A New Friend for Hoagie
If you’ve read my bio in previous columns, you may have noticed that I mention my dachshund-pug mix, Hoagie. Over the summer, we brought home a new friend for him and our family—a German shepherd mix named Scoutty Puppen, or “Scout.” While we never quite mastered leash training with Hoagie in the 16 years we’ve had him, Scout is quickly becoming a pro at exploring town on his loose-leash walks.
Ormond Beach Dog-Friendly Shoreline
One of the places Scout and my husband had the chance to explore this summer was the dog beach in Ormond Beach. This stretch of dog-friendly shoreline, located just north of Andy Romano Beachfront Park at 839 S. Atlantic Ave., was a huge hit. The beach access opened about two years ago with the help of the nonprofit Daytona Dog Beach, Inc., which provided advocacy, funding, and volunteers to work with the Volusia County Council to make it happen.
Daytona Beach Expansion Approved
We were thrilled to learn that Daytona Dog Beach recently returned before the County Council to request an expansion into Daytona Beach. The council voted unanimously to open an additional 1.7 miles of beach—from Seabreeze Boulevard to Williams Avenue—to leashed dogs. On October 16, I joined the celebration and met with board members from Daytona Dog Beach, Inc., to discuss the milestone.
The celebration coincided with the Ruff, Rock and Roll Poker Run, hosted at the Hard Rock Hotel in Daytona Beach. President Nanette McKeel Petrella and Director of Advocacy and Partnerships Jami Gallegos said this county decision came much easier than the first time around, as cities, businesses, and the community have seen the benefits of opening beaches to dogs. The Hard Rock itself has hosted many guests who want to enjoy the sand with their pets and lent its voice in support.
This exciting new stretch of shoreline will officially open on December 1st, providing even more space for dogs and their owners to enjoy the sand, surf, and sunshine.
Nearby Dog-Friendly Destinations
Ponce Inlet and Smyrna Dunes Park in New Smyrna Beach already have dog friendly beach areas, and Nanette and Jami said more cities and businesses have reached out about expanding the effort. It’s great to see the community come together to create more inclusive spaces for both humans and their four-legged friends.
Becoming a Paw Ambassador
Anyone is welcome to bring their leashed dogs to the Ormond and Daytona dog beaches to enjoy the sand and surf. For updates or to become a Paw Ambassador, visit DaytonaDogBeach.org.
Lives in Daytona Beach with her husband, three daughters, two housemates, and a “doug” (dachshund- pug mix dog). She loves exploring and promoting the food, shops and events that Daytona has to offer. You can follow her local adventures at @CassGoAroundDaytona on Instagram.
Have a story idea for Cassie? Reach out to her directly at Cassie@ECCToldMe.com — she’d love to hear from you
