‘The Dog Days of Summer’ Just Got a Little Longer… at Least When it Comes to Pups on the Boardwalk

Tuesday night, the Virginia Beach City Council approved extending the hours that leashed dogs are allowed on the Boardwalk during the summer. Prior to Tuesday’s vote, dogs could only be on the Boardwalk from 6 a.m. until 10 a.m. Now, Memorial Day weekend to Labor Day weekend (May 29-September 4) at the Resort Oceanfront, pet parents may bring pooches on the Boardwalk between 6 a.m. and 7 p.m.

The change, proposed by Vice Mayor Rosemary Wilson, was supported by both the Virginia Beach Hotel Association and the Virginia Beach Police Department.

Prior to Tuesday’s vote, dogs could only be on the Boardwalk from 6 a.m. until 10 a.m. Restrictions remain in effect for special events and the sandy beach and water in the Resort Area remains off limits for dogs during the peak summer months.

In summary, between Memorial Day and Labor Day:

• Dogs are now allowed on the Boardwalk between 6 a.m. and 7 p.m. However, Fido must don a leash and, as always, human companions are required to clean-up after their pet.
• Dogs are still prohibited on the sandy beach and in the water in the Resort Area (between Rudee Loop and 42^ndStreet)
• Dogs are permitted on the sandy beaches north of 42^nd Street and south of Rudee Loop (Croatan and Sandbridge) before 10 a.m. and after 6 p.m., provided they are leashed or under the control of their owner if unleashed
• Service animals are exempt from these prohibitions under the Americans with Disabilities Act (ADA)

During the shoulder season – after Labor Day and before Memorial Day – pups are welcome to enjoy the public beaches and Boardwalk at any time. Only leashed pets are allowed on the Boardwalk, but dogs may be off-leash on the beach. For the safety of all beachgoers, canine and human alike, please supervise your pet carefully when off leash and only unleash on the sand with reliable voice command and recall.

Finally, be mindful of the Boardwalk and sand temperature before allowing your dog on either surface. Sand, in particular, can get blisteringly hot – especially in the midday sun and can burn your dog’s paw pads.