Don't Leave Your Pooch Behind: Pet Friendly Sanibel Island

If it doesn't feel right for you to take a trip without Fido, you should know that Sanibel Island is more than welcoming of four legged friends.

There are many options in vacation rentals where your pet will be considered, and often invited.

However, please note that most condos do not allow any pets at all and even many of the cottages and homes that do allow a pet have limitations on breed and weight of dogs. So you do have to ask if your species of pet and size of dog is ok with the owner and/or manager of the property.


In addition, make sure you clarify if there is an additional fee to bring your best buddy. In almost all instances, there will be a pet fee, and most times it is non-refundable. The fee generally ranges from $250 to $400, often contingent on the breed of dog. The fee is used by the owner to do a special clean up on your departure, banishing any tell tale signs that there was a pet in the place.

If the fee puts you off, consider the alternatives.....leaving your beloved at home with friends or family or boarding the adorable beast which will probably cost you as much as the pet fee. And where will your dog, bird or cat be happiest? Well, that's up to you to decide.

In addition to being able to find a house that allows a pet (and sometimes even 2 pets), you will find that the people on Sanibel and business owners will be pet friendly as well.

This extends to your being able to take your dog with you to the beach. Our vacation rental home, Toucan House, is within an easy walk of Bowman's Beach and many of our guests take the short cut behind the house to walk their pooches to the beach.

Bowman’s Beach is considered to be one of Florida’s most beautiful beaches, and is one of the most remote beach areas on Sanibel Island. Dogs must be on a leash, but this is a very small price to pay for access to such a beautiful spot. Here you’ll see lots of birds, tropical plants and wetlands. Pets (leashed) are also permitted on Algiers Beach, Lighthouse Park Beach, and Tarpon Bay Road Beach.

You, the sea, the setting sun, a glass of wine and your constant companion at your side. Can life get better than this?