Traveling to Sanibel With Your Pet? Here’s How to Stay at the Island Inn
We love our furry friends, but we’re unable to welcome pets at the Island Inn. The good news: you don’t have to choose between your pet and a beachfront stay. Sanibel has excellent pet boarding right on the island, trusted local pet sitters, and leashed dogs are welcome on every public beach. Here’s everything you need to plan a stress-free trip for both of you.
Where to Board Your Pet Near the Island Inn
- VCA Sanibel Animal Hospital: dog and cat boarding on the island, with veterinary care on site. 1509 Periwinkle Way, Sanibel · (239) 472-8387
- Tails-A-Waggin Animal Hospital & Pet Resort: boarding and doggie daycare with fenced play yards, just over the causeway. 11960 Kelly Road, Fort Myers · (239) 482-6897
- VCA Coral Animal Hospital Resort: climate-controlled dog suites, a dog water park and cat boarding. 9540 Cypress Lake Drive, Fort Myers · (239) 481-4746
- Prefer a home-away-from-home? Rover.com connects you with reviewed local sitters who board pets in their own homes.
Planning a Beach Day Together?
Leashed dogs are welcome on all of Sanibel’s public beaches (leash 8 ft or shorter; please clean up after your pet).
What to Pack for Your Pet’s Stay
When traveling to Sanibel Island with a pet, it is important to pack a bag for your furry friend. Just like you, they want some familiar items with them during their travels. Pets do best when sticking to their daily routine, even in a beautiful tropical setting.
To maintain their routine, bring along their favorite blanket or bedding to use during your trip. Always bring a little more food than you think they will need, in case you experience travel delays. Besides these essentials, other items to pack for your dog or cat’s stay with a boarding facility or pet sitter include:
- Sturdy leash
- Updated collar with attached contact information
- Food and water bowls
- Treats and chew items
- Toys
- Medications and vaccination records
- Waste removal bags and litter or puppy pads
- Baby wipes for cleaning
- Disinfectant spray
- Pet first-aid kit
Your Beachfront Stay, Worry-Free
Your Beachfront Stay, Worry-Free
With your pet happily settled nearby, you can enjoy a stay that is quiet and pet-free by design, a real plus for guests with allergies or anyone looking for a peaceful escape. All that’s left is the sand, the shells and the sunsets. Book your stay at book.islandinnsanibel.com or call us at 1-800-851-5088. We can’t wait to welcome you.

