Dogs gone wild: unleash canine spirit at top 10 ‘Dog Beaches’

AUBURN, AL (June 1, 2006) – The non-stop obedience and unconditional love we’ve come to expect from our full time companions can be stressful. And although our companions never complain, they crave the sound of crashing waves, a good run or stroll in the sunset, tossing a Frisbee or football, the feel of sand beneath their paws, and playing chase with the waves as much as we do.



But, dog-friendly beaches seem to be tougher and tougher to find, primarily due to patrons ignoring leash laws and a few other common courtesies (such as scooping up poop, disregard of which can put a damper on a child’s sand castle or a runner’s high).



‘Dog Beaches’ to the rescue. These ideal escapes, where adults, children and dogs all play together, hold a special charm, and often special memories, for all of us.



Informal but extensive research by www.PetVR.com and Americas Best Top 10 (www.americasbestonline.net) has uncovered ten dog-friendly treasure spots where you and your favorite furry pal can cut loose, as long as common rules of etiquette are followed:



#1) Cape San Blas, Florida

Just 35 miles south of Panama City, but feeling as if it is worlds away, Cape San Blas beaches are peaceful, not overdeveloped; in fact, you can sometimes walk a mile or two in the off season without seeing another dog…or person. The state park at the end of the cape was recently named Best Beach In America by Dr. Beach (a real person, not a doggie…but most doggies would agree).



#2) Dog Beach, California

Doggie nirvana. Your buddy will have tons of company at this popular spot near San Diego. In fact, people may be outnumbered.



#3) St. George Island, Florida

No wider than a mile at its widest point, and located near renowned historic towns in the Florida Gulf, there is plenty here for man and man’s best friend.



#4) Carmel City Beach, California

Only a short walk from the village of Carmel, the Carmel Beach is a beautiful and popular escape, with hotels and restaurants in walking distance. Other pet friendly beaches are close by, too.





#5) Dog Island, Florida

It takes a bit of effort to reach, but your pooch will consider it worth the effort, as long as he/she doesn’t get seasick. Accessible only by boat, ferry, or airplane, Dog Island is 50 miles east of Panama City in the Florida Panhandle.



#6) Hunting Island, South Carolina

Doggie and people heaven on earth. At low tide, the beach on Hunting can literally appear to be a mile wide, with tidal pools and remote stretches rarely found today. Located near the golf resort island of Fripp, and near Beaufort, SC.



#7) Grayton Beach State Recreation Area, Florida

This lovely 400-acre oceanfront park, also recognized among the best beaches in American by Dr. Beach, is located between Destin and Seaside, FL.



#8) Pistol River State Scenic Viewpoint, Oregon

If your pooch isn’t fond of windsurfing, no matter. This windsurfers’ paradise will suit them just fine. Located just outside of Oregon State Park boundaries, south of Gold Beach.



#9) Jekyll Island, Georgia

This island destination is loved by beach fanatics from all over the country; the fact that it welcomes dogs just adds to its appeal. On the Georgia coast.



#10) Ft. Fisher State Recreation Area, North Carolina

Just outside of Wilmington, NC, this beach allows dogs in all areas except swimming areas with lifeguards.



Whether you like to just take a dip, or take a dip and shake violently afterward, visit (www.PetVR.com) for more details on each site, and additional helpful links. And, to ensure that places for our favorite ‘companions’ to escape increase, rather than diminish, follow the expected rules of etiquette also listed on the site.