New to Arlington, VA with Pets? Start Here
Updated: 6 days ago
Moving to Arlington, Virginia, with a dog or cat?
Whether you're settling into Ballston, Clarendon, Rosslyn, or another neighborhood, preparation can make moving easier.
Here are 7 essentials to help you and your pets feel at home.
1. Know Arlington's Pet Laws
What you need to know:
Dog License: Required for dogs 4 months and older.
Rabies Vaccination: Required for dogs and cats 4 months and older.
Leash Laws: Dogs must be leashed in public, except in designated off-leash areas.
Pet Waste: Always clean up after your dog.
Good to know: Arlington offers lifetime dog licensing. Cats do not require a County pet license.
2. Find a Veterinarian
Establish veterinary care soon after moving.
Local clinics include:
Clarendon Animal Care
Ballston Animal Hospital
Cherrydale Veterinary Clinic
Caring Hands Animal Hospital – Clarendon
Before your first appointment:
Transfer medical records.
Review vaccinations and medications.
Update microchip information.
Save a 24-hour emergency hospital's contact information.
Tip: Confirm emergency services and hours in advance.
3. Check Pet-Friendly Housing Rules
Apartment and condominium policies vary.
Ask about:
Pet fees and restrictions
Designated pet relief areas
Elevator and common-area rules
Visitor parking and garage access
Pet sitter registration requirements
Tip: Get important building policies in writing.
4. Help Your Pet Adjust
Moving can be stressful for pets.
For dogs:
Maintain familiar routines.
Start with short walks.
Introduce new places gradually.
For cats:
Set up a quiet room.
Provide familiar bedding and toys.
Allow exploration when ready.
Fear Free® reminder: Let your pet adjust at their own pace.
5. Explore Arlington's Dog Parks
Popular locations:
Shirlington Dog Park
Fort Ethan Allen Dog Park
Glencarlyn Dog Park
Before visiting:
Check park rules.
Confirm vaccinations.
Supervise interactions.
Bring water and waste bags.
Remember: Not every dog enjoys dog parks. Private walks may be a better fit.
6. Build Your Pet Care Network
Having dependable professionals nearby makes daily life easier.
Consider finding:
A veterinarian
A reward-based trainer
A groomer
A professional pet sitter or dog walker
Look for:
Appropriate training and insurance
Clear communication
Experience with your pet's needs
Safe, low-stress handling
Tip: Arrange pet care before your first trip or vacation.
7. Complete Your Moving Checklist
Don't forget to:
Set up utilities and internet.
Update your mailing address.
Check parking permit requirements.
Register your vehicle.
Update your driver's license.
New to Virginia?
New residents generally have:
30 days: Title and register vehicles.
60 days: Obtain a Virginia driver's license.
Exceptions may apply.
Welcome to Arlington!
Familiar routines and reliable local resources can help your pets settle into their new home.
Need Pet Sitting or Dog Walking?
At Pet Sitting 4 Comfort® (PS4C), our Fear Free® Certified team provides personalized in-home pet care.
Our services include:
Private, one-on-one dog walking
Cat sitting and drop-in visits
Medication assistance
Overnight pet sitting
Time To Pet visit reports
Family-owned since 2016.
Serving: Ballston/Virginia Square • Clarendon/Courthouse • Rosslyn
Our complimentary initial Meet & Greet helps us understand your pet's routine and individual needs.
Helpful Local Resources
Arlington County — Pet regulations and local services.
Animal Welfare League of Arlington — Animal welfare and adoption resources.
Virginia DMV — Vehicle registration and licensing.
PS4C DMV Pet Care Resources — Local veterinary and emergency resources.
Local requirements may change. Check official sources for current information.
Pet Sitting 4 Comfort®
CARING. EXPERIENCED. LOYAL.
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