Questions regarding moving from East coast to LV area, pets, disease, pests, so on. (Pahrump: HOA)

[Evil Wizard Glick]

Hi there
Just hit my sixties partner has a bad back and son has sinus issues.
That made me consider Pahrump as a retirement area.
Who can resist a world famous gun range and retirement communities just outside of Vegas, right?
I have pets. Coming from the humid in summer and dry freezing in winter NYS are there any health issues which may affect them? We have Birds, Cats and Dogs, Chinchilla's and Ferrets. Pretty sure the lizard will be ok. Most are older now but birds have long lives.
I'ver read that the dryness may cause sinusitis in some animals. And, something I can't recall now, regarding people/elevation and lung infections.
I already understand the need for extra water and avoiding heat on paws.
Bit worried about Rattlesnakes and Scorpions. Are there any other pests like sand fleas or ticks that require extra precautions for?
Pretty much everyone is an inside animal, but hey animal lovers always wind up with more in the future. Some of them might enjoy a bit of hiking around the yard or further out.
Are there Avian. or exotic, vets? Would that be a drive to Vegas for a specialist? Or California?
Partner and I are disabled, so steady but small income. Son works in healthcare at present and is flexible regarding employment. Not too worried about the summer heat nor the winter cold. We get subzero days here with frequent blizzards.
While I was perusing the various Pahrump related threads there were discussions regarding which sections get the most wind and the most Scorpions. Any advice?
I've noticed from Google maps that there are various flood/runoff beds. Would those be flood zones, and avoided?
Pahrump's rumored coming water shortage bothers me a bit, but the recent rains look to have filled aquifers. I'm not sure they extend that far though.
With the pain issue obviously there is an interest in recreational/medical Marijuana. Is there a dispensary or is a further drive required for a wider variety of marijuana. Not interested in the high THC so much as the Cannabinoids for pain and anxiety.
What is the internet speed? Gig anywhere?
Night sky must be awesome and great for breaking out the telescope.
Not interested in a HOA either.
How is gardening? What flourishes and what is a waste of time? Is a small greenhouse worth the effort or plot and conyainer better?
Finally, as many seniors I consider going the metal detector route seeking old coins, Gold nuggets and whatevers. Saw some crystal prospecting areas nearby as well. Just how does all that work, does one merely park and wander off in a likely location or join a prospecting group?
Thank You all.