Welcome back, Pawmetto Parents!

It’s a festive time of year — and that definitely includes the dogs! 🐾 Dogtoberfest is happening this weekend, complete with pups in costume and all the cozy fall vibes. And with the perfect 70-degree weather lately, it’s the ideal time to grab a patio table at Ellis Creek Fish Camp and enjoy a meal with your dog in tow. We’ve rounded up all the ways to make this October unforgettable for you and your pup — scroll down for the details! 👇🏼

It’s been a bit of a rollercoaster week with our Lacey girl, who’s been under the weather (and had us asking, what in the world did you eat?). Thankfully, she’s feeling much better now — and we’re extra grateful for our vet (even if we’re not thrilled about the bills 😅).

We hope your October is off to a great start, full of long walks, wagging tails, and maybe a few extra treats. If you’re new here, reply with a photo of your pup — we’d love to meet them!

TO DO

Paint Your Pet

📍 Craft & Canvas – 1702 Old Towne Road, Charleston
🗓️ Happens the third Thursday of every other month

If you’ve ever wanted to capture your pet’s personality on canvas, this event is for you! Paint Your Pet at Craft & Canvas is a creative and heartwarming way to spend an evening celebrating your furry best friend — no art experience required.

Here’s how it works: once you sign up, you’ll email the studio a clear photo of your pet by 4pm the Wednesday before the event. Their talented team will sketch the outline of your pet onto a canvas ahead of time, so when you arrive, you can dive right into the fun part — painting!

Each session includes everything you’ll need to create your masterpiece: canvas, brushes, paint, and step-by-step instruction from an experienced artist. Whether you’re a seasoned painter or a total beginner, you’ll leave with a keepsake that truly captures your pet’s spirit (and probably a few new friends who love animals just as much as you do).

It’s the perfect night out for pet parents, friend groups, or anyone looking for a creative twist on a Charleston evening.

🐾 Spots fill up quickly — reserve your seat for the next session at charlestoncraftandcanvas.com

LOCAL EVENT

Dogtoberfest at Freshfields Village

If you’re looking for a festive way to spend a fall Saturday with your furry family members, Dogtoberfest at Freshfields Village is the perfect outing! Happening Saturday, October 11, from 11am-3pm, this beloved annual event on Kiawah and Seabrook Islands brings together dogs, owners, and local pet lovers for a full day of fun, community, and tail wags.

The event features adoptable pets from local rescues, live music, a dog costume contest (with prizes for the best-dressed pups 🏆), a wine and craft beer garden, and plenty of opportunities to shop local. Be sure to browse the vendor lineup featuring Dolittle’s, Salt Marsh Animal Hospital, Lowcountry Dog Treats, Lowcountry Dog Magazine, Oliver & Co., and Rainbow Row Fun Design—with even more vendors to be announced soon!

And because no celebration is complete without dessert, don’t forget to swing by Ben & Jerry’s for a special sweet treat made just for your pup. 🍦🐾

Dogtoberfest is free to attend, with proceeds from beverage sales benefiting local pet rescue organizations. It’s one of those feel-good fall events where you can enjoy great weather, great company, and give back to a good cause—all while your dog lives their best life.

So grab your leash, your latte, and your dog’s favorite costume, and head to Freshfields Village this Saturday for a day of community, cuteness, and canine celebration.

👉 Learn more at freshfieldsvillage.com for details about this year’s Dogtoberfest.

RESTAURANT

Ellis Creek Fish Camp

📍 1243 Harbor View Rd, Charleston, SC

If you’re looking for a restaurant that combines Lowcountry charm, waterfront views, and a love for dogs, Ellis Creek Fish Camp on James Island is a must-visit. This laid-back, coastal eatery sits right along the marsh, offering some of the best sunset views in Charleston — and yes, your dog is more than welcome to enjoy it all with you.

The dog-friendly patio is one of the biggest draws, with plenty of space for pups to lounge and soak in the salty breeze. But what really sets this spot apart is their $5 Camp Plates, created just for four-legged guests. Choose from a Puppaccino (liver water, non dairy whipped, biscuit) or the Turkey Dinner (ground turkey, oats, green beans, pumpkin).

Meanwhile, the human menu is a celebration of classic Lowcountry seafood with a modern twist. Highlights include:

  • 🐟 Whole Fried Flounder — light, crispy perfection served with tartar and sides

  • 🦐 Shrimp & Grits — a Charleston staple with smoky sausage and creamy stone-ground grits

  • 🌮 Fish Tacos — blackened catch of the day topped with mango pico and cilantro crema

  • 🍤 Steamed Peel-and-Eat Shrimp — perfect for sharing while you sip on a cold local beer

Pair your meal with one of their signature cocktails — like the Shipwreck Punch or Mint Coconut Mojito — and you’ve got yourself an afternoon that feels equal parts vacation and local hangout.

Ellis Creek Fish Camp is the kind of place where muddy paws, sandy shoes, and salty smiles are all part of the experience. Come for the seafood, stay for the sunset — and bring your best friend along for the fun.

👉🏼 Read more about the experience with dogs at Ellis Creek here.

FEATURED PUP PRESENTED BY SUMMERVILLE WEEKLY

Meet Michigan 🐶

Meet Michigan, the 2-year-old hound mix who has been with Dorchester Paws for over a year!

Meet Michigan, the 2-year-old hound mix who has been with Dorchester Paws for over a year!

From Dorchester Paws:

“What does 14 months mean to Michigan? In the 14 months he’s been in our care, he’s found what kindness feels like from the staff and volunteers who’ve cheered him on, and the fosters who’ve welcomed him into their homes and given him a place to grow. He’s played with doggy friends at the shelter, explored the community, and learned from foster siblings what it means to curl up in a home at night instead of a kennel.

Michi is about 2 years old now. He’s dog-friendly (in fact, his new home must have a dog to make him feel comfortable), house and crate trained, and eager to keep learning. At first, he can be timid but when another dog is nearby, his confidence shines, and you see the goofy, loving boy he is. We so hope this is the month he finds his forever home. 🏡💛

To apply to adopt Michigan, cli!

Love,

Lacey 🐾 & The Berks 👨‍👩‍👦‍👦

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