Welcome to the first edition of Pawmetto Parents—Charleston’s newsletter for all the devoted dog moms and dads! 🐾 We’re glad you’re here and hope this becomes your go-to guide for helping you and your pups live your best Lowcountry lives.
What to expect in each newsletter (sent every two weeks):
To Do: an easy, ongoing activity to enjoy with your pup
Events: dog-centered happenings around the Lowcountry
Restaurant: a pup-friendly spot so your dog can dine out, too
Featured Pup: meet an adoptable rescue who’s ready for a forever home
We’d love to meet your four-legged family member! You’ve heard about our Bernedoodle, Lacey—now it’s your turn. Reply to this email with a photo of your pup, plus their name and breed. 📸
We’re excited to have you in this paw-some community! 🐶
TO DO
Dog Parks & Dog Wash at Pine Trace Park
In case you missed it, Dorchester County opened up a new 300+ acre park in Summerville this summer, Pine Trace Park and this new park is a huge win for pups and their families! Nestled off Chandler Creek Road (303 Chandler Creek Rd, Summerville), this park blends natural beauty with modern amenities in a way that feels like it was built with dogs in mind.
What Makes It Awesome for Dogs
Two fenced dog parks—one for small dogs, one for large—located right at the entrance so pups can dive in as soon as you arrive.
Dog wash station nearby: Let’s be honest—one reason many of us skip outings is the mess afterward. The wash station makes post-play cleanup so much easier.
Trails for leashed walks: There are miles of wooded trails perfect for walking with your pup, enjoying the Lowcountry woods.
Other Features You’ll Love (Humans Included!)
Inclusive playgrounds, picnic shelters, and reservable pavilions.
Fishing pond stocked with bluegill and bass, and a kayak launch + rentals.
Disc golf course, ADA-accessible amenities, and a thoughtful design that balances open green space with preserved natural areas.
Practical Details
Address: 303 Chandler Creek Road, Summerville, SC.
Hours: Park is open daily, sunrise to sunset.
Admission: $2 per person ages 3 and up.
Annual Pass: $42 for county residents—gives access to this park and Ashley River Park.
LOCAL EVENTS
Dogtoberfest & The Big Bark
This Saturday, September 27th, from 11am-5pm the Bay Street Biergarten downtown Charleston is hosting their Dogtoberfest event! This event will be hosted on their outdoor, pet-friendly patio and will feature:
🐶 Dog-friendly menu
🎯 Fun games for humans (cornhole, ping pong & more)
🛍️ Local dog vendors
💛 Live pet adoption with @colletoncountyanimalshelter
🍔 Phenomenal food & drink specials for the humans
It will be a great time to get outside and have some fun & socializing for both you and your pup. Follow Bay Street Biergarten for any updates on the event.
The Big Bark is almost here! On Saturday, October 4th, from 12–5pm, head to Firefly Distillery (4247 Spruill Ave, North Charleston) for a celebration like no other as Lowcountry Dog marks 20 years of bringing the dog-loving community together.
This free, dog-friendly festival has something for everyone:
🎶 Live music to keep the energy high
🍔 Food trucks serving up local favorites
🐕 Fun dog activities and demonstrations
🛍️ Local vendors with pup-friendly goods
🍹 Craft cocktails and drinks from Firefly Distillery
💛 Adoptable dogs ready to meet their new families
Leashed dogs are welcome, so bring your furry best friend along to enjoy the festivities. Whether you come for the music, the food, or just to soak up the community spirit (and meet lots of adorable pups), The Big Bark is a can’t-miss celebration of dogs and the people who love them.
RESTAURANT
Yappy Hour at Poogan’s Southern Kitchen
Make Wednesday evenings a night out for the whole family—including your dog. From 3–9pm at Poogan’s Southern Kitchen in Nexton (101 Nexton Square Drive, Summerville), pups are treated to a complimentary housemade sweet potato waffle and a bowl of cold water while you relax on the covered patio.
📸 Snap a photo of your dog enjoying their night out and tag us on Instagram or Facebook—each month one lucky pup (and their human) will win a $25 PSK gift card.
Because dogs deserve dinner out, too.
FEATURED PUP PRESENTED BY SUMMERVILLE WEEKLY
Meet Maizie
Say hello to Maizie the 2-year-old terrier mix who has been at Dorchester Paws since May!
From Dorchester Paws:
“Our girl Maizie recently got to spend her day out at Azalea Park and she had the best time. 💕
Maizie has been with us since May, and she’s truly a shelter superstar, a 2-year-old “helper dog” who makes other pups feel more comfortable when meeting new friends. She’s amazingly friendly, well-behaved, and always ready to brighten someone’s day.
Doggie Dates give pups like Maizie a chance to stretch their legs, soak up the sun, and enjoy some one-on-one time. Plus, it helps us learn more about their personalities outside the shelter.
We’re open every day from 12pm–5pm. Come take a dog out for the afternoon and make a shelter pup’s day!”
To learn more about Maizie and the other dogs and cats like her, please visit dorchesterpaws.org 💙
Love,
Lacey 🐾 & The Berks 👨👩👦👦