EVENTS:
Yappy Hour at James Island County Park: Live music, beer, and off-leash dogs having the time of their lives make these summertime happenings longtime favorites. This year’s events are from 4 to 8 p.m. (or sunset) on August 7, September 18, and October 16. 871 Riverland Dr., James Island; (843) 795-4386; ccprc.com
Pups, Yups, & Food Trucks at Palmetto Islands County Park: Mount Pleasant’s dog park has launched its own “Yappy Hour,” featuring a different food truck and band each month. The events go from 4 to 8 p.m. (or sunset) and are set for August 21, September 25, and October 23. 444 Needlerush Pkwy., Mount Pleasant; (843) 795-4386; ccprc.com
BARS:
Parson Jack’s Café: Named after a 19th-century parson with a beloved pup, Mango, this West Ashley institution even offers gourmet dog food for hungry hounds that come along for the fun. 3417-G Shelby Ray Ct., West Ashley; (843) 769-7775; parsonjackscafe.com
The Charleston Pour House: Hosting many of the area’s best bands with no cover charge from 6 to 9 p.m. nightly, the back deck at the Pour House has caught on as a premier happy hour location, and dogs can groove to the tunes right along with their humans. 1977 Maybank Hwy., James Island; (843) 571-4343; charlestonpourhouse.com
Red’s Ice House: The vibe at this waterfront stalwart is distinctly Charleston: oysters, flip-flops, sun-tanned people arriving by boat, and plenty of dogs on the spacious outdoor decks. 98 Church St., Mount Pleasant; (843) 388-0003 and 1882 Andell Bluff Blvd., Seabrook Island; (843) 518-5515; redsicehouse.com
RESTAURANTS:
If a local eatery has an outdoor patio, there’s a good chance they allow canines (of course, call before you show up with Rex in tow). You’ll find dogs eagerly waiting for table scraps at any number of hound hot spots. Our favorites include Brown Dog Deli, Fuel Cantina, Kudu Coffee, Taco Boy, and the Brick House Kitchen. Check out bringfido.com for a list of dozens of pooch-friendly patios. Keep an eye out for the Lucky Puppy Truck parked at events, parks, and vet offices. This food truck designed just for dogs features handmade treats and custom toys (luckypuppytruck.com). And don’t forget dessert: Paolo’s Gelato Italiano always has a pup-appropriate flavor on its menu. (41 John St., Charleston; (843) 577-0099; paolosgelato.com).
