Ault, CO

Bringing Home a Pet in Ault, CO: A Comprehensive Guide for Dog and Cat Owners

Nestled in Weld County, Ault, Colorado is a charming town that offers a picturesque, small-town feel while being situated within manageable driving distance from larger cities like Greeley and Fort Collins. For pet owners looking to provide their furry friends with a balanced and happy life, Ault presents some unique opportunities and challenges. Whether you have a puppy bounding with energy or a gentle feline friend, here’s everything you need to know about the quality of life for dogs and cats in Ault, CO.

Ault might be small in size, but it boasts a community vibe that could be perfect for dogs and cats. Veterinary services are relatively easy to access, and outdoor spaces provide both excitement and relaxation for pets. The simplicity of life in Ault can be a great advantage for pets but also comes with a few hurdles. Let's explore what Ault has to offer for the well-being of your pets.

Ault's access to green spaces and pet-friendly face-to-face interactions make it a delightful place for dogs and cats.

Training Opportunities

If you’re a dog owner in Ault, you'll find limited but adequate access to training opportunities. Although Ault doesn’t have a specialized dog training center, nearby Fort Collins offers excellent options such as the “Human-Animal Bond in Colorado” (HABIC), which provides training classes designed to enhance the bond between owner and pet. For cat owners, specific behavioral services are harder to come by, but traveling to larger nearby towns may provide you with the needed resources.

Veterinary Services

Ault boasts a modest selection of veterinary services. For general care, Ault Veterinary Clinic is centrally located and provides services for both dogs and cats. In case of emergencies or specialized care, Colorado State University’s Veterinary Teaching Hospital in Fort Collins is renowned for its highly advanced medical services. The area’s veterinary services ensure that your pet gets immediate attention if needed, making pet ownership in Ault relatively stress-free when it comes to health care.

Outdoor Spaces

One of the standout features of Ault is its access to outdoor spaces. The Ault City Park is a hit among dog owners, offering wide-open spaces for dogs to run and play. While not exclusively a dog park, it's generally dog-friendly and provides a tranquil environment for walks and basic training. For larger and more diverse parks, Island Grove Regional Park in nearby Greeley offers ample off-leash areas and pet-friendly walking trails. Cats can also enjoy the calming open spaces for some safe exploration when taken out on supervised leashes or in carriers.

Pet-Friendly Attractions

Surprisingly, Ault delivers a unique small-town charm through its pet-friendly establishments. While options for pet-friendly cafes are limited, many restaurants with outdoor seating in nearby cities, like The Human Bean in Greeley, welcome pets. This proximity to larger towns means your weekend adventures can be pet-centric and fun-filled. In Fort Collins, you can even visit pet-friendly breweries such as New Belgium Brewing Company where dogs are welcomed with open arms.

Housing

Finding pet-friendly housing in Ault is relatively easier compared to larger cities. Many rental properties and homes for sale come without stringent pet restrictions. However, the low inventory can make it challenging to find the perfect home immediately. Pet deposits and fees are also generally lower compared to metropolitan areas, making it financially feasible for pet owners.

Public Transportation

Public transportation in Ault is somewhat limited, owing to its small-town nature. Pet owners will likely need a private vehicle for transporting their pets around town and to nearby cities. However, the nearby Greeley-Evans Transit (GET) system and some regional transit services allow small pets in carriers, easing the commute for pet owners without personal vehicles.

Safety and Security

Ault is known for its low crime rates, making it a safe environment for pets. However, pet owners should be cautious about wildlife, including foxes and coyotes, especially when taking pets out for late-night walks. The town actively supports animal control services, ensuring lost pets are quickly recovered and that pet safety is maintained across the community.

Community Support

The community in Ault is tight-knit, making it easier for pet owners to connect. While there aren't many pet-specific clubs within Ault, the community often organizes pet-friendly events, especially around holidays. Nearby Fort Collins is home to several pet clubs and frequent events ranging from dog agility courses to cat adoption fairs. This ensures a vibrant social life for both you and your pets.

List of Pros and Cons

Pros:

1. Close-knit, welcoming community.
2. Access to excellent veterinary services within a short drive.
3. Abundance of open, green spaces ideal for both dogs and cats.
4. Affordable pet-friendly housing options.
5. Low crime rates ensuring pet safety.

Cons:

1. Limited immediate training opportunities.
2. Few pet-friendly cafes and restaurants directly within Ault.
3. Limited public transportation options for pets.
4. Risk of wildlife encounters.
5. Lower availability of specialized pet services.

In Conclusion

Ault, CO offers a wholesome and nurturing environment for dogs and cats alike, rooted in its quaint rural charm and strong community ties. While the town itself doesn't boast a plethora of specialized services for pets, its proximity to cities like Fort Collins and Greeley brings a world of opportunities just a short drive away. With ample green spaces, reliable veterinary care, and affordable housing, Ault is a wonderful place for pet owners seeking a quieter, safer living environment for their beloved animals.