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If you live in South Carolina, or are thinking of making a move to the Palmetto State, and are considering getting a pet, there are many compelling reasons to do so. From its pet-friendly communities to its numerous dog parks, South Carolina could be one of the best places to own a pet in the US!
South Carolina is Very Pet Friendly
With its plethora of beautiful open spaces and a tonne of dog parks (more on these below), South Carolina is a particularly pet-friendly state. As well as hotels and rentals that welcome dogs here, you’ll even find dog-friendly restaurants so you can take your canine companion out for a special treat!
Head to the award-winning Crazy Crab restaurant to enjoy a meal in the company of your dog on the lovely heated outdoor patio that overlooks the water. Or choose the Lost Dog Cafe at Folly Beach for breakfast or lunch – perfect for fuelling up after a walk on the sand.
Plenty of Dogs Parks
South Carolina is well served by dog parks, making it easy to get out for some fun and adventures with your furry friend – and chat with lots of like-minded pet parents, too. One of the state’s most popular dog parks can be found at James Island County Park, which boasts a large lake where many pooches love to paddle and swim. Visitors also love the separate areas for large and small dogs and the handy dog-washing area.
Meanwhile, Chaplin Best Friends Dog Park is perfect for hot summer days: wander in the park’s beautiful forest of hardwoods and make the most of the doggie water fountains, clean-up areas, and toys.
Communities of Pet Lovers
South Carolina is so pet-friendly that you won’t struggle to find whole communities of pet lovers. Especially in cities such as Charleston, there are regular pet adoption drives; group dog walks, awareness campaigns and support groups to get involved in. For first-time pet owners, such groups can be an invaluable source of advice and companionship.
A Great Place to Adopt a Pet Needing a Home
There are lots of pet shelters and rescues in South Carolina where you’ll be sure to find your perfect pooch or family-completing feline. Adopting a pet in need of a home is a lovely and extremely rewarding thing to do. Plus, you’ll know that the newest member of the family will arrive from the shelter fully house-trained and vaccinated and will have been neutered or spayed. More people than ever before are choosing the compassionate route of giving a home to an animal that desperately needs one rather than purchasing a pet from a breeder. And South Carolina is a wonderful place for a pet to call home.
Is South Carolina Safe for Pets?
Yes, South Carolina is generally safe for pets, but there are a few things to bear in mind. Firstly the state is home to six different species of poisonous snakes, of which the copperhead is the most venomous. You’ll also find four poisonous spider species here – their venom can make pets vomit or become paralyzed. There are several types of plants in South Carolina that are poisonous to dogs, too, and can be fatal if ingested. These include Star of Bethlehem, Tree Tobacco, and Nerium Oleander.
Getting your pet insured is highly recommended – this will likely cover you for emergency or other medical care required should they fall foul of one of the snakes, spiders, or plants mentioned. As well as for a host of other things, of course, such as the development of a new illness. Plus, pet insurance SC is probably much more affordable than you think. For a relatively small sum, you can have peace of mind knowing that your dog or cat is covered should the worst happen.
Other Things to Consider
As well as the poisonous animals and plants, potential South Carolinian pet owners should also be aware that the state can experience hurricanes, which may be a concern. While this certainly doesn’t rule out having a pet, you’ll need to plan for their safety in the event of an evacuation or should you need to head to a shelter.
The heat and humidity of the state should also be carefully considered. You’ll need to take extra precautions to ensure that a dog or cat with thick fur stays comfortable and healthy, such as by ensuring access to plenty of fresh water and shade and limiting outdoor activity when the day is at its hottest.
South Carolina: The Pet-Friendly State
South Carolina is the perfect place for pet owners and animal lovers; there are near-endless opportunities to get out hiking or strolling the trails of its many parks, enjoy some fun at one of its many dog parks, and even enjoy a meal in the company of your furry friend in one of the state’s dog-friendly restaurants. Be aware of the hazards posed by poisonous animals and plants, as well as the hurricane threat, take the necessary safeguarding steps, and then get on with enjoying South Carolina life with your pet.
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