OUR PETS PAGE

Below you'll find our pet policy, information on vets, Gulf County ordinances concerning dogs on the beach and more. Please feel free to send us photos of your dogs enjoying the beaches of Cape San Blas to add to our photo galleries!

In 2004, we began traveling with our two Miniature Schnauzers, Gabby & Schultz, who is pictured at the left enjoying a day of beach watching from Beach Cliff, our Cape San Blas Vacation Rental home. The Cape is one of their favorite places!

The dog-friendly beach is a great place for an early-morning walk. The dogs love to chase the ghost crabs into their holes, "greet" other dogs they meet (both properly leashed, of course). We know your dog is a part of your family too, and we welcome them to our properties provided they are well-behaved DOGS only.

The following information will let you know the ins and outs of dogs on Cape San Blas and our property rules and requirements.

OUR PET POLICY

Our Pet Contract Addendum Can Be Viewed by clicking HERE

In signing our pet contract you agree to:

1. Keep your dog(s) under control at all times.
2. Your dog(s) must be housebroken.
3. Keep your dog(s) off the furniture and bedding at all times.
4. Adhere to local ordinances, leash laws and licensing requirements.
5. Clean up after your dog(s) & dispose of the waste promptly.
6. Keep dog(s) from being noisy or aggressive and from causing any annoyance or discomfort to others. You promise to remedy any complaints immediately. (Please be particularly cautious about small children at play on the beach.)
   Agree that your dogs are appropriately and currently treated for flea and tick prevention & will be current in their treatment at time of check-in.
7. Owners/Agents of Beach Cliff, Beach Time, Beachy Keen & Water's Color take no responsibility for renters’ pet(s). You agree to pay for any damage, loss or expense caused by your pets.
8. Dogs will be rinsed of sand & dried thoroughly before entering the unit. Dog towels must be washed, dried and returned to their proper place before check-out. Guest linens and towels will not be used on your pet (pet towels are provided).
   Dogs will not be washed in the bathtubs or showers inside the unit. This must be done in the outside shower or with a hose in the carport.
9. No personal pet beds or other such items will be put in our washer or dryer.

GULF COUNTY'S LEASH LAW

The pet law in Gulf County states that pets on leashes are welcome on the beaches of Gulf County, except within the St. Joseph Peninsula State Park. Animals must remain on the leash at all times while on the beach, and owners must remove any remnants left behind by the animal, so carry baggies on all beach adventures.

TIPS ABOUT OUR PROPERTIES & BRINGING YOUR DOG

BEACH CLIFF -- Our gulf-front single-family residence, Beach Cliff does not have a grassy lawn like your dog may be used to at home. Our dogs prefer to head to the beach when weather permits, so I always just take them there first. A tip is to place a pet bag (provided in the master closet) with you. I tie one on their leash or stick it in my pocket. If you find you need to walk them around the house or down the road, just be aware of what we call "sandspurs" and beggar's lice, etc. They have a bad habit of finding their way into soft paws and coats.

BEACH TIME, BEACHY KEEN & WATER'S COLOR -- Barrier Dunes is probably featured someplace in every dog's daydreams. Lots of paved streets with grassy areas to sniff and explore, lakes, and abundant wildlife are convenient to both our properties -- and that's all without ever reaching the beach! On the beach, you'll find many other dog owners and dogs. Do be aware of your dog's temperament around other animals and children. Some days you will have the beach all to yourself, but on other days, particularly in season, you may find several other dogs enjoying the beach with their families as well. Barrier Dunes has conveniently-placed "Dog Comfort Stations" with bags for your use. If you are heading to the beach, we suggest you simply get a bag on your way and tie it to your dog's leash.

LOCAL VETERINARIANS & MORE

Veterinarians:

PET SITTER:

Diana Fortinberry 850-227-5770. Diana will come out to Barrier Dunes and stay with your dogs if you are going out during the day! She comes recommended from another guest!

GROOMER & PET SITTER:

Penelope's Pet Shop, 45 Market St., Apalachicola, FL 32320. Phone (850) 653-2257.

GROOMERS:

DOG GROOMING PLUS, 514 East 4th Street, Port St. Joe, FL 32456. Phone (850) 227-3611

A SPECIAL PET, 1075 Rosemont Street, Apalachiacola, FL 32320. Phone (850) 653-2285

PET BOUTIQUE:

PETUNIA, 14 Avenue D, Apalachiacola, FL 32320 (Just across from The Owl Cafe). Phone (850) 853-9144. Website: www.petuniapet.com  (An adorable little shop for people owned by pets. Your dog is welcome inside -- but they'll want to make a purchase so be prepared!)