Sleet and rain slammed into my face at the helm as the tug hauledMeanderat speeds she had never known. She knew she was going to face a big repair bill when we landed. But the good news was that we would be landing in one of ICW's loveliest cities: dog-friendly Georgetown.
Happy thoughts about Georgetown
I had no reason to have happy thoughts about Georgetown when we first landed there in the winter of 2016. We had only been sailing for a few months and were still learning everything.
We landed at a marina north of the city center in our first strong current. Staying only one night, we didn't walk the mile to downtown.
Yet we stayed at the dock long enough for a cruise ship from Annapolis that saw our port of arrival (Cambridge, MD) go down to spew all kinds of racist crap (apparently being from Maryland made you think you'd find common cause?) Ugh.) Fortunately, the sport fishermen who took up most of the spots were much more decent.
As we headed south toward Charleston, I saw no reason to look back on Georgetown fondly.
The following spring, on our first trip north of the Chesapeake Bay,meanderthe engine stopped in the narrow channel north of Charleston. There was no space or wind to navigate. So we called Tow Boat US, hoping we could get the boat to safety before the expected storms we were experiencing.
Even though we were towed much faster than our own motor could help us travel, the storms were faster.
As we reached Winyah Bay, the skies opened up, sending torrential rain and sleet into our cabin with the gale. Mike and Honey stayed dry down there. And as the person on board most likely to drive behind the tug without losing concentration, I was lucky to be behind the wheel.
Fortunately, most of the storm had passed by the time we docked at a marina on the outskirts of downtown. And after fixing the engine, we had a chance to explore the city.
Now for our third time, I got to see more of the dog-friendly Georgetown and really enjoyed it. And it's been a great place to explore with our dog, Honey.
Exploring Georgetown for Dogs
We dropped anchor in the Sampit River, within sight of downtown Georgetown. It's one of the easiest places to dock with a dog, thanks to two well-maintained free docks where you can tie up your boat while you walk, honey.
The city's docks connect to the Harborwalk, a boardwalk that's especially popular with dog walkers early in the morning and after the sun begins to set. The Harborwalk passes private and chartered boats on the water side and shops and restaurants on the city side. Any of the restaurants along the Harborwalk is a great place to people watch. And every restaurant we saw with outdoor seating welcomed Honey to join us.
There are actually three ice cream parlors along Front Street, and two of them have invited Honey in. our favorite islovethat sells homemade ice creams and sweets. But even better, Sweeties owners are huge supporters of rescued animals and raise money to help their favorite cause.
One of Georgetown's most charming features are its little parks: small shady green spaces with a few benches located every few blocks. Since Honey, like most dogs, isn't impressed by cute shops or even restaurants unless she earns something, these small parks are a great place to give her a break. We even bring your favorite ring so we can stop for a quick game of poke when we pass through one of the parks.
We met many other friendly dogs and their owners on the walks. Pocket pens, while small, are large enough to do puppy introductions without causing stress related to too-close spaces.
At least one of the local boat guides, Cap'n Rod's Low Country Tours, allows well-trained, leashed dogs on board. The boat is roomy and is a way to learn about the human and natural history of the area. I didn't ask about the others.
After all, I already have a boat.
Exploring Georgetown, South Carolina without a dog
I would never travel anywhere without Honey. But Georgetown has some cool attractions that aren't dog-friendly.
One that caught my eye is a local inn that calls itself the area's first bed and drink. Apparently you could stay there and learn from the owners how to make beer.
Georgetown is the third oldest city in South Carolina, behind Charleston and Beaufort. It has several history museums.
We like to visit the South Carolina Maritime Museum, which contains information and artifacts from various shipwrecks found off the South Carolina coast. I especially liked seeing an exhibition dedicated toRobert Smalls, the historical character I would most like to see a movie about.
Robert Smalls was an enslaved river pilot on the CSS Planter. In 1862, he and the crew devised a plan to get the ship into Union territory. But first, they picked up their families who had gathered where they could be picked up as the boat neared the Union blockade.
Smalls helped convince President Lincoln to accept African-American soldiers into the Union Army and Navy.
The Lord. Smalls spent the remainder of the Civil War using his skills as a pilot before briefly moving to Philadelphia as a free man at the end of the war. Although he could not read or write at the time, by the time he returned to his home in Beaufort, South Carolina, he had educated himself and achieved sufficient financial success to buy the house from his former owner. .
He subsequently represented Beaufort as one of our country's first black congressmen and distinguished himself by writing legislation that would make South Carolina the first state to provide free and compulsory education.
