Lubbock has earned itself a truly unusual — and surprisingly heartwarming — distinction.
I had just wrapped up writing a post about how the Hub City landed among the least fun cities in America (an assessment based on cold metrics and outside perspectives), when something very different crossed my feed. And honestly? This one made me smile.
According to PetSmart’s list of the “Top 15 Festive Pet Cities,” Lubbock ranks an impressive #7 nationwide. In a season where the city is often criticized for what it lacks, this recognition reminds us of something Lubbock clearly does have: people who love their animals.
Now let’s be clear — this isn’t a scientific study with lab coats and clipboards. The rankings were determined by holiday-themed pet purchase data, meaning the cities whose residents bought the most festive items for their pets came out on top. Translation: Lubbock residents spoil their pets, and apparently at a national level.
Lubbock Pet Owners Show Serious Holiday Spirit
For a city that often gets knocked for struggling with stray populations and animal welfare challenges, this ranking matters. It shows that many Lubbock residents don’t just see pets as animals — they see them as family. Holiday sweaters, toys, beds, treats, and décor aren’t necessities; they’re acts of affection. And enough people here participated to put Lubbock in the top ten.
That matters.
At times, it’s easy to feel discouraged by visible issues like strays or shelter overcrowding. Those concerns are real, and they shouldn’t be ignored. But this ranking proves something important: the foundation of compassion already exists here.
Helping Pets In Lubbock Goes Beyond Holiday Treats
We can absolutely celebrate this ranking — and we should — but it’s also a moment to reflect. Supporting animal welfare goes beyond festive spending. It starts with responsible pet ownership: spaying and neutering, microchipping, and adopting instead of buying when possible.
Believe it or not, Lubbock exports pets to other cities where demand exceeds supply. That’s a wonderful thing — it saves lives — but it also highlights that other communities have managed pet population issues more effectively. There’s room for growth here, and progress starts at home.
If Lubbock can rank among the most festive pet cities in America, it shows the heart is already in the right place. With a little more responsibility and community effort, the Hub City can become just as well-known for its animal care as it is for its holiday cheer.
And honestly? That feels like a distinction worth earning.
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Gallery Credit: Nessmania
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Gallery Credit: Renee Raven