Traveling with pets can make any trip even more special, and Kerrville is a destination that welcomes four-legged family members with open arms. Kerrville offers plenty of pet-friendly parks, trails, shops, and accommodations to ensure both you and your pets have a comfortable and enjoyable stay. Whether you’re planning a weekend getaway or a longer visit, these pet travel tips will help you make the most of your time in Kerrville with your furry companions by your side.
Pre-Travel Planning
Documentation
– Schedule a vet checkup within 10 days of travel and confirm vaccinations are current
-Bring rabies vaccination records and health certificates, especially for out-of-state travelers
– Microchip your pet and use a collar with current ID tags plus a travel tag with your Kerrville lodging contact info
– Carry recent photos of your pet in case they become lost
– Pack copies of all veterinary records and medications
Accommodation Preparation
– Call ahead to confirm pet policies, fees, and any weight or breed restrictions at your chosen lodging
– Book pet-friendly rooms early, as many hotels have limited pet-friendly accommodations
– Ask about pet amenities like food/water bowls, treats, or designated relief areas
– Inquire about nearby dog parks or walking areas
Road Trip Considerations
– Keep pets secured in well-ventilated crates or use harnesses attached to seatbelts
– Plan frequent stops every 2 hours for exercise and bathroom breaks
– Never leave pets unattended in vehicles, especially during hot Texas weather
– Bring familiar bedding, toys, and treats to reduce travel anxiety
– Pack a travel first-aid kit and sufficient food and water for the entire trip
What to Pack
– Extra leashes, collars, and waste bags
– Familiar food (don’t change diet while traveling)
– Medications and first-aid supplies
– Comfort items like favorite toys or blankets
– Portable food and water dishes
– Pet-safe sunscreen for thin-coated or light-colored pets
Flying with a Pet
– Book direct flights when possible to minimize stress and avoid layover complications
– Check with airlines about pet policies, carrier requirements, and health certificate needs
– Consider anti-anxiety options (consult your vet, as tranquilizers are generally not recommended for air travel)
Managing Travel Stress
– Maintain regular feeding schedules as much as possible
– Consider calming aids like anxiety wraps or pheromone sprays for nervous pets
– Allow extra time for pet breaks and don’t over-schedule activities
– Bring familiar items that smell like home to help pets settle in
Kerrville-Specific Considerations
Climate & Weather Awareness
– Texas Hill Country can be very hot in summer; plan outdoor activities for early morning or evening
– Pack plenty of water for both you and your pet during outdoor adventures
– Be aware of seasonal allergens like cedar pollen (December-February) that may affect sensitive pets
– Summer temperatures can make pavement too hot for paw pads; test with your hand before walks
Local Wildlife & Safety
– Hill Country wildlife includes deer, wild boars, snakes, and coyotes; keep pets on leash in natural areas
– Be cautious around the Guadalupe River; not all areas have gentle currents
– Watch for fire ants, especially in grassy areas and parks
– Keep pets away from unfamiliar plants and cacti
Kerrville-Specific Rules
– Familiarize yourself with local leash laws and pet ordinances
– Some city parks may have specific pet restrictions or designated areas
– Respect private property and agricultural areas; don’t let pets roam freely
Dog-Friendly Walking Trails & Parks
Kerrville River Trail: A well-maintained, pet-friendly concrete walkway along the river with benches, doggy waste bag stations, and beautiful river views; Kerrville River Trail is accessible from Louise Hays Park (free) and Kerrville-Schreiner Park
Kerrville-Schreiner Park: 517-acre park welcoming leashed pets on walking trails, with RV camping areas that allow pets
Louise Hays Park: Free access with river trail connections and open green spaces
City parks system: Multiple municipal parks throughout Kerrville with walking paths and
open areas for leashed pets
A leash is required at Louise Hays Park except in the enclosed dog park.
Off-Leash Dog Parks
Flatrock Park
Address: 125 Redemption Rd. Kerrville, TX
Feature: Off-leash dog park where pups can play and socialize
Hours: Open for off-leash play sunrise to sunset
Singing Wind Park Dog Park
Address: 2112 Singing Wind Drive, Kerrville, TX
Feature: Two fenced off-leash areas – one for large dogs and one for smaller dogs
Hours: 7:30am-11pm Monday through Sunday
Note: Two softball fields repurposed as dog parks with fenced areas for the protection of smaller animals
Trails & Parks (Dogs Must Be Leashed)
Kerrville River Trail
Feature: Pet-friendly walking trail along the Guadalupe River
Surface: Smooth, wide concrete walkway
Amenities: Doggy waste bag stations, benches, beautiful river views
Note: Dogs must remain leashed
Singing Wind Park Trails
Feature: 2 miles of hike/bike trails Terrain: Gravel trails through cedar wooded areas and riparian areas
Note: Dogs must remain leashed on trails
Kerrville-Schreiner Park
Address: 2385 Bandera Hwy. Kerrville, TX
Pet Policy: Dog-friendly destination for adventure seekers and their furry exploring buddies
Feature: Leashed pets welcome on walking trails and camping areas
Note: Dogs must remain leashed at all times
Trail Features to Look For:
– Wide, smooth concrete walkways ideal for dogs of all sizes and ages
– Shaded sections providing relief during hot Texas weather
– Regular waste bag stations and disposal receptacles
– Benches for rest breaks during longer walks
– Wildlife viewing opportunities (deer, squirrels, various birds)
River Activities
– Supervise pets closely around water; even good swimmers can get into trouble
– Check current river conditions and water levels before visiting, as the Guadalupe River can vary significantly due to rainfall and dam releases
– Be aware that river flows can change quickly; what seems calm in the morning may have stronger currents later
– Bring fresh water for drinking to prevent pets from drinking river water
– Pack towels for drying off wet pets before getting back in the car
– Monitor weather forecasts as flash flooding can occur in the Hill Country during heavy rains
Downtown & Business Areas
– Research dog-friendly businesses, restaurants, and shops before heading out
– Many downtown areas welcome leashed, well-behaved pets
– Check individual business policies before entering shops or restaurants
Etiquette & Local Regulations
– Always clean up after your pet; carry waste bags everywhere
– Keep pets leashed unless in designated off-leash areas
– Respect “No Pets” signs and policies at certain attractions
– Don’t allow pets to disturb wildlife or other visitors
– Ask permission before letting strangers pet your animal
Local Resources & Emergency Preparedness
– Research and save contact information for local emergency veterinarians before arrival
– Locate the nearest pet supply stores for any forgotten items
– Find dog parks and off-leash areas for exercise opportunities
– Identify 24/7 animal hospitals in the area
Making Memories
– Take advantage of scenic Hill Country backdrops for pet photos
– Visit during wildflower season (spring) for beautiful bluebonnet pictures with your pet
– Explore pet-friendly downtown areas and outdoor dining patios
– Consider hiring a local pet photographer to capture professional memories
Before Heading Home
– Check pets for ticks, burrs, or injuries from outdoor adventures
– Make sure all belongings are packed, including pet items
– Take one final walk or play session to tire out pets for the journey home
– Clean up your accommodation thoroughly to maintain good relationships with pet-
friendly businesses
Following these tips will help ensure a safe, enjoyable visit to Kerrville for both you and your furry companions while showing respect for the local community and environment.
