Fairchild Air Force Base, WA

Pet Parenting in Fairchild Air Force Base, WA: The Good and the Challenging

Nestled in the stunning Pacific Northwest, Fairchild Air Force Base in Washington might not be the first place that comes to mind for pet owners, but this small community has a lot to offer. With stunning landscapes, a tightly-knit community, and proximity to Spokane, Fairchild AFB presents both advantages and challenges for families with dogs or cats. Whether you're considering a move or are already living in this area, let's explore the quality of life here for pet owners.

Living with dogs or cats at Fairchild AFB brings a mix of opportunities and hurdles. From scenic walking trails and pet-friendly cafes to the sometimes limited veterinary services on base, let's delve into what makes this place a haven or a handful for those with furry friends.

• Training Opportunities:
  Fairchild AFB offers a range of dog training facilities, with options both on and off the base. The on-base Family Pet Care Center provides basic obedience classes which are extremely convenient for busy families. For more specialized training, including advanced obedience and agility, Spokane Dog Training Club is just a short drive away in Spokane and has an excellent reputation for molding well-behaved pooches.

• Veterinary Services:
  One of the important factors to consider is veterinary care. Fairchild AFB houses a small veterinary treatment facility that primarily caters to routine vaccinations and wellness checks. However, for more comprehensive services, you would need to venture into Spokane, where clinics like SouthCare Animal Medical Center provide a wide spectrum of treatments, including emergency care and specialized surgeries.

• Outdoor Spaces:
  The lush landscapes of Washington state offer an abundance of outdoor adventures for dogs and their owners. On-base, Fairchild's Dog Park is a securely fenced area where dogs can roam off-leash and make new friends. For those who love hiking, the Spokane River Centennial Trail is a multi-use pathway that stretches for miles and boasts breathtaking views that both you and your pup will enjoy. Sadly, if you have a cat, the outdoor perks might be fewer, but many local neighborhoods have ample yard space for some supervised outdoor time.

• Pet-Friendly Attractions:
  When it comes to socializing and sipping a coffee, you won't be disappointed. In nearby Spokane, The Yards Bruncheon is a popular pet-friendly dining spot where dogs are as welcome as their owners. The Bark, A Rescue Pub is another unique venue that combines a restaurant with pet adoption services, making dining out even more special. Cat owners might find fewer dedicated spaces, but the community generally embraces pets at various establishments.

• Housing:
  Finding pet-friendly housing on or near Fairchild AFB can be a bit of a mixed bag. On-base housing options are typically accommodating, but they do come with restrictions concerning the number, size, and breed of pets. Off-base, there is a better variety of pet-friendly rentals, although these often come with stipulations like pet deposits or monthly pet fees. The surrounding areas offer a more lenient approach, which might appeal to pet owners seeking greater flexibility.

"Fairchild's outdoor spaces and close community feel make it a considerable choice for pet owners, though some services like veterinary care might require a drive."

• Public Transportation:
  Public transportation at Fairchild AFB is not as extensive as it might be in a larger city, which can pose some challenges. Cats and dogs are allowed on STA (Spokane Transit Authority) buses, provided they are in proper carriers. If you rely on public transit, this is something to keep in mind, particularly for larger dogs that won't fit comfortably into a carrier.

• Safety and Security:
  Fairchild AFB is known for its safety, with low crime rates and a strong community vigilance. Animal control services on base are vigilant, ensuring that stray and lost pets are quickly and safely returned to their owners. Spokane also offers robust animal care services, including the Spokane County Regional Animal Protection Service (SCRAPS), which works diligently to ensure the safety and well-being of pets.

• Community Support:
  The spirit of camaraderie is strong at Fairchild AFB, and this extends to the pet-owning community. Pet owners often gather at the on-base dog park or during events like Pet Appreciation Week. Nearby Spokane hosts several pet-related events throughout the year, such as the annual Pet Fest, and dog clubs like Spokane Dog Training Club add to the sense of community.

List of Pros and Cons:

Pros:

1. Beautiful outdoor spaces perfect for walking dogs.
2. Close-knit community fostering strong support among pet owners.
3. Pet-friendly cafes and restaurants, especially in Spokane.
4. Excellent dog training facilities nearby.
5. Secure environment with efficient animal control services.

Cons:

1. Limited on-base veterinary services for more comprehensive pet care.
2. Public transportation may be challenging for large dogs.
3. Restrictions and fees for pet-friendly housing can be a hassle.
4. Fewer cat-specific attractions and outdoor opportunities.
5. Some pet services may require commuting to Spokane.

Fairchild AFB offers a blend of scenic outdoor spaces, strong community support, and a secure environment, making it an appealing choice for pet owners, especially those with dogs. However, limitations in veterinary services, housing restrictions, and reliance on nearby Spokane for certain amenities could be considered potential drawbacks. Overall, this charming Air Force base in Washington provides a good quality of life with a bit of compromise for pet-loving families.