TL;DR:
- JBLM has several pet-friendly neighborhoods, including Lacey, DuPont, Lakewood, Yelm, and Steilacoom.
- Planning ahead is key. Vet visits, updated IDs, and a comfortable travel setup make relocating smoother.
- Introduce pets gradually when moving in together to reduce stress and avoid conflicts.
- Operation Red Dot specializes in helping military families find homes that fit both their needs and their pets’ needs.
Moving with pets to a new duty station like JBLM can feel a little overwhelming while juggling a PCS checklist and keeping your furry companion calm and happy.
The good news is, when you know where to look, the JBLM area has neighborhoods that make life easier for both service members and their pets.
With the right plan and a little local insight, you can land in a community that fits your lifestyle and keeps your four-legged family members just as comfortable as you are.
Best Pet-Friendly Neighborhoods Near JBLM
If you are moving with pets to JBLM, these neighborhoods are worth exploring for their parks, open spaces, and easy access to base.
Lacey
Lacey offers plenty of green space, walking trails, and fenced yards, making it a great option for active dogs. Many residential areas are within a short drive of JBLM, and you will find local pet stores and veterinary clinics close by.
DuPont
Known for its friendly atmosphere, DuPont is a popular choice for military families relocating with pets. The community features several small parks, safe walking paths, and quick access to JBLM’s main gates.
Lakewood
Lakewood blends city conveniences with pet-friendly perks. You can enjoy nearby off-leash parks, waterfront trails, and a variety of housing styles that suit different pet needs.
Yelm
For families who prefer more space, Yelm offers larger lot sizes and plenty of room for pets to roam. It’s a good fit if you want a balance between open country living and proximity to JBLM.
Tips for Moving with Pets to JBLM
A smooth relocation starts with a plan that keeps your pet’s comfort and safety in mind.
Schedule a Vet Check-Up
Make sure vaccinations are current and ask your veterinarian for copies of medical records. This is also a good time to discuss travel anxiety or motion sickness if your pet has shown signs in the past.
Update identification
Check that your pet’s collar tags and microchip information list your new address and phone number. Accurate identification can be a lifesaver if your pet gets lost during the move.
Set up their new space
Before bringing your pet inside, create a quiet area with their bed, food, and water. Giving them a safe spot helps them adjust faster to unfamiliar surroundings.
Set up grooming appointments in advance
If your pet has regular grooming needs, consider getting on the schedule before you arrive. Grooming services near JBLM can be surprisingly limited, so schedule ahead to make sure you get an appropriately timed appointment.
Moving in Together With Pets
Moving in together is exciting, and having pets in the mix just means a little extra planning. If both of you have animals, let them meet in a neutral spot before move-in and give each one their own space for eating, sleeping, and relaxing until they feel at home.
Set some ground rules early, like which furniture is fair game and when mealtimes happen, so everyone stays on the same page. Make sure your new place has enough room, safe outdoor access, and things to keep pets entertained.
Finding the Perfect Home
Finding a place that works for both you and your pets can make all the difference in settling into life near JBLM. With the right neighborhood and a smooth plan for the move, you can focus on enjoying your new chapter together.
Ready to find that perfect fit? Start your home-buying journey with us at Operation Red Dot, and let’s make it happen.