Assisted Living With Pets: What Seniors Gain in Kendallville
Recent studies have confirmed what many pet owners already know: animals can positively impact one's health, with research showing that pet owners are more physically active than non-pet owners.
If you are planning your dream retirement in Kendallville, bringing along your best friend seems like the perfect way to enjoy an active and fulfilling retirement. Read on to learn about assisted living with pets and how to find the best pet-friendly senior living community.
Assisted Living With Pets: The Benefits
If you have a pet and want to bring it to your senior living community, you may already be aware of some of the advantages. If it's something you are considering, read on to discover some of the surprising benefits:
Emotional Support Animals
Life has its ups and downs, and even when you no longer face the 9-to-5 grind and are enjoying retirement, there will still be moments of stress and worry. Perhaps you'll have a health scare or feel anxious about moving to a new home.
Pets can be your trusted form of emotional support. The daily presence provides reassurance and can help you feel grounded and calmer.
They Offer Routine
Routine is essential in your senior years because a structured day encourages you to stay active and social. Having to take a dog out for a morning walk or feed a pet cat can help you find purpose in your day and encourage you to create structure. That's important for your emotional and cognitive well-being.
Aging With Pets: Helping You Stay Active
Even on days when you want to rest and watch TV, a pet dog will keep you active, making it almost impossible to avoid a walk in the fresh air. Activity is vital in your later years as it will keep you mobile and improve your balance and strength.
Pets Encourage Social Interaction
It's common to stop and chat with another dog walker when you are out with your pet, and sparking up a conversation like this is a great way to get a bit more social interaction during the day.
Pets are also a natural icebreaker. They'll help you converse with fellow residents in your community, and you might meet like-minded people who adore their pets as much as you do.
Choosing a Pet for Your Assisted Living Apartment
If you want to own a pet in a senior living community, it's a good idea to do some research to help find the perfect match for you. Here are some factors to consider.
Pet-Friendly Senior Living: Checking Policies
Some assisted living communities may have strict rules about the type, breed, and size of pets you can bring. There may also be rules regarding behavior and owner responsibilities, as well as stipulations such as evidence of up-to-date vaccinations.
Always check these before making a decision.
Energy Levels
Some pets have higher energy levels than others, which means they require more active walks and more attention. Cats tend to be relatively low-maintenance, whereas some high-energy dog breeds require a lot of exercise.
Size
Consider your apartment size when selecting dog-friendly housing. A larger animal will require more space, and it may also need access to an outdoor area, such as a patio. Choose a pet that's suitably sized for your living environment.
Features to Consider in a Pet-Friendly Assisted Living Community
You'll want to find the perfect retirement destination for you and your pet. Here are some features to consider when choosing your shortlist:
Outdoor Space
Look for communities that offer plenty of pleasant outdoor spaces for dog walking. You'll want even paths and landscaped gardens to make your community walks enjoyable.
Some communities may also offer practical pet-friendly features around their buildings and gardens, like feeding and grooming stations.
On-Site Services: Kendallville Senior Care
While pet-friendly policies will be a priority for you, don't overlook some of the community amenities that will enable you to enjoy your retirement to the fullest. For example, at Chandler Place, we offer daily activities, a wellness center, a library, and a beautiful courtyard.
A Pet-Friendly Culture
When visiting different communities, speak with residents and staff to get a sense of the atmosphere. You want somewhere that has a pet-friendly culture, where you (and your best friend) will be warmly welcomed into activities and social gatherings.
Proximity to Animal Care Hospitals and Clinics
You'll need to ensure your pet receives the best healthcare, so always check to see if there is a veterinary clinic or animal hospital near your community. Speak to staff in the community for recommendations.
Near Chandler Place, Kendallville, you will find the Tri-State Veterinary Clinic and Kendallville Animal Clinic.
Ensuring a Smooth Transition to Your New Community
If you plan to move into a pet-friendly community, you'll need to take a little extra care with your organization to ensure your pet is settled. This is a significant change for you and your pet, so here are some tips to help ensure it goes smoothly.
First, arrange a visit to the community and bring your pet along. Allowing your pet time to familiarize themselves with the people and smells will help put them at ease when you move.
Next, purchase the necessary equipment for the move, including a pet carrier. Allow your pet to try the carrier so they don't feel too alarmed on moving day when you place them in it.
It's also a good idea to see if a friend or family member can look after your pet on moving day, so you can settle in first and introduce your pet a few days later.
After you move in, be sure to create a designated pet-friendly area in your new apartment. Add your pet's beds and favorite toys, and provide a clean welcome space for their food and water.
Assisted Living With Pets: Explore Chandler Place
Assisted living with pets can be a game-changer for retirees. Pets can help you feel more emotionally resilient, keep you active, and enhance your social life.
Chandler Place Assisted Living in Kendallville is your perfect match if you want assisted living with pets. Book a tour today to discover a community that offers lively social activities, compassionate care, and a welcoming pet-friendly culture.