Discovering New Bern, NC: A Pet-Lover’s Dream City?
New Bern, North Carolina, is a charming city with a rich history, tucked away at the junction of the Neuse and Trent Rivers. While it’s known for its Southern hospitality and picturesque downtown, you may wonder how it stacks up for families with dogs or cats. Whether you own a playful pup or a curious kitty, here’s an in-depth look at the quality of life in New Bern for pet owners.
New Bern offers a lot for pet owners, thanks to its beautiful parks, welcoming community, and a relatively small-town feel that can be very conducive to raising a pet. However, like any place, it also has its challenges. Let’s dive in.
"New Bern’s scenic beauty and friendly atmosphere make it an attractive spot for pet owners; however, it’s essential to weigh both the benefits and drawbacks to understand what life with a pet is truly like here."
Training Opportunities
When it comes to training your dog or cat in New Bern, you'll find several reputable options. For dogs, obedience classes and more specialized training are offered at centers like The Dog House LLC, which provides various courses from beginner obedience to advanced agility. Cats, though less frequent in organized training classes, can benefit from professional behavioral consultations available at some veterinary clinics.
Training classes and workshops, however, are more concentrated for dogs. While this is not unusual, it may be disappointing for those with more particular training needs or those who wish to engage in regular social training activities with their cats.
Veterinary Services
Veterinary services are crucial, and New Bern doesn’t disappoint. Several well-regarded veterinary clinics, such as Craven Animal Hospital and All Creatures Great and Small, are easily accessible. For emergencies, Animal Care Center of New Bern offers 24-hour emergency services, ensuring your pet is covered no matter the time of day.
Specialized animal hospitals, such as specialty care in nearby Greenville, can provide additional peace of mind if your pet requires more complex care. That said, for very specialized treatments, a trip to larger cities like Raleigh might be necessary, but with good local veterinary options, such occasions should be rare.
Outdoor Spaces
One of New Bern’s standout features for dog owners is Union Point Park. This scenic spot offers plenty of room for dogs to run and play with safe, open spaces. The park is well-maintained and frequently visited by local pet owners, making it a perfect spot for your dog to socialize.
For longer walks, the Riverwalk Trail offers beautiful views along the Neuse River. Cats, while typically less amenable to outdoor excursions, may enjoy a stroll with a secure harness along these paths. However, it’s worth noting that there aren’t any cat-specific outdoor spaces in New Bern, which might be a consideration for cat owners used to more developed urban settings.
Pet-Friendly Attractions
Finding welcoming venues for your pets in New Bern adds to the city’s charm. Many local cafes, such as the friendly MJ’s Raw Bar & Grille and Broad Street Takeout, offer pet-friendly outdoor seating. Businesses like Nautical Wheelers even allow well-behaved pets inside.
Dogs, in particular, will enjoy these outings, but it’s worth noting that this friendliness doesn't often extend to indoor spaces for cats. While the town maintains a welcoming atmosphere, cats may not find as many social opportunities as dogs.
Housing
Pet-friendly housing in New Bern is generally accessible, with a good range of pet-welcoming apartments and rental homes. Communities like Colony Village Apartments are known for their pet policies, and landlords are frequently accommodating.
However, pet deposits can vary, sometimes making housing slightly more expensive for pet owners. Also, breed restrictions may apply, which could limit options for some dog owners. For cat owners, the rules are typically more relaxed, but it’s always worth confirming pet policies before signing a lease.
Public Transportation
Public transportation in New Bern is limited given its size, and this extends to pet-friendly options. The CARTS (Craven Area Rural Transit System) does allow pets, but they must be crated, which may not be convenient for all pet owners. The majority of residents, however, rely on car transportation where pets can travel more freely.
Safety and Security
Safety is a significant factor for pet owners, and New Bern generally has a low crime rate, contributing to a sense of security when walking pets or visiting parks. Animal control services are responsive and effective, ensuring a safer environment for both pets and their owners.
Community Support
A supportive community can make a world of difference, and New Bern offers a robust network for pet owners. Clubs like the New Bern Dog Park Association provide excellent networking opportunities and organized events. Regular pet-friendly community events and the local SPCA’s activities further offer venues for socializing and support.
Pros and Cons
Pros:
- Scenic outdoor spaces such as Union Point Park.
- Comprehensive veterinary services.
- Pet-friendly dining venues.
- Strong, supportive pet-owning community.
- Safe city with low crime rates.
Cons:
- Limited specialized training opportunities for pets.
- Moderate public transportation options for pets.
- Pet deposit and breed restrictions may apply in housing.
- Fewer social opportunities for cats compared to dogs.
- Some specialized veterinary care requires travel to larger cities.
Conclusion
In summary, New Bern, NC, delivers a welcoming and nurturing environment for both dogs and cats. With extensive outdoor spaces, dedicated veterinary services, and a supportive community, it’s a city where pet owners can feel at home. While there are some limitations, particularly in specialized training and public transport, the pros largely outweigh the cons. Whether you’re wandering the Riverwalk Trail with your dog or enjoying a pet-friendly café, New Bern proves to be a delightful place for pet lovers.