Dewey: The Small-Town Library Cat Who Touched the World, Vicki Myron and Bret Witter.
In January 1988, someone shoved a ginger kitten into the overnight book drop of the library in Spencer, Iowa. Vicki Myron, the library director, found the cat the next morning. So began the tale of Dewey Readmore Books.
When I picked up this book, I wondered if it would be the feline equivalent of Marley and Me. (Incidentally, I have not read that book; I have my own memories of a rambuctious dog, thank you very much.) I enjoyed reading about Dewey and his exploits. He seemed to be a great cat who had a lot of people wrapped around his big paw.
It was also interesting to read about the town of Spencer. Like a lot of small towns in America, it seems that time is passing them by.
However, I felt the author spent too much time using the book as an autobiography. After all, the title of the book references the cat, not her. While a certain amount of “this cat changed my life” would be appropriate, I felt too much time was spent on her personal issues.
I confess I was a little annoyed with the ending. Perhaps the author did not fully explain the situation. I do not want to give away the ending. Let’s just say that situations like the ones in the end are sometimes more complex. I would like to give the author the benefit of the doubt.
Would I recommend the book? Well, I certainly would not buy it. If it is at the library (appropriately enough), check it out.
Rescue Mommy
Rescue Parents SPEAK offers reviews of products, toys, and other cool stuff for your rescue pet. We also talk about our fun life with our rescue pets. Visit our website at rescuepetsrule.com for more information, including photos of our furry family.
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- http://www.rescuepetsrule.com
Wednesday, June 29, 2011
Monday, June 27, 2011
Reminiscing
Last Tuesday was a sad anniversary for us. Three years ago, we lost Perdy. In some ways, it is hard to believe that it has been three years already.
Time has definitely healed the pain of her parting. I am thankful that, when I think of her now, I think more of the goofy things she did than the painful last weeks of her life. Sometimes, Gracie will do something that reminds me so much of her that I will call her “Perdy” by mistake.
Perdy was a happy dog who was full of energy almost to the end. In her younger years, she loved chasing the stream of water from the hose as I watered plants or washed the car. She would leap high into the air, twisting as she tried to catch the water. She would be soaked in no time, with a huge grin on her face.
We love and miss you, sweetie.
Rescue Mommy
Time has definitely healed the pain of her parting. I am thankful that, when I think of her now, I think more of the goofy things she did than the painful last weeks of her life. Sometimes, Gracie will do something that reminds me so much of her that I will call her “Perdy” by mistake.
Perdy was a happy dog who was full of energy almost to the end. In her younger years, she loved chasing the stream of water from the hose as I watered plants or washed the car. She would leap high into the air, twisting as she tried to catch the water. She would be soaked in no time, with a huge grin on her face.
We love and miss you, sweetie.
Rescue Mommy
Friday, June 24, 2011
Camp Unleashed
When we attended the Pet Expo in April, we stopped by a booth advertising Camp Unleashed. If you have found memories of going to camp as a kid, you can experience those memories again with your canine friend.
Camp Unleashed offers four days of classes on a variety of subjects such as agility training and obedience. The events are held in what look to be summer camp locales. They offer camps in Hendersonville, NC; Becket, MA; and Sequoia, CA. Their website is: campunleashed.net.
We would love to attend the Hendersonville camp sometime, since Kim Brophy has taught some classes there. She is a great local resource whose training center we have visited. Unfortunately, the camp is not in our budget this year.
We thought you might want to be aware about the camp, though. The next camps are scheduled for September in the aforementioned locations. It looks intriguing if you are as crazy about your pooch as we are!
Rescue Mommy and Daddy
Camp Unleashed offers four days of classes on a variety of subjects such as agility training and obedience. The events are held in what look to be summer camp locales. They offer camps in Hendersonville, NC; Becket, MA; and Sequoia, CA. Their website is: campunleashed.net.
