Los Angeles is warm and sunny and has an array of activities to enjoy with your pup. From hiking to off-leash parks, you’ll never run out of things to do. But, before deciding to get a puppy, it’s good to know some important things about owning a pet where you live. From finding the right vet and places to hang out with other dogs to following law requirements. Below we’ll name a few of the things you should consider when living in LA with your furry friend.

Securing a good vet

When getting a puppy it’s essential to find a vet in Los Angeles that offers a good pet insurance policy, low-cost options, and emergency care. Make sure you book an appointment for your dog’s first vaccination and see whether the vet is the right fit for you and your companion. Note that pet insurance policies are a great tool to save on vet bills.

Pay attention to preventative care by scheduling vet appointments as soon as possible so you can prevent health issues before they become more serious. Note that it’s best to get pet insurance after 6 months since most insurance policies don’t cover pre-existing conditions which can manifest later on.

Follow the law

After the age of 4 months, it’s mandatory for all dogs living in LA to be licensed. Also, they need to be vaccinated and spayed at 4 months of age. The rules requiring dogs to be spayed is to keep the dog population in order and prevent unwanted litter.

Also, LA has a strict lead law, meaning you must keep your dog on a leash that is 2.5 meters, or sometimes less if they’re in the garden or a dog park. Note that it’s illegal to tie up your furry friend for more than 3 hours at a time. Make sure you always carry litter bags and dispose of the waste responsibly, whether you’re at the park or the beach.

Research dog-friendly parks

There are several dog parks in Los Angeles for your doggy to run and exercise. Most parks have off-leash areas where dogs can socialize, but remember that public ones have rules that need to be followed for everyone’s safety and the sanctity of the park. Unvaccinated puppies are not allowed in these parks, meaning only dogs over 4 months that are vaccinated can enter.

Also, the dogs have to wear proper ID tags on their collar. Dog parks in LA forbid the entry of aggressive and vicious dogs, and they only allow neutered dogs. Remember to always pick up after your doggy and dispose of the waste appropriately. In case your puppy is unwell or suffering from a contagious disease, do not bring them to the park.

Find dog-friendly beaches

LA is known for having great beaches, but not all of them are pet-friendly. Note that most county beaches have a no-animal policy, so ensure that you’re visiting a pet-friendly beach before bringing your furry companion with you. The same as dog parks, all pet-friendly beaches in LA require ID tags on the collar. Other rules include picking up after your dog and using proper bins to dispose of the waste.

Also, don’t bring an unvaccinated puppy to a public beach. Look for the signs on the beaches whether you have to keep your dog on a leash or not, and always follow the rules. Some of LA’s most famous pet-friendly beaches include Granada Beach, Rosie’s Dog Beach, Huntington Dog Beach, and Del Mar Beach.

Pets and public transportation

If you like to take your furry friend with you everywhere you go and like to use public transportation, make sure you follow appropriate rules for this. Public transportation in LA including busses, the subway, the bus rapid transit, and the light rail, allow pets, but they must be confined in a carrier at all times.

Some LA transit providers allow small pets in carriers and service dogs, while others only allow service dogs on their buses. For example, Metrolink allows you to take your pet on board as long as it is in a carrier, and the carrier must be kept under the seat or on your lap. Also, there’s no pet fee for taking your pet on Metrolink.

Final thoughts

If you’re just deciding to move to LA with your puppy, or you’re a new pet owner, remember to follow the rules to provide safety for you and your four-legged companion. LA offers many great places to visit with your dog, and knowing the law can help you keep safe from dangers and enjoy exploring. Also, don’t forget to practice proper leash manners, and you might want to find a dog-friendly neighborhood to feel more comfortable.