Dog Friendly Block Island

Block Island's dog ordinance seems to allow leashed dogs on any beach any time. Dogs are allowed to go unleashed on all beaches except on Crescent Beach: the area on the eastern side of Block Island from the breakwater at the Surf Hotel to the northern boundary of Mansion Beach from 9:00a.m. to 6:00p.m. from June 1 to October 1. Read on for other restrictions that seem to over ride the ordinance in some areas...

There is plenty of space to roam on the less crowded, dog friendly beaches. Great places to run, fetch and swim! Note that there is a sign posted at the Fred Benson Town Beach that reads "No Dogs per Health Department" I suppose this means that the State trumps the town in not allowing dogs on that portion of beach at least while the pavilion is operating.

If you want to let your dog off leash on the beaches, being on the crowded main beaches is no fun anyway. Also, when the endangered "Piping Plover" birds are nesting in the sand dunes (Spring & Summer), you will be reminded to stay out of the dunes by our 'Piping Plover Police'. These workers from the Nature Conservancy are out to protect such endangered species as they nest and procreate on our island's east beaches. They also post signs in the newspaper and at certain federally protected areas that say "no dogs." I suppose again that Federal Laws trump the town ordinance so just be mindful of dogs in the dunes wherever you are. Tricky business this dog friendly stuff.

If you are staying overnight or are here on vacation, find Places to Stay that don't mind fur. The Blue Dory Inn, The Island Home, The Gothic Inn and The Inn at Block Island are a few. You may look for a House Rental that takes pets. Try the Online Rent by Owner sites where houses get categorized by being "Pet Friendly." You may click the small link below to the "Home Away" network.

You may also try the Realtors for house rentals that allow pets.

Dogs have been spotted at some of the restaurants and cafes that have outdoor seating. The smaller eateries with outdoor areas are the ones to go try. Juice 'n Java, or The Ice Cream Place, also The Albion Pub, The Post Office Bagel Shop, Harry's, Rebecca's Take Out, or Old Harbor Take Out to name a few.

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• Make sure your pooch is dog-friendly himself: that is, well-behaved around other people and especially children.
• Leash your four-legged friend and keep him or her from socializing with other diners or employees, unless welcomed.
• Try to keep your dog close to your table or chair so he or she is not in the waiter's path. Dogs are not allowed on the chairs or tables.
• Bring your own doggie bowl or ask the waiter for a paper or plastic bowl or cup for water if necessary. Pets are not permitted to eat or drink out of restaurant glasses or dishes, unless they are disposable.
• Remember to tie your dog to your chair and not a table. A dog tied to a table can result in spilled drinks or food if he or she is strong enough to make the table move.
• Always call ahead or ask first to make sure an establishment allow dogs at their outdoor tables.
• If your pet is misbehaving or barking, please respect the other patrons and take your pet for a walk.

It's a great idea to tire your pet out before bringing him to any public place such as a restaurant. Tired dogs are always better behaved.

• Monitor your dog around children, sometimes children need coaching on how to safely approach or pet a dog.

Once the dog days of summer are over, with your pet sleeping contentedly at your feet, you'll be planning your next trip to the Block.

Don't forget to clean up after your little buddies so that we can all enjoy a dog friendlier environment.

This begins at the ferry dock on the mainland in Point Judith. There is a walkway in between the state parking lot and the ferry (near the public restrooms). This is a good place to walk your dog before boarding the boat. There are 'doggy bags' and trash cans conveniently located in this area.

There are a few places around the island where you will find 'doggy bags' but most dog owners don't leave home without 'em.

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