We would love to attend the Hendersonville camp sometime, since Kim Brophy has taught some classes there. She is a great local resource whose training center we have visited. Unfortunately, the camp is not in our budget this year.
We thought you might want to be aware about the camp, though. The next camps are scheduled for September in the aforementioned locations. It looks intriguing if you are as crazy about your pooch as we are!
Rescue Mommy and Daddy
Wednesday, June 22, 2011
Free Cats!
Thanks to help from the ASPCA, the Asheville Humane Society is offering fee-waived adoptions during the month of June for cats over the age of 6 months. What an incredible deal! Your new friend would already have a round of shots and be spayed/neutered…for FREE!
Check out ashevillehumane.org for more details.
Rescue Daddy
Check out ashevillehumane.org for more details.
Rescue Daddy
Monday, June 20, 2011
I Made a Mistake
This weekend was very stormy. Gusty wind sent tree limbs flying everywhere. During one of our walkies, I bent to pick up a limb that had fallen into our driveway. Gracie’s leash was in my left hand; she walked a few feet ahead of me. I grabbed the limb with my right hand and swung it across my body to my left. Gracie bolted.
I made a mistake. I forgot something I learned not long after she joined our family. Gracie has been beaten with a stick at some point in her previous life. If you toss a stick around her, you must toss it well away from her, never in her general direction.
I tell the story for two reasons. First, you do not need to beat an animal to get it to “obey.” Gracie’s primary motivators are food and petting. She will do anything for either one of those things. Think about it. If your boss slapped you across the face every day when you arrived to work, how motivated would you be to continue working there? Please, use positive reinforcement, never physical or mental abuse, to train or discipline your buddy.
Second, when you adopt a rescued pet, do not be surprised if you have glimpses like this of the previous life. It was shocking for me when I first saw it. She reacted much worse then, since she did not know me yet. She did not know that I had no intention of beating her. I was just tossing the stick to play.
This time, she bolted from instinct but stopped within a couple of feet. It will take time for you to teach your rescued pet the same sense of security. Be patient. We have no idea what they have endured before they came to us.
Rescue Mommy
I made a mistake. I forgot something I learned not long after she joined our family. Gracie has been beaten with a stick at some point in her previous life. If you toss a stick around her, you must toss it well away from her, never in her general direction.
I tell the story for two reasons. First, you do not need to beat an animal to get it to “obey.” Gracie’s primary motivators are food and petting. She will do anything for either one of those things. Think about it. If your boss slapped you across the face every day when you arrived to work, how motivated would you be to continue working there? Please, use positive reinforcement, never physical or mental abuse, to train or discipline your buddy.
Second, when you adopt a rescued pet, do not be surprised if you have glimpses like this of the previous life. It was shocking for me when I first saw it. She reacted much worse then, since she did not know me yet. She did not know that I had no intention of beating her. I was just tossing the stick to play.
This time, she bolted from instinct but stopped within a couple of feet. It will take time for you to teach your rescued pet the same sense of security. Be patient. We have no idea what they have endured before they came to us.
Rescue Mommy
Friday, June 17, 2011
Final Review: World's Best Kitty Litter
Last week, I mentioned that we were testing a new kitty litter called “World’s Best Kitty Litter.” I wanted to find something that the cats would not scatter all over the house. I also wanted a natural product. Some brands contain silica dust and other chemicals.
WBKL is made from corn so the litter was very light in weight. I thought this might lead to tracking, but it did not. I found a small amount of litter near the pan. It looked as if someone had kicked it out rather than tracked it, though.
After the initial “lavender” scent faded, odors were minimal. When someone had a “number two,” you could smell it until the litter box was scooped. Afterwards, there were no lingering odors. This applies to most litters, though.
Unfortunately, the cats did not like the litter. They seldom used the pan that contained this brand. Instead, they piled up the pan that contained their old brand.
