We all enjoy fun times with our pets. 

Sometimes that means checking out some local pet-friendly parks; and sometimes it means making travel accommodations with our pets. 

Chesapeake has 3 dog parks - here dogs are off-leash, fenced-in; contain benches, water fountains for dogs and owners and poop-scoop bags.  The parks are open daily from Sunrise - to - Sunset.  Please remember that not all dogs will enjoy socializing with 'stranger' dogs and be mindful whether this is a good fit for your dog.  

Membership is required to visit the dog parks.  Here is a link for Dog Park Membership.

Chesapeake has many other parks as well.  Your dogs are welcome in most, provided they remain on leash and are not disruptive.  Here is a link to info on Chesapeake Parks: Parks and Recreation in Chesapeake.

Of course, there are times when we wish (or need) to travel with our pets.  Here are some links that should help with your planning:

• PetsWelcome.com
• Pets Allowed Hotels
• 1 Click Pet Hotels
• DogFriendly.com
• Bring Fido.com
• TripsWithPets.com

In our area, we must also plan and prepare for Hurricanes, Flooding, Tornadoes, and other natural (and potentially man-made) disasters.  Hurricane Katrina taught the nation that when we are not allowed to bring our pets to shelters; many of us will not evacuate at all.  Dr. Carrico is an active member of CART (Community Animal Response Team) and CMRC (Chesapeake Medical Reserve Corps); and participates in drills and planning for our pets in the event of local disasters.  Our Chesapeake CART group has implemented the pet shelter during times of disasters and will continue to plan for evacuation with our pets.  Here is a link to the Chesapeake City page for Disaster Planning with Pets.