Hershey, PA, USA

Living with Pets in Hershey, PA: A Comprehensive Guide for Dog and Cat Owners

If you’re considering Hershey, PA as the next hometown for you and your four-legged companion, you’re in for a treat — no pun intended! Hershey, famously known as "The Sweetest Place on Earth,” offers a rich tapestry of pet-friendly amenities, but it also has some quirks that might affect your decision. This charming town, celebrated for its chocolate heritage, is nestled in Central Pennsylvania and serves as a dynamic environment for both dogs and cats to flourish. Let’s dive into what makes Hershey a potentially sweet spot for your pets.

Training Opportunities

Hershey offers a range of local options for dog training, making it easy to nurture a well-behaved pet. Good Dog Rising provides comprehensive training classes, from puppy basics to advanced obedience. For those looking to dive into specialized training, this facility also offers canine sports and behavior modification classes.

The city lacks specialized cat training centers, but local veterinarians and pet stores often offer guidance and resources to cat owners. Given its proximity to larger areas like Harrisburg, it’s feasible to find more specialized training programs if necessary.

Veterinary Services

One of the significant perks of living in Hershey is the access to reputable veterinary clinics and emergency pet care facilities. Hershey Veterinary Hospital and Ani-Care Animal Hospital stand out for their high-quality care and comprehensive services. Moreover, nearby Central PA Animal Hospital and VCA Animal Hospital Harrisburg expand your options for specialized care, such as dermatology, cardiology, and surgical procedures. Emergency services are readily available, ensuring peace of mind if calamity strikes unexpectedly.

Outdoor Spaces

Hershey's outdoor spaces are a haven for dog owners. Shank Park offers extensive walking trails, providing ample opportunity for exercise in a serene setting. Another gem, CocoaBean Dog Park, is a fenced area where dogs can run off-leash and socialize with peers. On the other hand, if you own a cat, it’s commonplace to keep them indoors due to potential dangers. However, the verdant environment offers perfect spots for outdoor enclosures or "catios" to give your feline a taste of the outdoors safely.

"Hershey's CocoaBean Dog Park is a fenced area where dogs can run off-leash and socialize with peers."

Pet-Friendly Attractions

Hershey has a modest, but growing array of pet-friendly attractions. Cocoa Castle, a delightful playground in the area, often welcomes well-behaved dogs on leashes. Ever Grain Brewing Co. in nearby Camp Hill offers a pet-friendly patio where you can enjoy a craft beer with your dog. Unfortunately, there are fewer options for cat-friendly social venues, reflecting a common urban reality where dogs have the edge in public inclusion.

Housing

Finding pet-friendly housing in Hershey can require a bit of effort, though several apartment complexes are welcoming to pets. Heatherwood Apartments and Hershey Plaza Apartments are known for their pet policies, including reasonable pet deposits and fewer restrictions on breeds and sizes. Rental homes generally offer more flexibility, but it's prudent to check individual landlords' rules regarding pets.

Public Transportation

Hershey is predominantly a car-dependent town. Public transportation isn’t as extensive as in larger cities, and while some local transportation options like taxis or ride-sharing services might accommodate pets, there is no formal pet-friendly public transport system. Hence, having a private vehicle is advisable for convenient movement with your pet.

Safety and Security

Hershey boasts low crime rates which contribute positively to the safety of your pets, especially in controlled environments. However, it's essential to keep an eye on smaller pets, particularly in areas near wildlife. The town’s animal control services are responsive, adding a layer of security for community pets.

Community Support

Pet owners in Hershey can join various clubs and attend events dedicated to pet care and networking. The Derry Township Dog Club and regular adoption events hosted by The Humane Society of Harrisburg Area create a strong sense of community among pet owners. These clubs offer excellent opportunities for socialization, advice, and support.

Additional Insights or Tips

If you’re moving to Hershey with a pet, consider integrating into the local pet community early. Engage with local pet owners through social media groups and local meet-ups to get recommendations for the best vets, pet trainers, and more.

For those new to cat ownership in Hershey, set up a comfortable and engaging indoor environment. Given the rural setting, provide stimulation through cat trees, scratch posts, and safe window perches to allow your cat to enjoy the view of the natural surroundings.

Pros and Cons

Pros:

1. High-quality veterinary services
2. Excellent dog parks and outdoor spaces
3. Pet-friendly housing options
4. Tight-knit pet community with clubs and events
5. Low crime rates enhancing overall safety

Cons:

1. Limited public transportation options
2. Few specialized cat training centers
3. Restricted number of pet-friendly attractions for cats
4. Higher pet deposit costs in some housing units
5. Wildlife presence may pose a risk to smaller pets

Living in Hershey, PA with a dog or cat comes with its fair share of delights and challenges. From top-tier veterinary care and engaging dog parks to some limitations in public transportation and pet-friendly venues, this charming town offers a mix of experiences for pet owners. By getting involved with the local pet community and exploring the rich outdoor spaces, you and your furry companion can truly enjoy all that Hershey has to offer.