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Living in Denver with your pet is an adventure, from scaling scenic mountain trails to exploring dog parks, the Mile High City offers endless opportunities for fun.
But, keeping your pet healthy in Denver requires some extra know-how. That's where BetterVet comes in, offering convenient mobile vet services to Denver residents.
This guide will help you tackle Denver's unique pet parent challenges, from dealing with winter dryness to understanding leash laws in different neighborhoods.
Whether you're a long-time resident or a newcomer to the area, let's explore the key strategies for maintaining a healthy pet in Denver.
General Denver Pet Healthcare
Building a healthy life for your pet in Denver requires a solid foundation of preventative care. Here are some important pet health practices to get you started!
- Wellness checkups with a dental exam
- Vaccinations
- Recommended diagnostic testing
- Prescriptions and preventatives
- Nutrition and behavior guidance
Winter Pet Safety in Denver
Denver winters can be challenging for both you and your pets. While the city boasts an average of 300 days of sunshine each year, even in winter, the season also brings freezing temperatures and snowstorms.
These conditions require extra care to keep your dog or cat safe and comfortable. Here are some tips to ensure your pet enjoys the winter wonderland without worries.
- Limit exposure to cold temperatures
- Remove snow, ice, salt, and other ice-melting chemicals from paws
- Use booties or a paw protector
- Use pet-friendly ice melts
- Check under the hood of your car for cats looking to stay warm
- Keep your pet’s fur on the longer side, and consider a pet coat
- Talk to your vet about how much to feed your pet, as pets burn more calories in cold weather
Summer Pet Safety in Denver
Summers in Denver bring sunny days and warm temperatures, perfect for outdoor adventures with your pets. However, the high altitude and dry climate can also bring scorching temperatures. Here are some essential tips to keep your pet cool, hydrated, and safe during Denver's warm season:
- Provide proper hydration in the home and on longer walks/hikes
- Be aware of the signs of heat stroke
- Do not leave your pet in the car if it is over 70 degrees
- Be careful of hot pavement that could burn your pet’s paws
- Keep walks short during the hottest daytime hours
Potential Pet Health Problems in Denver
Denver invites outdoor adventure with many pet-friendly hiking trails and parks, making it an ideal destination for exploring. However, before you embark on a journey, it's important to be aware of Denver's unique pet health challenges.
These would include:
- Rabies
- Ticks
- Blue-Green Algae Poisoning
- Heat exposure
- Bacterial Infection
- Respiratory Viruses
- Grass and foreign bodies in paws
Should My Pet Be Seen by a Veterinarian?
1. Have you noticed changes in your pet’s appetite?
2. Does your pet have diarrhea or loose stools?
3. Have you noticed changes in your pet’s thirst/water consumption?
4. Is your pet having accidents in the house?
5. Is your pet pacing and unable to settle?
6. Is your pet panting more than usual?
7. Is your pet whining or vocalizing more than usual?
8. Is your pet shaking more than usual?
9. Is your pet hiding or avoiding physical contact more than usual?
10. Is your pet more lethargic and sleeping more than usual?
11. Are you concerned about changes in your pet’s behavior?
12. Is your pet scratching their ears?
13. Is your pet licking their paws more than usual?
14. Does your pet have a rash?
15. Is your pet moving more slowly than usual or having a harder time getting up or down?
View Results
Should My Pet Be Seen by a Veterinarian?
1. Have you noticed changes in your pet’s appetite?
2. Does your pet have diarrhea or loose stools?
3. Have you noticed changes in your pet’s thirst/water consumption?
4. Is your pet having accidents in the house?
5. Is your pet pacing and unable to settle?
6. Is your pet panting more than usual?
7. Is your pet whining or vocalizing more than usual?
8. Is your pet shaking more than usual?
9. Is your pet hiding or avoiding physical contact more than usual?
10. Is your pet more lethargic and sleeping more than usual?
11. Are you concerned about changes in your pet’s behavior?
12. Is your pet scratching their ears?
13. Is your pet licking their paws more than usual?
14. Does your pet have a rash?
15. Is your pet moving more slowly than usual or having a harder time getting up or down?
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Recommended Vaccines for Pets
Keeping your pet's vaccinations current is key to their long-term health and wellness. Be sure to consult with one of our Denver veterinarians to ensure your pet's vaccine schedule is on target and personalized just for them, so they are ready to enjoy everything Denver has to offer.