After almost three weeks, I decided to abandon the test and fill both pans with the old brand. It is shame. I really liked that World’s Best Kitty Litter is a natural brand. It seemed to live up to the claim that it would last a long time. When I changed the box, the litter was still in good shape. Of course, since the pan was rarely being used, that might have helped.
We will continue looking at other brands and let you know how it works. If your cat is not too finicky, we think “World’s Best Kitty Litter” is definitely worth a try.
Rescue Mommy
WBKL is made from corn so the litter was very light in weight. I thought this might lead to tracking, but it did not. I found a small amount of litter near the pan. It looked as if someone had kicked it out rather than tracked it, though.
After the initial “lavender” scent faded, odors were minimal. When someone had a “number two,” you could smell it until the litter box was scooped. Afterwards, there were no lingering odors. This applies to most litters, though.
Unfortunately, the cats did not like the litter. They seldom used the pan that contained this brand. Instead, they piled up the pan that contained their old brand.
After almost three weeks, I decided to abandon the test and fill both pans with the old brand. It is shame. I really liked that World’s Best Kitty Litter is a natural brand. It seemed to live up to the claim that it would last a long time. When I changed the box, the litter was still in good shape. Of course, since the pan was rarely being used, that might have helped.
We will continue looking at other brands and let you know how it works. If your cat is not too finicky, we think “World’s Best Kitty Litter” is definitely worth a try.
Rescue Mommy
Wednesday, June 15, 2011
Please Give to Brother Wolf If You Can
As I mentioned a few months ago, Brother Wolf will be competing in the fall for an ASPCA grant. The kickoff for the competition is August 1. I cannot reveal what they are planning. One of the things is big, though. If you can spare a few dollars, they really could use it.
They could also use dog and cat toys; bleach; towels; and other items. They are registered with Target, and they have a list of items on their website, bwar.org.
They recently opened a thrift store next door to their shelter. If you have gently-used items you would like to donate, please drop by. (You can find full details on their website.) All proceeds from the store fund the shelter.
You can also become a volunteer. They have lots of dogs at the shelter who would love to go for a walk. The cats would love a cuddle too. Who knows? You might meet your new best friend there.
Some of you who read this blog do not live in this area. Rescue groups and shelters all over the world regularly need the type of support we are asking people to give Brother Wolf. We encourage you to give whatever you can (money and/or time).
Rescue Mommy and Daddy
They could also use dog and cat toys; bleach; towels; and other items. They are registered with Target, and they have a list of items on their website, bwar.org.
They recently opened a thrift store next door to their shelter. If you have gently-used items you would like to donate, please drop by. (You can find full details on their website.) All proceeds from the store fund the shelter.
You can also become a volunteer. They have lots of dogs at the shelter who would love to go for a walk. The cats would love a cuddle too. Who knows? You might meet your new best friend there.
Some of you who read this blog do not live in this area. Rescue groups and shelters all over the world regularly need the type of support we are asking people to give Brother Wolf. We encourage you to give whatever you can (money and/or time).
Rescue Mommy and Daddy
Monday, June 13, 2011
Good Things Come to Those Who Wait
Gracie has lived with us for almost two years now. She has been a little mystery wrapped in a bundle of fur. What happened to her to cause some of her anxiety?
As we have chronicled in this blog, we have experienced a few challenges with her. Nothing we have experienced is severe compared to how damaged some poor animals are. For all of you out there who are struggling with your buddy, this posting is for you.
We are celebrating the small victories. Gracie was better in the car on this year’s vacation trip than last year’s. She runs to us when we call her. She is good with the cats, even though Kiki tries to push her buttons. She does not beg at the dinner table. She sits obediently at the door and before she gets her food.
Sure, she has little things that still require some work. Hey, don’t we all have our issues? Keep trying. It can get better.
Rescue Mommy and Daddy
As we have chronicled in this blog, we have experienced a few challenges with her. Nothing we have experienced is severe compared to how damaged some poor animals are. For all of you out there who are struggling with your buddy, this posting is for you.
