Pros and Cons of Living in Kansas City as a Pet-Lover

Kansas City is known for its friendly Midwest charm, world-renowned BBQ, and jazz music, but did you know that it's also a great city for pet lovers? With an abundance of parks and trails, dog-friendly businesses, pet-focused events, animal welfare organizations, and a strong community of pet owners, Kansas City has something to offer every pet lover.

Let's explore why Kansas City is a fantastic destination for those who love animals and provide some tips for enjoying the city with your furry friends. Whether you're a lifelong resident or planning a visit, read on to discover why Kansas City is a top pick for pet lovers.

PROS:

1. Pet-friendly atmosphere: Kansas City is renowned for being a pet-friendly city, with a welcoming atmosphere for both locals and visitors with pets. The city boasts over 220 parks and 100 miles of trails, providing ample outdoor space for pets to enjoy exercise and play. Some of the most popular pet-friendly parks and trails include Swope Park, Loose Park, and the Trolley Track Trail. Additionally, Kansas City is home to several dog-friendly restaurants and cafes, such as The Belfry, Bar K, and Blue Koi. These establishments offer outdoor seating areas and even provide water bowls, treats, and toys for your pets. If you're planning a visit to Kansas City with your furry friend, be sure to check out these recommended pet-friendly spots.
   
   
2. Affordable housing: Compared to other major cities in the US, Kansas City has a relatively low cost of living. Our cost of living is 5% lower than the national average. Kansas City Salaries in the area are also quite competitive. When it comes to basic necessities such as food and clothing Kansas City is around 9% less than the national average. This means that you’ll be able to find affordable housing options that allow you to have more space for your pets. The average monthly rent in Kansas City is $1,220 and many landlords in the area are open to renting to tenants with pets; home prices dance around an average price of $318,000. 
   
   
3. Dog-friendly events: Throughout the year, Kansas City hosts many dog-friendly events, such as the Dog-N-Jog 5K, the Pooches in the Park festival, and the Dogtober Fest celebration. These events are a great opportunity to bond with other pet owners and to have fun with your furry friend.
   
   
4. Veterinary care: Kansas City is home to several excellent veterinary clinics and hospitals. This means that you can be confident that your pets will receive top-notch medical care if they need it.
   
   
5. Pet adoption opportunities: If you're looking to add a new furry member to your family, Kansas City has several animal shelters and rescue organizations that offer pet adoption services. Places like the Unleashed KC, the Great Plains SPCA, Wayside Waifs, and KC Pet Project just to name a few.

CONS:

1. Extreme weather: Kansas City can experience extreme weather conditions, including hot summers, cold winters, tornados, and other severe storms, which can be challenging for pets.
   
   
2. Limited public transportation: Most public transportation options in Kansas City require pets to be in carriers, which can be a real pain if you have a larger pet or multiple pets.
   
   
3. Breed restrictions: Some apartments, housing complexes, cities and counties in and around the Kansas City metro area have breed restrictions, which may limit your options if you have certain types of dogs, such as pit bulls or doberman pinschers.
   
   
4. Tick and flea infestations: Kansas City is located in a region with a high prevalence of ticks and fleas, which can pose a health risk to pets. It's important to take preventative measures, such as flea and tick medication, to protect your pets.
   
   
5. Wildlife encounters: Kansas City is home to a variety of wildlife, including coyotes, raccoons, and snakes, which can pose a threat to pets. It's important to take precautions to keep your pets safe, such as keeping them on a leash and avoiding wooded areas.

Overall, Kansas City offers a fantastic blend of Midwestern charm and pet-friendly amenities that make it a top destination for animal lovers. Find your favorite pet-friendly restaurant, trainer, or event here with our Pet-Friendly in KC Finder map!