Taos, NM

Exploring Taos, NM: A Pet Lover’s Paradise

Nestled in the high desert of New Mexico, Taos boasts an impressive blend of cultural richness and natural beauty. But is it a great place to live for dog and cat owners? Whether you're strolling along the historic downtown streets or hiking among the majestic Sangre de Cristo Mountains, Taos offers a plethora of experiences for pets and their owners. Let's delve into what this charming city has to offer for our four-legged family members.

Training Opportunities

Finding quality training for your pets is crucial, and Taos has several excellent options. For dog owners, the Taos Dog Training Club offers obedience classes that cater to dogs of all ages and skill levels. Additionally, Paws for Love training center specializes in both basic and advanced obedience, as well as behavioral correction. Unfortunately, there are fewer options for cat-specific training, but Taos cat owners can find helpful resources and advice at local pet supply shops like Taos Tack & Pet Supply.

Veterinary Services

Taos shines when it comes to veterinary care. The Salazar Road Veterinary Clinic is one of the top choices, providing comprehensive care, emergency services, and even dental care for pets. Taos seems prepared for any pet health emergency with facilities like Taos Vet Clinic, which offers specialized treatments and procedures. However, if specialized animal hospitals are necessary, Albuquerque’s advanced veterinary services are just a two-hour drive away.

Outdoor Spaces

Taos doesn’t fall short on outdoor spaces for your pets. Kit Carson Park is a local favorite, offering wide-open areas perfect for dogs to run and play. For more adventurous souls, the Devisadaro Loop Trail provides a breathtaking hiking experience that both you and your pup can enjoy. Cat owners can also find outdoor enjoyment in their own backyard or safe-for-pets patios, though public, cat-specific outdoor spaces are nonexistent.

Dog or Cat-Friendly Attractions

When it comes to pet-friendly venues, Taos does not disappoint. Numerous cafes like The Coffee Spot welcome dogs on their patios, making it easy to grab your favorite brew while your pup enjoys a cool breeze. Restaurants such as Lambert's of Taos extend their hospitality to well-behaved pets, ensuring that your fur babies can be part of the family dining experience. Cat owners will appreciate the welcoming nature of many local shops and art galleries where leashed cats are often tolerated.

Housing

Finding pet-friendly housing in Taos can be somewhat challenging but not impossible. Many rental properties and Airbnbs welcome pets, although pet deposits and fees can be fairly high. Additionally, homeowners looking to relocate to Taos should conduct thorough research as some Homeowners Associations (HOAs) have restrictions on the number and types of pets allowed.

Public Transportation

Public transportation in Taos is limited, but the existing options are relatively pet-friendly. The Blue Bus (Chile Line Shuttle) allows pets on board as long as they are leashed or in carriers, making it easier to navigate the city without a car. Still, given the town's small size, many residents find it easier to walk or bike, often bringing along a four-legged companion.

Safety and Security

Safety is paramount, and Taos is generally a safe place for pets. Low crime rates and the presence of dedicated animal control services ensure that roaming or lost pets can be safely recovered. However, pet owners should still exercise caution and keep their animals close, especially in open rural areas where wildlife may pose a threat.

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Community Support

The Taos community is exceptionally pet-friendly. The Taos Furry Friends organization hosts events like pet parades, adoption fairs, and meet-up groups that foster camaraderie among pet owners. This strong sense of community is comforting for new residents and provides plenty of opportunities to make new friends, both for you and your pets.

"Taos offers a plethora of experiences for pets and their owners."

• Key Points:
  
  
  
  • Training Opportunities:
    
    
    
    • Access to dog obedience and specialized behavioral correction.
    
    
    • Limited cat-specific training resources available.
    
    
    
    
  
  
  • Veterinary Services:
    
    
    
    • Comprehensive veterinary care and emergency services.
    
    
    • Proximity to advanced services in Albuquerque.
    
    
    
    
  
  
  • Outdoor Spaces:
    
    
    
    • Kit Carson Park and Devisadaro Loop Trail for dog-friendly activities.
    
    
    
    
  
  
  • Dog or Cat-Friendly Attractions:
    
    
    
    • Multiple pet-welcoming cafes and restaurants.
    
    
    • Stores and galleries that are generally tolerant of leashed cats.
    
    
    
    
  
  
  • Housing:
    
    
    
    • Availability of pet-friendly rental properties with potentially high deposits.
    
    
    
    
  
  
  • Public Transportation:
    
    
    
    • Pet-friendly policies of the Blue Bus.
    
    
    
    
  
  
  • Safety and Security:
    
    
    
    • Low crime rates and effective animal control.
    
    
    
    
  
  
  • Community Support:
    
    
    
    • Active pet community with events and groups.
    
    
    
    
  
  
  
  

Additional Insights or Tips

1. 
   

   Seasonal Considerations: Winter snowfalls can be heavy in Taos, so winterizing your pets is advisable. Ensure they have proper gear like booties and coats if they are prone to cold.

   
   


2. 
   

   Local Pet Shops: Support local businesses like Taos Tack & Pet Supply for your pet’s needs. They can offer personalized recommendations and top-notch products.

   
   


3. 
   

   Tourist Season: During peak tourist seasons, downtown areas can get crowded. Be mindful of your pet’s comfort and safety in bustling areas.

   
   

List of Pros and Cons

Pros:

1. Abundant outdoor spaces for dogs.


2. Strong community support and pet-related events.


3. Comprehensive veterinary services.


4. Pet-friendly cafes and restaurants.


5. Low crime rates ensuring pet safety.

Cons:

1. Limited training resources for cats.


2. Pet-friendly housing can be expensive.


3. Limited public transportation options.


4. Seasonal weather can be harsh on pets.


5. Risk of wildlife in rural areas.

In Conclusion

Taos, NM, certainly holds its own as a pet-friendly city, boasting comprehensive veterinary services, abundant outdoor spaces, and a strong sense of community for dog and cat owners alike. While there are challenges, such as pet housing costs and limited feline-specific services, the overall pet-friendly environment and scenic beauty make Taos a remarkable place for pet lovers. Whether you’re a dog lover looking for the next hiking trail or a cat owner searching for a cozy cafe that welcomes whiskers, Taos has something for everyone and their pets.