Adding a dog-friendly area to a Sarnia beach is being investigated by city staff.
Council has endorsed a motion from Councillor Bill Dennis, asking staff to report back with possible locations, operational issues and costs.
"In my online research, I have found dog-friendly beaches all over Ontario, Canada and the United States," said Dennis. "Right close to home there are dog-friendly areas in the Grand Bend, Ipperwash and Goderich areas."
Councillor Dennis said if other communities are making it work, we should be able to as well.
"I'm hopeful that by reaching out to other communities, who have embraced this opportunity, we can understand this possibility better and not have to re-create the wheel," he said.
Dennis said he believes there are many benefits.
"Not only are dogs considered good for mental health and loneliness, but also sometimes tourists will choose a travel destination on its pet-friendly characteristics," he said.
Staff told council they would be unable to designate a dog-friendly area at Canatara beach if the city wanted to retain its Blue Flag status.
Dogs are also restricted on Grand Bend's main beach in order to keep Blue Flag status there.
Pinery Provincial Park has two dog-friendly beaches.