Burlington, NJ

A Dog-Lover's Guide to Burlington, NJ: Pros and Cons of Living with a Canine Companion

Nestled along the Delaware River, Burlington, NJ is a city rich in history and adorned with charming colonial architecture. While it may be a small municipality, Burlington has much to offer for families with dogs, from picturesque outdoor spaces to ample community activities. But as with any locale, there are both perks and drawbacks to calling this place home when you have a four-legged friend. Let’s delve into what makes Burlington, NJ tick for dog owners.

When moving to a new city, especially with a furry family member, it's crucial to consider what kind of life you both will have. Burlington offers a cozy, small-town atmosphere but being part of the larger Philadelphia metropolitan area, it also provides access to extensive urban amenities. The city's vibe is inviting, but let's dig deeper into what it truly offers for dog owners.

"Quality of life is largely measured by how easily one can integrate their pet into their daily routine, and Burlington offers a delightful, though nuanced, mix of features for dog-owning families."

• Training Opportunities

Training your dog is a cornerstone of responsible pet ownership, and Burlington has several options in this category. Locally, you can find the Burlington County Kennel Club, which offers obedience courses and dog shows. For more specialized training, you’ll likely need to venture into nearby cities like Cherry Hill or even Philadelphia.

However, the lack of abundant, diverse training opportunities within the immediate vicinity of Burlington is a drawback. While accessible, traveling frequently for these services can be a bit of a hassle.

• Veterinary Services

A critical aspect for any dog owner is access to quality veterinary care. Burlington boasts several veterinary clinics that offer comprehensive services. Burlington Veterinary Center is highly praised for its competent staff and range of services, including emergency care. If more specialized care is needed, such as neurology or advanced surgery, you have the option of traveling to Mount Laurel Animal Hospital, which is approximately a 20-minute drive away.

While Burlington has decent veterinary services, the need for specialized care often means traveling outside the city. However, this is a common scenario for small towns and shouldn't deter potential new residents.

• Outdoor Spaces

Outdoor spaces are abundant and beautiful in Burlington. Prominent among them is the Burlington Riverfront Promenade, an excellent place for a leisurely walk with your dog while enjoying views of the Delaware River. Not far off, Green Acres Park provides large open fields perfect for running and playing. For a more intensive workout or scenic hike, Historic Smithville Park in nearby Eastampton offers extensive trails and beautiful natural scenery.

One downside is that dogs must be leashed in most public spaces, which may limit their ability to run freely. There is also a relative lack of dedicated, fenced-in dog parks within the city itself.

• Dog-Friendly Attractions

Burlington is making strides in creating dog-friendly environments. Numerous cafes and restaurants in the downtown area have outdoor seating where dogs are welcome. The Third State Brewing even allows well-behaved dogs inside, making it a popular spot for pet owners.

While these attractions benefit dog enthusiasts, a more extensive list of pet-friendly places, like those found in larger cities, would be a more compelling draw.

• Housing

Locating pet-friendly housing in Burlington isn’t usually a problem, with many rentals and properties actively welcoming pets. However, as with many places, pet deposits, restrictions on breed and size, and sometimes higher rents can be hurdles. It's essential to check leasing agreements carefully.

The affordability of these options is generally more approachable than in urban hotspots, making Burlington a more economical choice for those on a budget.

• Public Transportation

Public transportation in Burlington is limited but manageable. New Jersey Transit buses connect to the River LINE light rail, allowing pet owners to get around, albeit with some restrictions. Small pets in carriers are permitted on most public transit, but larger dogs might pose a challenge, particularly during peak travel times.

• Safety and Security

Burlington remains a relatively safe area with low crime rates compared to national averages. Furthermore, the city is proactive in animal control and pet safety services. The presence of Burlington County Animal Shelter ensures stray or lost pets find safe haven.

• Community Support

The dog-loving community in Burlington is warm and welcoming. Social media groups, dog clubs, and periodic pet-related events ensure that you and your dog remain socially active. Events such as the annual Dog Day at Crystal Lake Park offer great opportunities for socialization and fun.

Pros:

1. Cozy, dog-friendly community.
2. Access to quality veterinary services.
3. Various walking trails and outdoor spaces.
4. Dog-friendly cafes and venues.
5. Relatively low crime rates and good animal control.

Cons:

1. Limited training opportunities within the city.
2. Specialized veterinary care requires travel.
3. Few fenced-in dog parks.
4. Restrictions in public transportation for larger dogs.
5. Sometimes higher rents and pet deposits.

In Conclusion

Burlington, NJ offers a mix of charm and practicality for dog owners. While it may require occasional travel for specialized services or training, it more than makes up for it with beautiful outdoor spaces, a dog-friendly community, and the comforting atmosphere of small-town living. If a close-knit, scenic locale appeals to you and your canine companion, Burlington might just be the perfect spot to call home.