To see? Wouldn't he be a great movie figure? Ryan Coogler, if you are looking for a project…
We also visited the Gullah Museum. We learned bits of information about theGullah people from northern South Carolina when we were in Beauforty Charleston.
But the founder of the Gullah Museum in Georgetown has filled in the gaps, telling us how the experience of enslaved Africans led this part of the south to make its wealth growing rice and indigo. And how the skills of African ranchers led Lower Carolina to adopt the techniques most Americans associate with the West: free-range cattle grazing.
At the center of the museum's collection were double-decker quilts. One told the story of the Gullah Geechee from their culture in West Africa through forced migration, slavery, and eventual freedom.
The other quilt of stories told the story of Michelle Obama, whose father was born in Georgetown. Oh, and while the Gullah Museum isn't technically a dog-friendly place, the owner's dog is on hand to greet visitors.
I would probably visit a lot more museums if they all had dogs. You do not?
north of georgetown
After leaving Georgetown, our next stop will be Myrtle Beach. But the Waccamaw River we'll be traveling down doesn't look like the bustling seaside resort.
A cruise ship he knew was doing the Great Loop (a 6,000-mile journey up the Intracoastal Waterway, through the canals and the Great Lakes, and through the Midwest to the Gulf of Mexico) said the Waccamaw was one of the three most beautiful waterways in the Loop. (The other two were the Tennessee Tombigbee Waterway and the Hudson.)
Near Georgetown, the banks of the river line abandoned rice fields. As we travel north, bare fields give way to deep woods surrounded by cedars that grow on the shallow shore. The cedars give the water a dark stain that reminds me of iced tea.
The Waccamaw is one of my favorite rivers on ICW and I look forward to traveling often.
Honey will be looking for alligators.
South Carolina's Most Dog-Friendly City
If you like charming architecture, history, easy access to the coast, and want a new place to explore with your dog, check out Georgetown. I think it's a hidden gem that many people who know other coastal Carolina towns don't. It might even be the most charming and dog-friendly city in South Carolina.
And if you're lucky, you won't have to see it for the first time through a haze of heavy rain and hail. Then you'll probably love it even more than me.
Your Turn: What kinds of places do you most enjoy visiting with your dogs?
FAQs
What is the most dog friendly city? ›
1: San Francisco. Known for its mild climate and famous hills, San Francisco tops our list of the best cities for dogs. All residents (100%) have access to a park within a 10-minute walk and there are a high number of dog parks per 100,000 residents (4.2).
What is the most dog friendly place to live? ›1. Portland, OR. Portland has more dog parks per capita than any other city in the U.S., so you know “Paw-tlandians” are proud of their city's pet-friendly status. Sellwood Riverfront Park is popular with canines who love water and getting sandy paws.
Is Charleston SC a dog friendly city? ›Fortunately, Charleston is a dog-loving town. We pride ourselves on opening our doors to welcome both the furry and non-furry visitor. Don't hesitate to bring your dog along during your next Charleston adventure.
What's the state dog of South Carolina? ›AN ACT TO PROVIDE THAT THE BOYKIN SPANIEL IS THE OFFICIAL DOG OF THE STATE. SECTION 1. The Boykin Spaniel is the official dog of the State.
What state has the most dog lovers? ›Arkansas is the biggest dog-lover state out there, with 48% of the population owning a dog. Massachusetts has the lowest percentage of dog owners in the US, at only 24%.
What is the dog capital of America? ›Houston is the dog capital of the US, with the most dogs per person. If only we could adopt them all.
What is the least pet friendly state? ›...
The 10 least pet-friendly states in America in 2022.
- Philadelphia, PA.
- Buffalo, NY.
- Rochester, NY.
- Chicago, IL.
- San Antonio, TX.
- Kansas City, MO.
- Louisville, KY.
- Los Angeles, CA.
Puppy parents rejoice: you are in the best state to own a dog − at least according to a new ranking. Vermont topped the list for dog-friendliness compiled by Our Fit Pets in a ranking of U.S. states based on five metrics.
Is it illegal to let your dog roam in SC? ›SECTION 47-3-730. Dangerous animal not permitted beyond premises unless safely restrained. No person owning or harboring or having the care of a dangerous animal may permit the animal to go beyond his premises unless the animal is safely restrained and the requirements of Section 47-3-760(E) are met.
Is Folly Beach SC dog friendly? ›
Folly Beach Pier
Pets are not allowed on the pier. Pets on the beach must be leashed at all times. No pets are allowed on the beach during the hours of 10 a.m. - 6 p.m. from May 1 - September 30.
