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Doggone Shopping: Shopping and Events For Our Four-Legged Friends

Jan 27, 2022 01:30PM ● By ANN MARIE O’PHELAN

Going to a shopping center can be a lot of fun. Who doesn’t love to people-watch, window-shop, and be entertained? Our four-legged friends also like it; they get to socialize, check out new scents, and take a nice walk. Plus, let’s not forget they love the car ride getting there. Several shopping malls in Southwest Florida welcome dogs; some also host dog-adoption events. 

Bell Tower in Fort Myers is home to more than 20 stores that allow furry customers inside. Look for the dog-friendly stickers on the doors. Doggie potty stations are available throughout the center. For dog rules, check out belltowerfl.com/petfriendly. Also, Gulf Coast Humane Society (GCHS) hosts a monthly dog adoption event, Yappy Hour, on the second Friday of the month from 6 to 8 pm in the center court of Bell Tower. See gulfcoasthumanesociety.org for more information.  

Although only service animals are allowed at Edison Mall in Fort Myers, GCHS hosts Edison Mall Mutts the second Thursday of every month from 11:30 am. “Several furry ambassadors walk the mall during the event,” says Brian Wierima, GCHS community relations coordinator. Mall Mutts is held in partnership with the Lee County Sheriff's Office Outreach Center—where the event starts and ends. The public is welcome to enjoy donuts and coffee. Mercola Market in Cape Coral also has dog-adoption events. 

 

Ann Marie O’Phelan is a Southwest Florida resident and regular contributor to TOTI Media. 

 

IF YOU GO 

Bell Tower 

Daniels Parkway & US 41, Fort Myers 

239-489-1221; belltowerfl.com 


Edison Mall  

4125 Cleveland Avenue, Fort Myers 

239-939-5464; shopedisonmall.com 


Mercola Market of Cape Coral 

125 SW 3rd Place, Cape Coral 

239-599-9400; mercolamarketcc.com