Pet-Friendly Retirement Living: A Guide for Families
Seniors who have pets know that the bond is unbreakable. It’s safe to say that your four-legged companion is a member of your family. You can take your dog for a morning walk or spend a day with your cat who enjoys curling up beside you while you read a book. If you are considering the idea of moving into a retirement community, the question that always gets asked is: “what about my pet”?
The good news is that many independent living communities are allowing pets to move in with you. Not to mention, these pet-friendly communities are becoming more popular and it’s been a blessing for many of those who consider pets a part of their well-being support system. You get security and support in a retirement community that provides you with nothing but the best.
What Are The Benefits Of Living In A Pet-Friendly Retirement Community?
Pets bring you plenty of physical and emotional benefits when it comes to retirement living. Which is why pet-friendly retirement communities are always the best option these days. Here are the following benefits you need to know about:
- Emotional well-being: Caring for your four-legged companion gives you that sense of purpose while also reducing those feelings of loneliness. You’ll feel great every day knowing that they are always there for you.
- Physical activity: Dogs are always the kind of pets that want to be on the move regularly. Who can blame them? They’ll encourage you to get up and move around yourself. Meanwhile, cats can also encourage you to play with them as a gentle way to stay active.
- Social connection: Pets can start conversations almost instantly. Well, they won’t speak the same language as humans do. But whenever you are walking with your pet outdoors or if someone who visits you notices your cat, a conversation about pets begins. That’s when those connections with new friends begin.
As someone who has a pet, you’ll feel at ease knowing you can enjoy the benefits of living your best retirement with your dog or cat. However, independent living apartments and cottages that often allow pets do come with certain policies.
What Are The Common Pet Policies in Independent Living
It should be noted that if you are considering a pet-friendly independent living community, there are policies that need to be followed. Knowing these before you decide on which community fits you best is important. Here are some policies that you may need to look over carefully:
- Types of pets allowed: Some retirement communities may allow dogs, cats, or even small animals like birds and rabbits. Others may have certain pet restrictions. If you are unsure, you can always ask the staff who is knowledgeable in these specific policies.
- Size or breed limits: Pay attention to any weight limits or breed restrictions that may be in place for the safety and comfort of your neighbors.
- Designated pet areas: A retirement community may have on-site walking paths and areas where your pet can relieve themselves.
By understanding these policies ahead of time, you can determine if the retirement living community you are considering may be the best one for you. You may decide on one that may not have restrictions on your pet due to another having one in place.
Preparing Your Pet For The Move
Adjustment periods for transitioning don’t always apply to humans. It can apply to pets as well. You can provide them with the necessary support during the transition process. This includes the following tasks you can do:
- Maintain a routine: Keep feeding them on a regular basis, walking them, and schedule regular playtimes to ensure that they are less stressed.
- Introduce the new space gradually: Allow pets to explore the new space in small doses. This will ensure that they become more comfortable over time.
- Bringing familiar items: This can include their favorite toys, blankets, bedding, and much more.
- Working with staff: Staff members in retirement communities can provide you with guidance to ensure that your pet is safely integrated into their new environment.
Wanting to Downsize With Your Furry Friend but Worried About Finding Any Suitable Pet-Friendly Retirement Community? Consider Lakestone Terrace Independent Living Today
Lakestone Terrace is a pet-friendly retirement community that offers you plenty of amenities, allowing you to live life to the fullest. You may be on walking paths keeping active with your dog walking alongside you. Or you may enjoy a quiet moment with your cat while thinking about what you want to do for the rest of the day. Looking for more information about our community and pet policies? Schedule a tour or contact us today.
