A BLOG FOR CHARLESTON PET PARENTS 

If you’ve ever come home to find your plants knocked over, a mug shattered, or your cat sitting smugly on the kitchen counter like he pays rent, you’re not alone. I’ve been there, more than once, with my cat, Charlie, who has perfected the art of controlled chaos. Here in Charleston, many indoor cats struggle with boredom, especially during hot summers or rainy weeks when the windows stay closed and the wildlife is just out of reach. Charlie’s always been a curious guy, but a

It’s tempting to think your independent kitty will be just fine on their own for a couple of days. After all, they nap 18 hours a day, right? Just leave out a little extra food and water, scoop the box before you leave, and they’ll hardly notice you’re gone . . . right? Not. So. Fast. While cats may seem low-maintenance compared to their canine counterparts, the truth is that even short absences can cause big stress for your feline friend, and health or behavioral issues can

Bringing home a new dog is always emotional, but adopting one who spent nearly three months in a shelter? That’s something else entirely. There’s joy, uncertainty, stress, and hope all tangled together in those early days. This is the story of Maggie’s first week with us and what we learned from welcoming her into our home. How We Found Maggie We first saw Maggie (formerly known as Becca) on the Dorchester Paws website. Her bio mentioned she had spent time with children, othe

Bringing a new dog home is one of life’s greatest joys. But let’s be honest, it is also a big shift, especially for your new pup and any pets already living in your home. A thoughtful introduction helps everyone feel safe, secure, and comfortable right from the start. Whether you are adopting a puppy, fostering a rescue, or welcoming a second or third dog into your pack, these seven tips will help create a smooth transition for your new dog, your current pets, and your entire

Why Sniffing Matters More Than Miles Dogs experience the world through scent, not sight. Their sense of smell is tens of thousands of times stronger than ours. Where you see a tree, your dog smells a detailed story of who’s been there and what they were doing. Sniffing provides: Mental enrichment: Sniffing challenges your dog’s brain in ways physical movement alone cannot. Stress relief: It lowers heart rate and helps dogs self-soothe. Confidence building: Especially helpf

Looking for something fun to do with your dog this season? Whether you’re a longtime local or new to the Lowcountry, Charleston is one of the most dog-friendly cities in the country, and there’s no shortage of dog-friendly things to do in Charleston SC for pups who love adventure and people who love spending time outdoors. From scenic waterfront trails and historic gardens to pet-welcoming patios and sandy paws at sunrise, this city is packed with places to explore with your

If your dog loses their mind every time they see a stroller, skateboard, or schnauzer, it’s not just frustrating—it’s a sign they need better socialization! Socialization isn’t a “nice to have”; it’s a must-have. It’s the secret to raising a calm, confident, well-behaved pup who doesn’t turn every outing into a circus. Especially here in Charleston, where patios, parks, and dog-friendly events are basically a lifestyle! So how do you raise a dog who can handle it all? Whether