waggers.


Though not every accommodation is pet friendly, many are.

However, please note that most condos do not allow any pets at all and even many of the cottages and homes that do allow a pet have limitations on breed and weight of dogs. So you do have to ask if your species of pet and size of dog is ok.


In addition, make sure you clarify if there is an additional fee to bring your best buddy. In almost all instances, there will be a pet fee, and most times it is non-refundable. The fee generally ranges from $250 to $400, often contingent on the breed of dog. The fee is often used by the owner of the property to do a special clean up on your departure, banishing any tell tale signs that there was a pet in the place.

If the fee puts you off, consider the alternatives.....leaving your beloved at home with friends or family or boarding the adorable beast which will probably cost you as much as the pet fee. And where will your pup be happiest? Well, that's up to you to decide.

In addition to being able to find a house that allows a pet (and sometimes even 2 pets), you will find that the people on Sanibel and business owners will be pet friendly as well.

This extends to your being able to take your dog with you to the beach.

Bowman’s Beach is considered to be one of Florida’s most beautiful beaches, and is one of the most remote beach areas on Sanibel Island. Dogs must be on a leash, but this is a very small price to pay for access to such a beautiful spot. Here you’ll see lots of birds, tropical plants and wetlands. Pets (leashed) are also permitted on Algiers Beach, Lighthouse Park Beach, and Tarpon Bay Road Beach.


Now, how nice is that? A glorious sunset with a glass of wine and Fido at your side!