You're planning your beach vacation and you can't help but want to bring your furry family members with you! After all, beaches and dogs seem to have an affinity for one another. Frolicking in the surf, romping through the sand and running full speed ahead are the makings of a perfect K-9, pet friendly afternoon. According to Travel and Leisure, "more pet owners than ever—according to a recent study, the numbers have doubled since 2005—are opting to travel with their furry companions. "When booking your vacation rental, you may assume that all beach rentals in Sandbridge, V.A. allow pets to accompany their owners on vacation; however, this unfortunately is not true and those that do may have restrictions you should be aware of. If you're hoping to book a pet-friendly vacation rental through Sandbridge Blue, it's best to ask a few questions and do a bit of planning beforehand to make sure everything goes as you expect.
Typically, "pet-friendly" equates to "dog-friendly". Unless a listing mentions cats by name, it should not be taken for granted that felines are welcome. Because of cats' tendency to "mark their territory" when they are in unfamiliar place (and how difficult it is to remove the odor), most property owners do not allow cats. Cats also tend to scratch furniture which is undesired. With more people generally traveling with dogs it is easier to accommodate to just one type animal verse accommodating to the varieties of other pet's people also have.
You are likely to find a limit to the number and size of dogs you can bring. The average number is two and it is typical to find a size restriction mentioned such as small, extra-small, or medium. Make sure you read each property listing carefully before booking. With Sandbridge Blue, 2 dogs are permitted in dog friendly properties.
Vacation rental companies typically charge an additional fee or a deposit for pet-friendly rentals. Most weekly fees are a minimum of $100 per pet. Just one of the many benefits of booking through Sandbridge Blue is that Fido gets to stay at no additional charge! We love your pup being part of the memories you make while staying with Sandbridge Blue and we don't want to charge extra to make that happen.
Booking a property that is not specifically "Dog Friendly" and bringing pets anyway is in breach of any rental contract that states no pets allowed. Your vacation may be cut short and that is no fun. Be sure to seek out pet friendly properties and enjoy a great time with the whole family, your four-legged members included!
It is your responsibility to have all the essentials you will need for your pet. The property may or may not have pet items so come prepared. Some of the items we recommend when you visit include:
- Bed/kennel
- Food & treats
- Bowls for food & water
- Toys (including water toys/fetch toys)
- Leash
- Collar with proper and up to date id tags
- Pick-up bags
- Bottled water or water from home
- Extra flea & tick protection
- Towels & shampoo
Make sure your dog is ready to travel. Some dogs get anxious when they are out of their normal environment. This can lead to excessive barking, whining, chewing and other undesirable behaviors. You are responsible for any damage your pet does to the rental property and also for being a good neighbor.
According to Visit Virginia Beach, in Sandbridge, V.A. pets can enjoy the beach all day every day in the spring, fall, and winter. However, between Memorial Day through Labor Day they are only permitted on the beach before 10:00 a.m. and after 6:00 p.m. Airtight containers for cleanup must be carried and used at all times. On a walk or on your way to the beach keep in mind that while walking on a city sidewalk or street your dog must be leashed or on a lead, and always with an id and licensing.
For more information about Sandbridge Beach's pet-friendly accommodations, such as their pet supply stores, dog-friendly restaurants, and how to prepare your furry friend for a day by the water, check out our blog!
At Sandbridge Blue, as with other rental companies, it is prohibited for your pet to be in a pool or hot tub. Dogs shed a significant amount of hair and body dander that will quickly ruin pool and hot tub pumps and filters. Also, the harsh chemicals are bad to ingest for your furry friend and it is difficult to keep a dog from drinking the water while they swim. Instead, take your pup to the beach and play in the waves then make sure to rinse the salt water off them when you get back. But no pool time for them.
