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April 6, 2026 · Guide, Personal

 Baxter Ray’s Guide to Central Texas: His Favorite Local Spots

If you know me, you know Baxter Ray isn’t just my dog… he’s basically my coworker, my shadow, and my very opinionated sidekick.

So today, we’re letting him take over.

Here are Baxter’s favorite places around Temple & Belton, Texas—all dog-approved and momma-approved.


🛁 1. Mobi Dog Spa & Barkery – His Absolute Favorite

📍Mobi Dog Spa & Barkery

This is Baxter’s hot spot. No question.

Baxter sitting next to a skeleton in Mobi Dog.

If he’s not:

  • Living his best life in the Tea Cup Lounge daycare
  • Getting a spa day
  • Or shopping (because yes… he LOVES to shop, he gets that from me 💅)
Merchandise of Mobi Dog

…then we’re probably on the way there.

Brandi Reese and her staff are incredible. I trust them completely, and they spoil Baxter in the best way.

And I’m not exaggerating—
👉 he knows the route and starts getting excited the second we turn onto 31st Street.

Birthday dog cake with Baxters name

2. Barks & Bliss Veterinary Care – Trusted Care (Even If He Disagrees 😅)

📍 Barks & Bliss Veterinary Care – Temple, TX

Now… Baxter would like to formally state that he does not recommend this place.

Baxter at the vets

Why?
👉 Stethoscopes. Needles. Betrayal.

BUT mom says otherwise.

Baxter at the vets

The team at Barks & Bliss has been an absolute God-send for us. With Baxter’s seizures, having a vet we trust has meant everything.

They:

  • Take extra time with him
  • Treat him like more than just a number
  • And genuinely care
Baxter jumping at the vets office

I’ve said it before and I’ll say it again:
👉 If they move… we move. I’m that serious.


3. Cindy P. Canty Fine Art Portraits – Because Your Dog Deserves a Masterpiece

📍 Cindy P. Canty Fine Art Portraits

If you’ve ever wanted a true portrait of your pet, this is your sign.

Cindy is:

  • Incredibly talented
  • Compassionate
  • And truly an artist

She can photograph your pet in her studio and turn it into a painting that literally looks like a photo.

She also offers beautiful memorial pieces, which makes her work even more special.


⛪ 4. Blessing of the Animals at Saint Francis Episcopal Church

📍 Saint Francis Episcopal Church – Temple, TX

Every October, we attend the Blessing of the Animals, and it’s one of the sweetest traditions.

And yes— Baxter is, in fact, raised Episcopal… but all denominations are welcome 😉

It’s such a special, community-centered event and a fun way to celebrate your pets.

Baxter in front of a statue

🌿 5. Miller Springs Park – His Favorite Adventure Spot

📍 Miller Springs Nature Center

When Baxter is feeling rugged, this is where we go.

Miller Springs Park is:

  • Beautiful
  • Well-maintained
  • Perfect for hiking with your pup

He gets to explore, sniff everything in sight, and pretend he’s a wilderness dog…

…and mom approves because it’s clean and safe.


Final Thoughts from Baxter Ray

If you’re moving to Central Texas with pets, just know this:

👉 You (and your fur babies) are going to be very well taken care of here.

Between amazing local businesses, compassionate vets, and pet-friendly spaces, this area makes it easy to feel at home.

And if Baxter had one final note…

More treats. Always more treats.


Thinking About Moving to Temple, Belton or Central Texas?

I help people (and their pets 🐶) find homes they love—and yes, Baxter may or may not be part of the approval committee.

📲 Mallory Anthony, REALTOR®
📞 254-718-2186
🌐https://movewithmallory.net
🔗 https://linktr.ee/movewithmallorytx