Next Time Bring Your Dog
Most of us consider our pets part of the family, so it feels good to everyone to be able to bring your furry companion wherever you can.
Lucky you, and lucky dogs! Hilton Head Island is very dog-friendly; from events, to shops and restaurants. Many hotels and condos now allow dogs. Next time, bring your dog! Every restaurant with an outdoor patio welcomes well-behaved pets. Poseidon and Chop House 119 invite your dog to dine with you outside on the Patio. Shelter Cove Towne Centre even hosts dog-friendly events in the adjacent park: Thursday evening movies and Friday night sunset celebrations can include your well-behaved dog on a leash. Some Shelter Cove Towne Centre retailers even have furry greeters that will make themselves available if you are missing your pet during this visit to Hilton Head Island. Here are some tips for shopping, dining and enjoying events with your dog:
ASK BEFORE ENTERING: Situations change - just ask at the doorway if a store is still dog-friendly. Many shops offer treats & a cool drink if the owner gives permission.
POTTY FIRST: Make sure your dog is walked and has had the chance to potty before entering a store or starting to enjoy a meal with you on a patio.
PACK A SHORT LEASH: Retractable leashes are great for leisure walks, but can be a hazard in a small store. Pack a 4’ leash for your store visits.
START SLOW: Getting your dog comfortable in a dog-friendly store will assure their comfort in any retail situation.
VISIT AT A QUIET TIME: Start with an off-peak time so your dog can get comfortable moving around. Too many people in a small space can make even the best-behaved dog overly anxious.
NO BARKING: Your dog needs to be able to politely walk into a store without barking at merchandise, shoppers, or at another dog.
NEVER LIE ABOUT YOUR DOG BEING A SERVICE DOG: Go only to the many stores on Hilton Head that welcome dogs. There may be a reason why they ask that only service dogs to be allowed. Let’s stick to stores where dogs are welcome.
GIVE OTHER SHOPPERS PLENTY OF ROOM: This means keeping your dog at your side on a short leash. A good ‘watch me’ command with a small training treat is helpful
.REMEMBER ~ NOT EVERYONE MAY LOVE YOUR DOG: Hard to believe but, yes,there are some people who are uncomfortable with dogs. Just be aware of body language and give uneasy people a wide berth. The goal is for your dog to quietly accompany you, follow your lead, and not disturb other shoppers.
CLEAN AS YOU GO: If a spill occurs, just ask for help. Dog-friendly stores and restaurants are happy to help in these accidental situations.
WATCH YOUR DOG’S BODY LANGUAGE: Is your dog getting stressed? If so, it’s time to cut the shopping or dining short. Look for signs of stress like yawning, liplicking, stiffness and more. If you need to visit a non dog-friendly store, ask a friend or family member to hold the leash while you browse or get your essentials. You’ll find many dog-friendly Shopping Centers on Hilton Head Island in addition to Shelter Cove Towne Centre.
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