Topsail Island (and Above and Beyond) really is a dog-friendly place. This makes me so happy because, after all, our dogs are family members! However, there is a leash law for Surf City and it is strictly enforced. If your precious pup likes to wander, we strongly suggest that you keep your dog on a leash when going outside. We have two small pups...one does just fine off-leash and the other is not quite as willing to stay within the yard, so we have to leash her at all times when we are in the yard. The good news is that the canal-side porch has a gate so you can restrict your sweet friend from wandering off, while still allowing him/her to enjoy the salt air!

When you are in Above and Beyond we encourage you to keep the bedroom doors (or the two doors separating the living/bedrooms) closed as much as possible so your pup can be sure to stay out of trouble!

If you and your pup tire of the beach or the canal, you might want to venture over to the Bark Park located at 201 Community Center Dr, Surf City, NC 28443. Dogs love it! This little gem is really hidden, so when you turn on Community Center Drive, make sure to go all the way to the large green building. The dog park is tucked away behind the playground, which is located behind the community center building. There are two sections...one for large dogs, and one for small dogs. Our sweet Wookie definitely belongs in the small dog area, but he THINKS he's a large dog, so we usually go to the large dog area, and he does just fine. I always ask the "large dog parents" if they object and I've never had any issue!

After you and your family (including your four-legged family member) return from the beach, you may need to give your pup a bath. The ground level of Above and Beyond is equipped with a sink that is PERFECT for bathing your small to medium-sized friend...just make sure to try to dry him//her off before he/she goes wild with the "after bath ZOOMIES"!