Westerly, RI, USA

Discovering Westerly, RI: A Pet Parent's Perspective

Nestled in the southwestern corner of Rhode Island, Westernly offers a charming blend of New England appeal and modern conveniences. It's a picturesque town known for its stunning beaches, historical landmarks, and friendly community. But what’s it like for families with dogs or cats? If you’re thinking about making Westerly your home or planning a visit, here’s a comprehensive look at what you can expect when living with your furry friends.

Westerly boasts several resources and amenities that cater to pet owners, making it generally attractive to families with dogs or cats. However, like any city, Westerly has its ups and downs when it comes to ensuring a high quality of life for your pets.

Training Opportunities: Sharpening Skills

In Westerly, finding training opportunities for your pet is relatively manageable. The Westerly Animal Hospital and the South County Dog Training Club, located slightly outside the main town area, offer basic obedience classes and specialized training programs. These facilities provide a range of classes from puppy socialization to advanced obedience and agility training.

Another excellent option is Four Footed Family in nearby Mystic, CT, just a short drive from Westerly. This facility not only offers comprehensive dog training but also behavioral consultations and workshops led by certified trainers.

Veterinary Services: Health is Wealth

Ensuring your pet has access to top-notch veterinary services is crucial, and Westerly does not disappoint. Westerly Animal Hospital is well-regarded, offering routine checkups, vaccinations, and emergency care. They also have a team of specialists for more complex health issues that may arise. For critical care, Dunn’s Corners Veterinary Hospital is another valuable resource in the area.

For more specialized services, including exotic pets, you may need to travel to larger nearby cities such as Providence or New Haven. Nonetheless, for routine and emergency care, Westerly has reliable clinics.

Outdoor Spaces: Room to Roam

Westerly shines when it comes to outdoor spaces. Wilcox Park is a gem within the city, offering pet-friendly walking paths and a serene environment for you and your dog to enjoy. The park’s open space is ideal for leisurely strolls or playing fetch.

For a more adventurous outing, head to Napatree Point Conservation Area. This beautiful coastal spot allows dogs on a leash and is an excellent place for long walks along the beach, especially during the off-season.

If you have a cat inclined towards the outdoors, you’ll find quiet, low-traffic neighborhoods and plenty of green spaces for safe, supervised exploration.

"Westerly's outdoor spaces, like Wilcox Park and Napatree Point Conservation Area, offer enriching environments for pets to exercise and socialize."

Pet-Friendly Attractions: Dining and Play

When it comes to pet-friendly venues, Westerly holds its own. The Malted Barley is a local favorite where pets are welcome in the outdoor seating area, allowing you to enjoy a meal or craft beer with your furry companion by your side.

Additionally, the nearby town of Watch Hill offers several pet-friendly cafes and boutiques. While your options might not be as extensive as in a larger metro area, there are still plenty of places to relax and socialise with your pet.

Housing: Finding the Perfect Home

Finding pet-friendly housing can be one of the more challenging aspects of moving to a new city, and Westerly is no exception. While many rental agencies do offer pet-friendly options, they often come with pet deposits and monthly fees. Moreover, some places have size or breed restrictions, so it’s essential to do your research.

On the positive side, Westerly's real estate market offers a variety of housing options, from cozy apartments to larger homes with spacious yards, perfect for pet owners. If you’re considering buying a home, look for properties that already have enclosed yards, which can save you the hassle and expense of installing one yourself.

Public Transportation: Navigating the City

Public transportation in Westerly primarily revolves around the regional bus system. However, pet policies can vary, and larger dogs may not be allowed or might need to be in a carrier. Therefore, it’s advisable to have a car for easier transportation. Fortunately, Westerly’s compact size makes it easy to get around with your pet, whether you're heading to a park, a vet, or a pet-friendly café.

Safety and Security: Keeping Pets Safe

Westerly is generally considered a safe community, with relatively low crime rates. The town has an active animal control department that ensures stray animals are taken care of and that the community adheres to pet regulations. This contributes to an overall sense of security for pet owners.

Community Support: Building Connections

Westerly's community support for pet owners is robust. The Westerly Animal Shelter not only provides adoption services but also hosts events like rabies clinics and pet safety seminars. There are also several local pet clubs and online forums where residents can share advice and organise meetups.

Pros and Cons

Pros:

1. Easily accessible outdoor spaces like Wilcox Park and Napatree Point.
2. Reliable veterinary clinics and emergency services.
3. A selection of pet-friendly cafes and restaurants.
4. Various training opportunities within and near the city.
5. Active community support with events and clubs.

Cons:

1. Limited public transportation options for larger pets.
2. Some restrictive rental housing policies regarding pets.
3. Specialized veterinary services may require travel to nearby cities.
4. Fewer indoor pet-friendly activities, especially during winter.
5. Pet deposits and monthly fees can add up in rental agreements.

Westerly, RI, offers a pleasant quality of life for families with dogs or cats, thanks to its mix of outdoor spaces, reliable veterinary care, and a supportive community. While there are some challenges, particularly with public transportation and housing, the overall environment makes it a welcoming place for pet owners.