Pet Friendly Communities & Parks, Cashiers, NC

Pet-friendly Communities and Parks for Retirement
ByJayDaughtry

In doing my research on pet-friendly communities for retirement I came across some interesting information.First, many communities consider themselves “pet-friendly”, but generally this means that pets are not prohibited. Some go a step further and talk about their open space where owners can bring their pets for walks or to play. A few make real attempts at defining what makes a community pet-friendly and seek to integrate pet ownership into the neighborhood.

Here's one in Western North Carolina:

River Rock, located in Cashiers, N.C., is building what it is calling The Grizzly Poodle, a pet concierge service. The facility will offer full-service grooming and kennel and will also have personnel that can offer in-home pet care. The Grizzly Poodle will be located in Skillet Gap, an amenitized village for property owners in this gated community. This convenient location will also feature a general store and internet cafe.

As more baby boomers age and retire, look for more and more communities across the country to address the issue of pet-friendliness with creative approaches.

Pet Friendly Park near Cashiers, NC
Chimney Rock Park
H 64/74AChimney Rock, North Carolina

This park offers the best of the mountains in one place, from unique geological formations to sweeping views. Enjoy spectacular 75-mile plus views from the top of the Skyline Trail (Exclamation Point) or Inspiration Point, explore a 404-foot waterfall from the top or bottom, check out a variety of interesting trails, or try the 185 stair walk that threads between a narrow passage, and is called the "eye of the needle".

You'll also find a variety of special events, a nature center, a native plant nursery, guided tours, and much more. Dogs are allowed throughout the park and on the stairs, but they are not allowed on the elevator or in the Skylight Cafe. Dogs must be well behaved, on leash, and cleaned up after at all times.