We are celebrating the small victories. Gracie was better in the car on this year’s vacation trip than last year’s. She runs to us when we call her. She is good with the cats, even though Kiki tries to push her buttons. She does not beg at the dinner table. She sits obediently at the door and before she gets her food.
Sure, she has little things that still require some work. Hey, don’t we all have our issues? Keep trying. It can get better.
Rescue Mommy and Daddy
Friday, June 10, 2011
Testing: World's Best Cat Litter
Rescue Daddy disagrees with me when I say cats are nastier than dogs. If a dog barfs at 3:00 a.m., something is wrong. Cats do it any day ending in “y.”
Cats also scatter kitty litter around the house like fairy dust, no matter how diligent a housekeeper you are. I have tried a couple of kitty litter brands that claim to reduce tracking, as it is called, but to no avail.
We are testing a brand called “World’s Best Cat Litter.” (Yes, that’s the name.) We are using the Scented Multiple Cat Clumping formula. We placed it in one of the litter boxes about two weeks ago. In the other box, we placed the brand we have been using for years.
This particular brand of litter is made from corn and does not have added chemicals. It does not contain silica dust so we did not need a mask when we dumped it into the litter box. The website states the litter is septic safe and flushable. We are not going to test that claim.
The kitty litter is scented with lavender oil. For the first two or three days, the whole house smelled like a big jar of Noxzema lotion. Then, the scent faded. Unfortunately, whenever someone had a #2, it did not mask the scent.
The website claims a 7-pound bag will last 30 days if only one cat uses the litter box. If two cats use the litter box, then it would last 15 days (logically). The litter is more expensive than traditional clay litters. However, if it can last as long as claimed, it could end up being less expensive in the long run. We find that we must replace the litter every week with our current brand.
When we first placed the litter in the box, the cats refused to use that box for several days. They have used the box a few times. So far, the litter is living up to its long-lasting effects – because the cats won’t use the box!
I really like that none of the litter has found its ways outside the litter box room. I also like that the product is natural. Inhaling all that silica dust cannot be good for the cats.
Cats are finicky about the kitty litter. We will continue our test. We will let you know if this one is a keeper!
Rescue Mommy
Cats also scatter kitty litter around the house like fairy dust, no matter how diligent a housekeeper you are. I have tried a couple of kitty litter brands that claim to reduce tracking, as it is called, but to no avail.
We are testing a brand called “World’s Best Cat Litter.” (Yes, that’s the name.) We are using the Scented Multiple Cat Clumping formula. We placed it in one of the litter boxes about two weeks ago. In the other box, we placed the brand we have been using for years.
This particular brand of litter is made from corn and does not have added chemicals. It does not contain silica dust so we did not need a mask when we dumped it into the litter box. The website states the litter is septic safe and flushable. We are not going to test that claim.
The kitty litter is scented with lavender oil. For the first two or three days, the whole house smelled like a big jar of Noxzema lotion. Then, the scent faded. Unfortunately, whenever someone had a #2, it did not mask the scent.
The website claims a 7-pound bag will last 30 days if only one cat uses the litter box. If two cats use the litter box, then it would last 15 days (logically). The litter is more expensive than traditional clay litters. However, if it can last as long as claimed, it could end up being less expensive in the long run. We find that we must replace the litter every week with our current brand.
When we first placed the litter in the box, the cats refused to use that box for several days. They have used the box a few times. So far, the litter is living up to its long-lasting effects – because the cats won’t use the box!
I really like that none of the litter has found its ways outside the litter box room. I also like that the product is natural. Inhaling all that silica dust cannot be good for the cats.
Cats are finicky about the kitty litter. We will continue our test. We will let you know if this one is a keeper!
Rescue Mommy
Wednesday, June 8, 2011
Bison Designs Water Bottle Carrier and Bowl Set
Bison Designs Water Bottle Carrier and Bowl Set (bisondesigns.com)
About $16 (Worth it!!)
