During the summer, very hot daytime temperatures can result in heat-related illnesses for people and pets traveling on foot, especially if they are not properly hydrated or acclimatized to the heat. Take shorter walks at cooler times of the day and make sure you and your pup drink lots of water. Thunderstorms and even tornados and flash floods can occur during the warmer months. If these storms are in the area, take shelter, and wait for them to pass. Winters are relatively mild with temperatures usually well above freezing in the daytime, so you don't have to bundle up to take your dog out.
Monte Vista is a historic district with Trinity University on the east side. San Pedro Avenue sits on the west side, West Ashby Place on the south, and East Hildebrandt Avenue on the north side.
Monte Vista was developed between 1890 and 1930 and was an opulent neighborhood with beautiful homes mixed with some moderate dwellings. Homes in the area are single-family houses and architecture is varied and includes Tudor, Queen Anne, Craftsman, Classical Revival, and Spanish Eclectic styles. A homeowners association requires development and renovations in the area to follow strict guidelines to preserve the nature of the community. Private properties are well landscaped with large shade trees and attractive yards and gardens.
Most residential streets have sidewalks with grass berms which create a great walkway for people and pets with trees and grassy areas along the way. There some hills and stone retaining walls that are attractive features in the region, however, hills are not overly steep and do not impede pedestrians and pets.
Lang Field is located in the community. This park is associated with some local sports clubs and has athletic fields and some treed areas with an attractive stone wall along the east side. Also in the community is the Woody Tucker Park which is a green triangle with shade trees and grassy areas you can visit with your dog.
A 20-minute walk to the east and located across the freeway is Brackenridge Park. This is a 343-acre greenway with many amenities and facilities which include a zoo, a museum, gardens, and an outdoor theatre. There are also athletic fields and facilities, shade pavilions, playgrounds, and great walking trails to take your dog for a hike. Some trails are natural surfaced and subject to wet conditions and flash flooding. Depending on recent weather conditions, use caution on dirt surfaced trails.
Dogs must remain leashed in the neighborhood parks and greenways and you should be prepared to clean up after your pet to continue enjoying these greenways.