Edisto Town Beach
May 1 – October 31: dogs are allowed on Edisto Beach but must remain on leash. November 1 – April 30: Dogs are allowed off leash.
South Carolina
South Carolina's favorite dog breeds are Labs, german shepherds, and beagles, says the AKC. But the state dog of South Carolina is the Boykin spaniel, which originated in South Carolina and was bred to work with hunters all day long, making them a perfect fit for active families.
South Carolina law (Code 1976 § 51-3-145) states that it's unlawful for any individual to bring a dog to a park or facility unless it is crated, caged, or safely restrained by a harness not longer than six feet. An owner must also register a dangerous dog with local authorities.
Do you need a dog license in South Carolina? ›The pet owner is required to show proof of rabies vaccination from a licensed veterinarian and proof of spay/neuter if applicable. Pet owners are also required to renew their license every year. Your pet license is good for one year.
What dog is most attached to owners? ›- #1 Vizsla. Known as the ultimate Velcro dog, this Hungarian breed is literally attached to their owner, and is happiest when right by your side. ...
- #2 Labrador Retriever. ...
- #4 Maltese. ...
- #5 Golden Retriever. ...
- #6 German Shepherd. ...
- #7 Pug. ...
- #8 Shetland Sheepdog. ...
- #9 Italian Greyhound.
It's possible that where our dogs live is one such factor. A state-by-state analysis of dog lifespan shows Montana and South Dakota at the top with dogs living an average of 12.4 years. Other states with long-lived dogs include Oregon, Colorado and Florida where the dogs are typically living over 11 years.
What state is the safest dog? ›- 2.1 1. Arkansas.
- 2.2 2. Maine.
- 2.3 3. Illinois.
- 2.4 4. Oregon.
- 2.5 5. New Hampshire.
- 2.6 6. Vermont.
- 2.7 7. Virginia.
- 2.8 8. South Carolina.
The Labrador Retriever holds the top spot, and this friendly favorite has been No. 1 since 1991. Below, find ranked annual lists of AKC-recognized breeds.
What is the most wanted pet in America? ›Dogs. Dogs come in at number one, with48.3 million households owning dogs in the United States, making these four-legged friends one of the most popular pets around.
Which US city has the most dog owners? ›
- Maine maintains its top rank.
- New Mexico ranked last for third year in a row.
- Most improved: Maryland.
- Major trends: Animals included in protection orders and laws prohibiting sexual assault of animals.
Wyoming had the highest pet ownership rate in the United States, with 72 percent of households owning a pet in 2022.
Which states prefer cats or dogs? ›| Rank | State | Ratio, cats to dogs |
|---|---|---|
| 1 | Massachusetts | 1.87 |
| 2 | Maryland | 1.83 |
| 3 | Maine | 1.66 |
| 4 | Vermont | 1.65 |
The number of animals dropped off by their owners or found as strays across the U.S. also differs from state to state. The American West has higher rates of shelter animals relative to population. New Mexico registered the highest rate in 2019, with more than 3,200 animals surrendered per 100,000 inhabitants.
Where is the safest place for a dog? ›The back seat is the safest place for your pup because crumple zones, which are often likened to crushing a soda can, absorb the impact in the front and cargo areas. Meaning in a serious accident, your best bet is to keep your pet restrained in the back seat.
Where is the safest place to pet a dog? ›Petting a dog on the chin or chest is not nearly as threatening, Klein said. Also, as a safety measure with a strange dog, if you put your fingers behind its jawbone, the dog can't turn and bite as easily. You also should approach the dog with the back of your hand and him sniff it, Klein said.
Are dogs happier in the city or country? ›One counter-argument for country life is that dogs are simply happier there. According to a study reported on in Psychology Today, city dogs are much more fearful and anxious than their country cousins.
Are dogs allowed in restaurants in South Carolina? ›No. Food safety regulations restrict them from being inside the building since the food preparation and food sales areas are not separated from the pet supply section by doors or walls. Service animals are allowed in all customer areas. - Does South Carolina allow “pet friendly” dining?
Are pitbulls allowed in South Carolina? ›(A) A person in this State may not keep, own, or harbor a fertile pit bull dog without registering it with a governmental animal control agency. Registration is not required for an altered pit bull dog.
What happens if my dog bites someone in South Carolina? ›
South Carolina has a strict-liability statute that holds dog owners responsible for damages suffered by a person who is bitten or attacked by their animal. The dog bite victim does not have to prove that the owner knew or should have known that the dog was prone to attack.