Last year, we bought a similar carrier and were greatly disappointed. The bottle holder was flimsy. The condensation on the bottle leaked through the thin material, leaving a nice wet spot on the clothing of whoever happened to be carrying the water bottle. The bowl’s material was of similar quality so more water leaked out of than stayed in the bowl.
A few months ago, we found another set. It is made by Bison Designs. Here is a photo:
This set is wonderful. The bottle holder is thick and keeps the water cool. The water bowl fits into the little pouch on the front of the holder. The bowl’s material is thick; no water leaked from the bowl.
The carrier has a strap so you can carry it on your shoulder like a purse. It also has loops in the back if you wanted to attach it to a belt instead.
Gracie really liked the bowl. She is sometimes hesitant with portable bowls for some reason. Maybe the smell? She did not have any issues with this one. The bowl is appropriately sized for a small to medium dog. It might be a bit small for a dog with a broad mouth such as a Rottweiler or St. Bernard.
We bought our carrier at Three Dog Bakery in Asheville. According to the company’s website, you can find the carrier at REI, Cabela’s, Campmore, Petco, and Mast General Store, among other stores. It is a great product. We give it four paws up!
Rescue Mommy and Daddy
About $16 (Worth it!!)
Last year, we bought a similar carrier and were greatly disappointed. The bottle holder was flimsy. The condensation on the bottle leaked through the thin material, leaving a nice wet spot on the clothing of whoever happened to be carrying the water bottle. The bowl’s material was of similar quality so more water leaked out of than stayed in the bowl.
A few months ago, we found another set. It is made by Bison Designs. Here is a photo:
This set is wonderful. The bottle holder is thick and keeps the water cool. The water bowl fits into the little pouch on the front of the holder. The bowl’s material is thick; no water leaked from the bowl.
The carrier has a strap so you can carry it on your shoulder like a purse. It also has loops in the back if you wanted to attach it to a belt instead.
Gracie really liked the bowl. She is sometimes hesitant with portable bowls for some reason. Maybe the smell? She did not have any issues with this one. The bowl is appropriately sized for a small to medium dog. It might be a bit small for a dog with a broad mouth such as a Rottweiler or St. Bernard.
We bought our carrier at Three Dog Bakery in Asheville. According to the company’s website, you can find the carrier at REI, Cabela’s, Campmore, Petco, and Mast General Store, among other stores. It is a great product. We give it four paws up!
Rescue Mommy and Daddy
Monday, June 6, 2011
Congratulations, Brother Wolf!
Brother Wolf Animal Rescue celebrated the two-year anniversary of their shelter’s opening this past weekend. While the group has been around since 2006, the shelter itself did not open until 2009. They also announced the opening of a thrift store next door.
Last year, the shelter adopted 1,900 animals. This year, over 1,100 animals have found homes. They do an amazing job with very limited resources. They receive no government funding, relying strictly on donations of time, resources, and money from the local community.
If you would like to learn more or, better yet, make a donation to this wonderful organization, please visit their website at bwar.org.
Rescue Mommy and Daddy
Last year, the shelter adopted 1,900 animals. This year, over 1,100 animals have found homes. They do an amazing job with very limited resources. They receive no government funding, relying strictly on donations of time, resources, and money from the local community.
If you would like to learn more or, better yet, make a donation to this wonderful organization, please visit their website at bwar.org.
Rescue Mommy and Daddy
Friday, June 3, 2011
Beaufort, SC
Located about two hours from Kiawah, Beaufort is a lovely, miniature version of Charleston. It is home to the Marines at Parris Island, yet the downtown area did not feel like a military town. The author Pat Conroy was also born and raised there. Many of his books are set in Beaufort.
