"A tropical location on the water,” is how Sue Randal describes the Village Fish Market in Punta Gorda.

With the million dollar views of the Peace River and folks arriving by boat, Fisherman’s Village can look pretty exclusive.

Now, there's a new shopper in town on four legs.

"When we started, Punta Gorda was not the most dog-friendly city in the whole world,” says Kara Knight with the Salty Paws boutique. "There used to be ‘NO PET’ signs in Fisherman's Village."

In Punta Gorda, those on four paws are welcome to go back-to-school shopping at Fisherman's Village.

"We've gotten dogs allowed in most of the shops and most of the restaurants down here,” Kara says proudly.

Salty Paws has always been open to dogs and their owners, yet in the past Kara says pet owners would carry their dogs through the pier-like shopping complex, so their paws never hit the pavement. The store offers everything a pet parent would want, from tail-wagging clocks to mugs.

Across the way, Sue’s Village Fish Market can take care of lunch for you and your pooch.

"It's a great way for the families to bring their pets with them, especially if you're traveling with an animal."

Dogs are welcome to sit under your table as you dine and enjoy the waterfront view. Servers will even bring your pooch a drink.

Not to be outdone, next door at Scotty's Brewhouse, the newly renovated patio is ready for those on four legs.

"We have dog dishes to provide them with water, so they don't get dehydrated or hot or anything like that,” Kurt Brown with Scotty's Brewhouse said.

Scotty's Brewhouse is known for oversized sandwiches and maybe a handout. When you dine with your dog here, it gives a whole new meaning, to "doggie bag."

There's even room at the bar for your dog. Harpoon Harry's covered patio is perfect on a sunny day.

"Pets deserve the very best,” Sue said.

Know Before You Go:
Fisherman’s Village is a covered, open-air market, with stand-alone restaurants that feature water views and air conditioning.

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