Is Charleston beach Dog Friendly? ›Here's our guide for taking your dog to Charleston area beaches. Dogs are allowed off leash on the beach between 5 a.m. and 9 a.m. April 1 to Sept 14 and then 4 p.m. to 10 a.m. Sept. 15 to March 31. At other times, dogs have to be leashed – even if they're splashing in the water.
Is Isle of Palms dog friendly? ›Dogs are only allowed to be off-leash April 1st through September 14th between 5:00 a.m. and 9:00 a.m. and from September 15th through March 31st between the hours of 4:00 p.m. and 10:00 a.m. Click here to read more about dogs on the beach. Commercial business is prohibited on the beach.
Is Sullivans island dog friendly? ›Beach Hours for Dogs
During that time dogs can be off leash from 5:00 a.m. to 10:00 a.m., on leash from 6:00 p.m. to 5 a.m. No dogs are permitted on the beach between the hours of 10:00 a.m and 6:00 pm. Winter hours for dogs on the beach run from October 1st to April 30th.
March 16 – October 31 – Pets must be leashed at all times. November 1 – March 15 – Pets are allowed to be off leash from 7 a.m. to 7 p.m. everywhere on the beach except in the critical habitat area.
Is Pawleys Island dog friendly? ›Dogs are allowed on the beach year round; owners must have a leash in hand, have their dog under voice control and pick up after them. May 1 through September 30 between 8:00 AM until 8:00 PM, dogs must be on a leash and under complete control, even in the water.
Is Murrells Inlet beach Dog Friendly? ›Dogs on a leash no longer than 6 feet are allowed on the beach.
Where do Carolina dogs live? ›About the Breed
Today, they can still be found living wild near the Georgia-South Carolina border, but have also been seen as far north as Ohio and Pennsylvania and as far west as Arizona; rural areas are the common denominator.
With a score of 88.7%, the results revealed that the “most beautiful” dog is the Cairn Terrier. The breed, recognised as one of Scotland's earliest working dogs, originated in the Highlands. The second most beautiful dog, with a score of 87.5%, was the West Highland White Terrier, known as a Westie.
What is the most wanted dog? ›The American Kennel Club has used registration data to compile the list of 2021's most popular breeds. As always, the Labrador Retriever tops the list — this time for the 31st year!
What are the rules for dogs on Myrtle Beach? ›
City of Myrtle Beach
During peak season, May 1 through Labor Day, dogs can be on the beach before 10:00 AM and after 5:00 PM. From the Tuesday after Labor Day through April 30th, dogs are welcome on the beach any time. Dogs must always be on a leash no longer than seven feet.
Only 11 states have granted legal right to citizens to use any means necessary (yes, that includes smashing a window) to save a distressed dog. Those 11 states are: Arizona, California, Colorado, Florida, Indiana, Massachusetts, New York, Ohio, Tennessee, Vermont, and Wisconsin.
Do dogs have to wear rabies tag in SC? ›The metal license tag at all times must be attached to a collar or harness worn by the pet for which the certificate and tag have been issued. Annually before February first, the veterinarian shall report to the department the number of animals inoculated against rabies during the preceding year.
What is the least dog-friendly city? ›- Philadelphia, PA.
- Buffalo, NY.
- Rochester, NY.
- Chicago, IL.
- San Antonio, TX.
- Kansas City, MO.
- Louisville, KY.
- Los Angeles, CA.
1. Italy. Italy is the best place in the world for dogs - rating particularly highly for the large number of dog-friendly hotels.
What city in the US has the most dogs? ›You can never have too many dogs. At least that seems to be the case for residents of Houston, Texas. A study conducted by Protect My Paws, a pet insurance comparison platform, found that Houston is home to the world's highest ratio of dogs to humans at 52.1 dogs per 100 humans.
What city has the most homeless dogs? ›Istanbul is home to some 400,000 to 600,000 stray dogs and cats, estimates Ahmet Atalık, who oversees veterinary services for the Istanbul Metropolitan Municipality.
Where is the dog capital of the world? ›In a study conducted by Protect Our Paws, a company that compares pet insurance options, the company found Houston to be the dog capital of the world.
What culture loves dogs the most? ›Among the most dog-loving nations are South Korea (9 pet dogs per cat), and the Philippines (7.2 pet dogs per cat). On the other hand, in Indonesia, Switzerland, Austria, and Turkey there are three or four times as many pet cats as dogs.
What is the most owned pet in America? ›U.S. household pet ownership statistics
While dogs are the most popular pet overall—woof woof, keep it up—there is plenty of diversity in pet ownership. 70% of U.S. households (90.5 million homes) owned a pet as of 2022. 69 million U.S. households have a pet dog, compared to 45.3 million with a cat.