Helpful Articles:
-
Puppy and Dog Vaccinations: Schedule, Types, and Side Effects
-
Kitten and Cat Vaccinations: Schedule, Types, and Side Effects
Recommended Pet Preventatives
With temperatures increasing in Denver, pests and parasites are becoming more common. Because of this trend, we now recommended the following preventatives for our pet patients:
- Fleas
- Ticks
- Heartworm
If you notice any itching, scratching, or unusual behavior in your pet, always consult with a veterinarian or schedule a virtual visit for personalized advice.
Pet Laws and Ordinances in Denver
Multi-Pets
If you are a new pet parent in Denver or thinking about moving there with your pets, you should know that no more than three domestic pets over the age of six months are permitted in most residential zones. Most agricultural zones allow four domestic pets over the age of six months.
City Breed Requirements
Pit bulls are not permitted in Denver unless you are approved for a provisional permit by Denver Animal Protection. You can schedule a breed assessment and apply for a Breed-Restricted Permit on the city of Denver website.
Protecting Your Pet From the Elements
Denver city ordinance requires pets to have a suitable outdoor shelter if left outside. Examples are a doghouse, covered porch, or another structure that provides shade and shelter from the elements.
Pet-Friendly Activities in Denver
Hiking
Denver boasts an array of scenic trails and breathtaking mountains perfect for exploring with your furry friend. One popular hiking destination is Mount Falcon Park, offering picturesque views of the city skyline and the majestic Rocky Mountains. Remember to bring plenty of water and keep your pet on a leash to ensure a safe and enjoyable hike.
Breweries
Many breweries in Denver welcome pets in their outdoor seating areas, allowing you to enjoy a cold craft beer while spending quality time with your canine companion. Check out Alpine Dog Brewing Company for a pet-friendly beer-tasting experience.
Pet Bakeries
Treat your pet to some delicious homemade goodies at pet-friendly bakeries in Denver. Two Pals and a Pup is a local favorite, offering a variety of freshly baked treats for dogs, including gourmet cookies and pupcakes made with all-natural ingredients.
Dog Parks
Denver is home to 13 dog parks, mostly in the northern part of the city. Here's what to know before you visit:
- Locations: Most dog parks are in north Denver, but there are plans for expansion.
- Hours: Parks are open every day. Unlit areas are open from sunrise to sunset, while lit parks are open from 5 am to 11 pm.
Dog Rules:
- Dogs must be spayed/neutered or have a special permit.
- Dogs must be current on rabies and license tags.
- Keep female dogs in heat and unvaccinated puppies on leash at all times.
- You must always be in control of your dog.
- Leash your dog when entering or leaving the park.
- Aggressive dogs are not allowed in any city park.
- Remember! Keep your pet leashed outside designated off-leash areas and clean up after them to maintain the park's cleanliness and safety for all visitors.
Popular off-leash dog parks include:
Stapleton Dog Park at 2002 Spruce Street, Denver, Colorado 80238
Berkeley Dog Park at W. 46th Ave. & Sheridan, Denver, Colorado 80212
Traveling to Denver with Your Pet?
Denver International Airport (DEN) offers a pleasant experience for furry travelers with designated pet relief areas conveniently located throughout the airport. These indoor rooms feature artificial turf flooring, drainage systems, and amenities like sinks and disposal containers, providing a clean and comfortable space for your pet to use before or after your flight.
To ensure a smooth journey:
- Acquire the necessary health certificates from your veterinarian to comply with airline travel regulations
- Consider booking a non-stop flight and avoiding peak travel times to minimize stress on your pet
- Ensure your pet's collar and kennel have identification tags with your contact information and flight details
- If planning international travel with pets, research special vaccination requirements and quarantine regulations for your destination country. Consult your airline or the destination country's embassy for more information
Conclusion
Denver lives up to its reputation as one of the most pet-friendly cities. With numerous parks, trails, and pet-friendly establishments like breweries and bakeries, you and your furry companion will have a blast exploring the city.
With Denver's welcoming atmosphere and outdoor adventures, every moment with your pet becomes special.
Keeping your pet healthy is easy with regular vet checkups, and BetterVet brings personalized care right to your doorstep.
Frequently Asked Questions
Do you need a pet license in Denver?
Yes, pet licenses are required for dogs in Denver. Check the official government website for specific requirements and procedures to obtain a pet license.
Is Denver a good city for dogs?
Denver is popular for dog owners because of its many parks, trails, and businesses that welcome pets. This makes it a great place to live or visit with your furry friend!
What is the pet ownership law in Colorado?
Colorado law permits no more than three to four domestic pets over six months old in most residential zones.
How expensive is having a pet in Denver?
Having a pet in Denver is considered moderately expensive, with moderate costs of living and numerous free parks and trails. For instance, licensing fees are reasonable, ranging from $15 for a one-year license to $40 for a three-year license.
