Owning a pet provides numerous health benefits when you’re a senior. Not only do pets offer companionship, but they also help you stay active and even benefit your mental health. Finding a pet-friendly senior community is a great thing since you can bring your buddy with you.
If you already own a pet, the thought of separating from him when you move to a senior community can be heartbreaking. Luckily, more and more assisted living facilities will allow pets for senior residents. If you want to take your companion with you on the next step in your journey, learn what you should consider in the sections below.
What Makes a Community Pet-Friendly?
The first step is to check whether a senior living community has a clear pet policy in place. You can call local assisted living facilities or use resources like "A Place for Mom" to find dog-friendly communities near you.
If you have a service animal or an emotional support dog, remember that the Fair Housing Act protects your rights. This law ensures that you can often bring your service dog or ESA, even if the community doesn’t typically allow pets.
When considering a dog-friendly senior community, think about amenities that suit dog ownership. Unlike small pets that stay indoors, dogs require outdoor activities. Look for neighborhoods with safe walking areas and nearby parks where your dog can play and exercise.
What Pets Are Best for a Senior Community?
Some senior living facilities accept a wide range of pets. However, it’s more common for a community to restrict certain animals based on their size, weight or breed. SeniorHousingNet points out that you may also need to pay a deposit before you can bring your pet with you. The amount of your deposit may depend on the type of animal you have.
If you currently own a pet, it’s important to consider how he will adjust to life in a new home. Smaller pets will usually be better suited for life in an assisted living facility, as they naturally need less space to live happily. Even if your new community accepts large dogs, your companion might feel cramped in a small living space.
Despite your best efforts, it’s sometimes not possible to bring a pet with you to a senior living community. In such cases, there are several options for rehoming your pet so he can live with another family.
How to Get Settled With Your Pet
Most of the time, transitioning to senior living with a pet is easier if you have owned the pet for a while before moving. Not only will your pet adjust better if he’s already comfortable with you, but it’ll also be easier to settle into life at your new place if you don’t have to worry about training your pet and establishing a routine for the first time.
Upon moving, you will also have to think about your pet’s veterinary needs. For example, it’s usually necessary to show proof that your pet’s vaccinations are up-to-date before you can move in.
You’ll also want to make sure your pet is comfortable in his new home. A snug dog bed can make sleeping easier for your pup. If you’re a cat owner, a self-cleaning litter box can make for simple cleanup, and a cat water fountain can give your feline continuous access to better-tasting and purer water.
Final Thoughts
Transitioning to a senior community doesn't mean leaving behind the companionship and joy your pet brings. Finding a pet-friendly senior community allows you to continue reaping the many health benefits of owning a pet, from improved physical activity to better mental health. While not all facilities allow pets, more options are becoming available, making it easier to keep your furry friend by your side. Whether you already have a dog or are considering getting a new pet, taking the time to research pet-friendly senior living communities and ensuring the right environment for both you and your pet will make the move smoother. With the right planning and a comfortable, supportive living space, both you and your pet can thrive in this new chapter of life.
