Moving to a new place can be exciting, but for pet owners, it also brings fresh challenges in caring for their furry companions. For new residents in Texas, understanding how to keep pets safe and happy in a new environment is key to making the transition smoother. 

Of course, moving homes is often a change and involves the entire family. Often, that family includes four-legged friends. Did you know that in Texas, around 43% of homes raise a dog? It’s not as high as Wyoming, which has a pet ownership rate of 72%. Still, Texas is certainly a state where people really love their pets. 

If you’re moving here, you need to know how to ensure your pet adjusts well to the new environment. Let’s find out how! 

1. Factor in Heat on Walks and Local Identification Rules

Taking your dog out for a walk might seem like a straightforward task, but there’s more to it than simply grabbing a leash and heading out the door. One of the most important things to consider when planning your dog’s walk is the weather. This is especially crucial in Texas, where temperatures can get quite high. 

Walking your dog during the heat of the day can put them at risk of heat stroke, dehydration, and burnt paw pads. According to Violet Crown Veterinary Specialists, a temperature above 85°F is enough to give your dog burnt paws, so be careful.

On another note, you also want to ensure your dog is easily identifiable. This is a legal requirement in many parts of Texas. For instance, in cities like Lakeway, you might face a fine of $50 for pets without traceable identification. Violate this law enough times, and you are looking at a $100 fee. These laws also exist for your dog’s own benefit as well.

Without tags, it’s difficult for someone who finds the dog to contact the owner, leading to prolonged periods of stress, hunger, or exposure to harmful conditions. In the event of an accident, a dog without identification might not be taken to an ER vet in Lakeway immediately. The finder may hesitate to incur medical costs without knowing who is responsible for bearing them.

2. Find Good Vets and Establish a Relationship Early

When moving to a new state like Texas, one of the most critical tasks for pet owners is finding a trustworthy veterinarian and establishing a relationship early. Finding a reputable vet after moving should be a top priority, as waiting until an emergency arises can create unnecessary stress and delay essential care.

Scheduling a check-up shortly after moving allows you to assess the vet’s qualifications, communication style, and how comfortable your pet is in their care. Starting this relationship early also means that you have time to ensure the vet’s approach aligns with your expectations and preferences.

Texas does have certain environmental factors that can affect your dog’s health. A vet who understands these risks is essential. For instance, studies have shown that the prevalence of canine heartworm infection in pet dogs in South Texas was 40.8% among dogs older than six months.

A vet familiar with local conditions will ensure your pet is on preventive medication year-round. Additionally, Texas wildlife like snakes and scorpions can pose a danger to pets. Last year, we saw several reports of dogs dying from rattlesnake bites in Central Texas. Such was the experience that Terry Flaherty had with his 2-year old dog, Maisy, who suffered a rattlesnake bite and passed even after a total of four anti-venom shots.  

It’s not a situation any pet owner wants to go through. Building a good relationship with a vet can have them give you advice or tips for keeping your dog safe. 

3. Explore and Find Pet-Friendly Spaces

One of the most important aspects of helping your pet adjust to a new home is finding pet-friendly spaces where they can exercise, socialize, and stay mentally stimulated. When moving to a new area, they may feel disoriented or anxious due to unfamiliar surroundings. Finding dog parks, walking trails, or open spaces where your dog can explore is essential to helping them settle in.

Of course, you want to be prepared to encounter other pets as well, so ensure yours is properly trained and won’t lunge at passing dogs. In cities like Austin, you often find dogs off-leash everywhere. and you want to be careful about walking your dog outside.   

Dogs can be unpredictable, and if you see an off-leash dog, request the owner to leash it so you can pass by. You could try to walk your dog at night to avoid confrontations. However, if there’s an incident, you would need to find a 24-hour pet hospital in Austin to find help. 

In Texas, communities often host events like “dog days” at local parks, adoption events, or even pet-friendly farmers markets, allowing you to integrate more easily into your surroundings. These can be worth checking out if you’re up for a little socialization.

Frequently Asked Questions

1. What’s the most popular pet in Texas?

The most popular pet in Texas is the dog. With Texas being a large, outdoor-friendly state, dogs are especially favored for their companionship and suitability for activities like hiking and ranch life. They are followed by cats, but dogs remain the top choice among Texas pet owners.

2. What happens if your dog attacks someone in Texas?

If your dog attacks someone in Texas, the legal consequences can vary depending on the severity of the attack and whether the dog has a history of aggression. The state does have a one-bite rule, which means once a dog has shown aggression, the owner is responsible for future incidents. 

3. Are dogs allowed to roam in Texas?

According to Fleming Law, while there are no statewide restrictions, many cities in the state do have specific local laws. You will need to research them based on where you are going to be residing. 

Moving to Texas can feel like a big change, especially if you’re moving in from across the country. It’s normal to worry a little about how your dog will handle the new environment, but hopefully, these tips should help you. Don’t forget to take care of yourself as well. Moving can be stressful, so don’t neglect yourself in all the moving chaos.