Bringing Pet Pals
Pets are people too! Don't leave them behind when you visit The Florida Keys.
In our islands, activities like paddle boarding, kayaking, boating and bicycling are popular with our four-legged friends along for the ride.
Many Florida Keys accommodations offer pet-friendly amenities, some with pet programs that even feature animal beds and lifejackets, cooling water bowls and collar charms, or their very own "Paw Happy Hour" complete with “puptails” and “yappetizers.”
Monroe County code (encompassing all the Florida Keys and its municipalities) requires a dog be leashed and under your direct control at all times, in public places.
Pet Safety
Traveling with your pet in the Florida Keys? Our friends at the Florida Keys SPCA share a few important tips to help you and your furry companions stay safe and happy in the subtropics.
- Prep before you go: Protect your pet from heartworms, fleas, and ticks by giving preventive treatments ahead of your trip. A microchip with up-to-date contact info is also a smart way to ensure a quick reunion if you get separated.
- Never leave pets in the car: Even on an 80-degree day, car temperatures can soar to 115 degrees within minutes, even with the windows cracked. Monroe County law allows animal control or law enforcement to remove pets from unattended vehicles for their safety.
- Watch the wildlife: The Keys are full of unique plants and animals. Keep pets leashed and curious noses away from unfamiliar plants or wildlife to protect both them and the local ecosystem.
- Check before you go: Policies can change, so always confirm that an attraction, open-air restaurant, park, or beach is still pet-friendly before visiting.
With a little planning and care, you and your four-legged travel buddy can enjoy a safe, sun-soaked Keys adventure together.
