We would like to be able to take our dogs to the beach for fun, exercise and socialization.

According to the AVMA (www.avma.org) there are approximately 76,282 households in Brevard County with one or more dogs (approx. 122,051 dogs) and yet there is only ONE dog friendly beach in all of the county ( Canova Park, Melbourne). That park is over 10 miles from South Cocoa Beach and the City of Cocoa Beach which makes it impractical for dog owners to go there on a day to day basis.

Much of South Cocoa Beach has no sidewalks or green areas on which to walk dogs. Many of us live on a narrow bit of land between the Banana River and the ocean, where there is often no option other than to walk along a busy and dangerous A1A several times a day to exercise our dogs. This road has no sidewalks (except for one or two very small sections) and cars regularly speed over the 45mph speed limit. The only other choice for us is to drive somewhere else to walk our pets. This is inconvenient and impractical, especially for those who don't drive, such as many of the elderly. They are especially at risk walking along A1A and need a safe area within walking distance of their homes and condos.

As an added bonus, it would be good for tourism to be able to offer a dog friendly beach in the area. There are many dog friendly beachfront hotels, motels and rental units and yet the tourists may not take their dogs to any beach at any time, anywhere in Brevard with the exception of the Sandy Paws Dog Park at Canova Park in Melbourne. 

There are hundreds of successful dog friendly beaches all over Florida and the USA. Let's add South Cocoa Beach in Brevard county to the list!