A nice way to see the charming neighborhoods is by taking a carriage ride. Pet-friendly carriage companies can be found at the marina on Bay Street, where you will also find a public parking lot. Our guide told us lots of interesting stories about local history and juicy gossip about the various Hollywood stars that have stayed in the area while filming movies there. If you go, ask for the scoop on Barbara Streisand. We are not going to reveal it here, lest we be slapped with a nasty lawsuit.
The guide noted several areas where you could park your car and explore the neighborhoods. The city blocks are small, so you could see the entire area in little time.
After your tour, we suggest grabbing a bite to eat at Nippy’s at 310 West Street. It is a true hole-in-the-wall restaurant. There is no indoor seating. To use the “facilities,” you must walk through the kitchen. However, looks can be deceiving. The shrimp was freshly caught, light, and delicious. The shoestring fries were really good; Gracie gives them two paws up. We spotted several locals there, which is always a good sign.
The carriage driver recommended the Chocolate Tree for dessert. We did not have time to drop by, though. It is a shame. When we returned, others informed us the place has to-die-for chocolate.
While in the area, you might consider a boat tour of the ACE Basin. We did not take a ride because someone in our party gets violently seasick. Again, others have told us the ACE Basin is beautiful.
We posted some pictures of the lovely homes below. Happy Summer!
Rescue Mommy and Daddy
A nice way to see the charming neighborhoods is by taking a carriage ride. Pet-friendly carriage companies can be found at the marina on Bay Street, where you will also find a public parking lot. Our guide told us lots of interesting stories about local history and juicy gossip about the various Hollywood stars that have stayed in the area while filming movies there. If you go, ask for the scoop on Barbara Streisand. We are not going to reveal it here, lest we be slapped with a nasty lawsuit.
The guide noted several areas where you could park your car and explore the neighborhoods. The city blocks are small, so you could see the entire area in little time.
After your tour, we suggest grabbing a bite to eat at Nippy’s at 310 West Street. It is a true hole-in-the-wall restaurant. There is no indoor seating. To use the “facilities,” you must walk through the kitchen. However, looks can be deceiving. The shrimp was freshly caught, light, and delicious. The shoestring fries were really good; Gracie gives them two paws up. We spotted several locals there, which is always a good sign.
The carriage driver recommended the Chocolate Tree for dessert. We did not have time to drop by, though. It is a shame. When we returned, others informed us the place has to-die-for chocolate.
While in the area, you might consider a boat tour of the ACE Basin. We did not take a ride because someone in our party gets violently seasick. Again, others have told us the ACE Basin is beautiful.
We posted some pictures of the lovely homes below. Happy Summer!
Rescue Mommy and Daddy
Wednesday, June 1, 2011
Kiawah Island/Seabrook Island, SC
Both islands are located south of Charleston. It is about a 45-minute drive to the city, depending upon traffic. You can be in the city in no time if you get bored.
The islands offer an excellent opportunity for you to relax in a peaceful, stress-free environment. We stayed on Kiawah Island, a gated community that will host a PGA tournament in 2012. The island offers miles of trails for walking (solo or with your buddy) and biking. The beach is wide and clean, though not the best place for hunting seashells.
We suggest that you rent bikes, if you do not bring your own, to explore the beautiful island. Several shops provide reasonable rentals. We rented bikes at the Night Heron Park Nature Center on Kiawah Island since we decided on the spur of the moment to ride. You can walk up, pay the fee, and ride away.
On Kiawah Island, you will find only one hotel: the Sanctuary. Your wallet will be a lot lighter, and they do not allow pets to stay there.
We rented a condo, which you can do on both Kiawah and Seabrook Islands. A quick Internet search will give you several companies such as Beachwalker and ResortQuest that offer rental listings. You can also use homeaway.com and vrbo.com, which offer rentals directly through the owner. If pool access is important, be sure to check with the owner. In most cases, pool privileges are not included. (Some of the fancier homes on the islands have private pools.)
