Tips for Owning a Dog in Dallas
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Where can you find the nation’s largest art district, Wild Bill’s Western Store, and a unique John F. Kennedy museum? Yep, in Dallas! This vibrant city is home to world class shopping, epic dining, and, of course, the Dallas Cowboys. Not only does this pawsome muttropolis have endless places to explore, it’s also a furrific place to have a four legged family member. Raising a pet in the city can be challenging, especially in such a heavily pupulated place like Dallas. But with a little patience and a lot of local knowledge, you and your pooch will feel right at home. Here are some tips for living with your pup in Dallas.Â
Keep Your Pup Cool
Heat and humidity are a part of Dallas life. Besides the regular warm temperatures throughout the year, this city can experience severe heat waves during the summer. When this happens, keeping your pup cool is job number one. If pawssible, walk your pup in the early morning or later in the evening. Avoid hot pavement and asphalt, since they can burn your pup’s paws. Consider purchasing a cooling vest and make sure your pal always has plenty of cold water to lap up.
Participate in an Athletic Activity
Dallas loves to get your pup involved in sports. Your doggo can join you on the municipal golf courses and driving ranges n this city, so bring your four legged caddy along. Hopefully, they’ll be your lucky charm! If your pooch needs to clear the mind, try dog yoga, or Doga. Take a class at either Craddock Park or Mutts Cantina. If you opt for Mutts Cantina, you can stay for some breakfast while your pup runs around since this is an off leash dog park with a restaurant.
Know the Law
Dallas is a large city with a large pet population. Dallas Animal Services (DAS) works tirelessly to assist pets and their parents. Help them out by following all pet laws, including registering your dog once they turn four months old and keeping them leashed when out in public. DAS offers free Responsible Pet Ownership classes. If you are a new dog owner, attend one of these classes for some puptacular pet infurmation.
Make Use of Pet-Friendly Transportation
Dallas Area Rapid Transit (DART) operates trains and buses throughout Dallas and the surrounding cities. Of course, service animals are welcome to board a bus, or train unconfined. All other animals must be in a rigid pet carrier that locks. Fur-tunately, Efrogs is a free dog friendly shuttle service that circles the downtown area. And if you’re headed to Uptown from downtown, hop on the McKinney Avenue Trolley, a free vintage streetcar that allows furry riders.
Take Time to Exercise your Pooch
Urban pups don’t have the luxury of having a backyard. But these furry city dwellers need exercise just as much as their suburban peers. The good news is Dallas has some pawsome places to walk your pooch. Check out Trinity Skyline Trail, Katy Trail, or Santa Fe Trestle Trail. If your pup wants to run wild, visit one of the many furrific Dallas dog parks.
