Your Four-Legged Friend Deserves a Vacation Too

 By Will Shields, General Manager, Seaside Vacations

As a dog lover, I can relate to folks who don’t relish the idea of leaving one of their best friends at home in a kennel or being cared for by a neighbor. The thought of not hearing the whap, whap, whap of his tail banging against the wall when he sees me in the evening is unnerving. The click of his nails on the hardwood floor is my reminder to get moving in the morning. Maybe, like me, knowing that your buddy is miles away (without his favorite ball) leaves a hole in your perfect vacation. 

The Outer Banks is the perfect place to bring your furry friends. Many of the vacation homes available for rent now welcome canine guests. While we make bringing your best friend a breeze, it is important to remember that there are pet rules specific to each town (see inset for details). 

Here are some tips I’ve picked up over the years:

* Don’t assume our love for canine friends is shared by everyone. All dogs should be controlled by their owner at all times. Just because you know your beloved pal is friendly doesn’t mean that the toddler building a sand castle will welcome his playfulness when your friend chases down his ball in the toddler’s work of art. Mom and Dad usually are not too thrilled either.

* Be sure to pick up after your dog. Bags are absolutely necessary, without exception.  Many beach access areas provide bags for you. Be sure to properly dispose of the bag.

* If your pal has a barking problem, he might not be appreciated by the neighbors or the folks sharing the next beach blanket. Respect the privacy of your neighbors.

Be aware that dogs face special risks in our giant sand box. First, the sand can be searing hot in our summer months. You may not notice the hot sand (unless you forget your flip flops), but your canine sidekick may burn his pads, so watch that hot sand. Here on the Outer Banks we also have “prickers” or sand spurs. You will immediately know when Rover steps on one. He will suddenly stop, raise his paw and yelp. Often they will lodge between toes and stop Rover’s happy romp. They are usually easy to remove and typically have no lasting effect.

Let’s say that you have just had a great time exercising Rover, and he runs into the ocean or sound to cool off. Try not to let him drink any of the water. Saltwater or brackish water may upset the canine digestive tract and leave Rover with a slightly upset stomach. If your pal doesn’t seem to be feeling better within 24 hours, I’d recommend a quick stop by one of our local vets (check out or website for names and locations).

A beach home is the perfect spot to enjoy a beach vacation with your pet. Dog-friendly homes come in all shapes and all sizes. Some even have fenced exercise yards attached to the pool area. How cool would it be to swim in your own private pool and watch your pal romp in his play area? Now that’s a vacation the whole family will enjoy.