Don’t let the exclusivity of the islands keep you from staying. You can find very affordable options, especially if you travel with other parties and do not stay during peak season. For example, our average daily rate was $90 (excluding pet fee); yes, we travelled with another couple. You cannot find a decent hotel room anywhere for that rate.
The condos have kitchens with basic cookware and cutlery. You can prepare your meals there and save money. You will find a nice (albeit slightly expensive) grocery store, Newton Farms, nearby, or you can head off the islands for a 15-minute drive to the Piggly Wiggly or Publix grocery stores.
When you grow tired of cooking and want a nice, affordable meal, head over to Red’s Ice House at Bohicket Marina on Seabrook Island. The crab cake appetizer was wonderful – just the right ratio of cake to crab. The shrimp were plump, fresh, and delectable. Outdoor seating is available so you can take your buddy with you.
While you are at Bohicket Marina, check out the Beached Dog (http://www.thebeacheddog.com/). We spoke with co-owner Heather after meeting her husband (and co-owner) Neil on the marina. He was being walked by the couple’s mastiff. In addition to baths and grooming, they offer pet-sitting and exercise visits, in case you need someone to check in on your buddy during your stay. They even do pet photography. We did not use their services but were impressed with the shop’s cleanliness and their friendliness.
Regardless of what you do while you are there, we think you will have a relaxing getaway. We absolutely love the laidback, casual, and pet-friendly atmosphere and cannot wait to go back. Happy Summer!
Rescue Mommy and Daddy
The islands offer an excellent opportunity for you to relax in a peaceful, stress-free environment. We stayed on Kiawah Island, a gated community that will host a PGA tournament in 2012. The island offers miles of trails for walking (solo or with your buddy) and biking. The beach is wide and clean, though not the best place for hunting seashells.
We suggest that you rent bikes, if you do not bring your own, to explore the beautiful island. Several shops provide reasonable rentals. We rented bikes at the Night Heron Park Nature Center on Kiawah Island since we decided on the spur of the moment to ride. You can walk up, pay the fee, and ride away.
On Kiawah Island, you will find only one hotel: the Sanctuary. Your wallet will be a lot lighter, and they do not allow pets to stay there.
We rented a condo, which you can do on both Kiawah and Seabrook Islands. A quick Internet search will give you several companies such as Beachwalker and ResortQuest that offer rental listings. You can also use homeaway.com and vrbo.com, which offer rentals directly through the owner. If pool access is important, be sure to check with the owner. In most cases, pool privileges are not included. (Some of the fancier homes on the islands have private pools.)
Don’t let the exclusivity of the islands keep you from staying. You can find very affordable options, especially if you travel with other parties and do not stay during peak season. For example, our average daily rate was $90 (excluding pet fee); yes, we travelled with another couple. You cannot find a decent hotel room anywhere for that rate.
The condos have kitchens with basic cookware and cutlery. You can prepare your meals there and save money. You will find a nice (albeit slightly expensive) grocery store, Newton Farms, nearby, or you can head off the islands for a 15-minute drive to the Piggly Wiggly or Publix grocery stores.
When you grow tired of cooking and want a nice, affordable meal, head over to Red’s Ice House at Bohicket Marina on Seabrook Island. The crab cake appetizer was wonderful – just the right ratio of cake to crab. The shrimp were plump, fresh, and delectable. Outdoor seating is available so you can take your buddy with you.
While you are at Bohicket Marina, check out the Beached Dog (http://www.thebeacheddog.com/). We spoke with co-owner Heather after meeting her husband (and co-owner) Neil on the marina. He was being walked by the couple’s mastiff. In addition to baths and grooming, they offer pet-sitting and exercise visits, in case you need someone to check in on your buddy during your stay. They even do pet photography. We did not use their services but were impressed with the shop’s cleanliness and their friendliness.
Regardless of what you do while you are there, we think you will have a relaxing getaway. We absolutely love the laidback, casual, and pet-friendly atmosphere and cannot wait to go back. Happy Summer!
Rescue Mommy and Daddy
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