Hey DTLA! It’s Time to Talk About Pet Health in the BIG City

Living in Downtown Los Angeles can be an exciting and bustling experience, but our smartest pets know it’s important to be well taken care of in this fast-paced urban environment. Here’s how Downtown’s smartest pets get by on the day to day.


Run Forest Run!:

For dogs, life is like a box of pavement in the Big City. But thanks to the many smart dogs in Downtown Los Angeles, our pets now have access to plenty of large outdoor spaces for exercise. With 45% of us owning pets, DTLA has almost one dog park in each district, some brought to us by the city, the county and those attached to apartments. These parklets coupled with daily walks provide regular exercise from rolling around in the grass to full-on sprints.

Can’t We All Just Get Along?

Yes. Socialization is key to raising a well-mannered pet. Routine gatherings with familiar dogs at pet parks, dog training classes and at pet-friendly events such as the upcoming Pet Health Expo being held April 14-16 help our pets develop good manners and proper doggie etiquette.

Better Safe than Doggy

Keeping pets on a leash, supervising them closely when outside, and being aware of potential dangers is the key to protecting our pets. Unpredictable Downtown can turn from pet haven to doggie nightmare in an instant. Recently, a pup made the news after consuming a spring mix of weed and cocaine from a homeless encampment in neighboring Silverlake. The poor pooch had to be hospitalized. As odd as it seems, it happens.

Ask an Expert!

Regular check-ups and vaccinations from a veterinarian can prevent and detect potential health problems early, and ensure your pet stays healthy. DTLA’s Pet Health Expo and other community events offer informative information brought to the community by experienced pet health industry professionals.

Mental Stimulation & Brain-Boosting Fun

Providing toys, puzzles, and other forms of mental stimulation can prevent boredom, reduce anxiety and destructive behavior, and keep pets engaged and happy. A little catnip perhaps?

Gourmet Pooch Cuisine

High-quality, balanced pet food provides essential nutrients for pets, helps maintain a healthy weight, and can prevent many health problems. Also, a Feeding Schedule at Mealtime Manners. A regular feeding schedule can help prevent overeating, maintain digestive health, and reduce the likelihood of begging or other behavioral problems.

Perfectly Proportioned Pups Measuring appropriate portions based on your pet’s size and activity level can prevent obesity, digestive problems, and other health issues.

Rescue Rockstars

Adopting a pet in Downtown Los Angeles can provide a loving home for an animal in need, and finding a pet that fits your lifestyle can bring joy and companionship to your life while helping reduce the number of pets in shelters.

Pet Shoes: Stylish and Safe

During hot weather, sidewalks, pavements, and roads can become extremely hot, which can burn a dog’s paws. Dog shoes can provide a layer of protection for the dog’s feet, preventing burns and blisters. Also, pet shoes can help to keep a dog’s paws clean and prevent them from picking up harmful bacteria, chemicals, or toxins that may be present on city streets.

Author: Jackson Roberts

Just a Good Old Man Who Loves His Dogs l jackson@dtla-weekly.com