Pets are an integral part of our lives. Some seniors find companionship and comfort in having a pet. When transitioning to senior living, the possibility of having to give up a pet can add to the anxiety of an already stressful situation. Choosing a senior living community that accepts pets may be a good choice, but it’s important to keep in mind some key considerations when doing so. Here, we go over the basics of pet ownership at senior living communities and give you questions to ask before moving to senior living with your pet.

Why pets matter in senior living

Pet ownership at any age is associated with several benefits, but for seniors, the value of having a pet during a time of transition can multiply those benefits. According to the American Humane Society, “Over half of adults aged 50 and older have one or more pets.” Research indicates that pets can have a profoundly positive impact on both mental and physical health in these ways:

• Decreased blood pressure.
• Reduced feelings of anxiety.
• Improved mood.
• Better cognitive function.
• Lower cholesterol levels.
• Increased opportunities for exercise.
• Expanded possibilities for social interaction. 

Do senior living communities allow pets?

Approximately 75% of senior living communities allow pets. However, each senior living community will have specific pet policies (the rules about what is and isn’t allowed regarding pets). When deciding on an appropriate senior living community, ensure you understand the specific pet restrictions and requirements to avoid frustration later. 

Here’s how pet policies typically differ across levels of senior care:

Type of community	Are pets allowed?	Typical policies and considerations
Independent living	✔ Usually allowed	Most flexible: Pets are often welcomed with minimal restrictions. There may be pet walking areas and occasional pet-focused activities. Residents typically must care for their pets independently.
Assisted living	✔ Often allowed	Moderate restrictions: Communities may limit size, breed, or number of pets. Some offer support services like pet walking. Residents must demonstrate the ability to care for the pet.
Nursing homes	✘ Rarely allowed	Typically do not allow pets: Cleanliness policies, staffing limitations, and residents’ health needs and physical abilities make it more difficult to have a pet in this setting.

Pet-friendly vs. pet-tolerant senior living

Senior living communities that do allow pets fall under two categories: pet-friendly and pet-tolerant communities.

Pet-friendly senior living

Pet-friendly communities have a more flexible and welcoming policy toward pet ownership. They may also offer these amenities:

• Dog walking areas.
• Pet assistance, including feeding and walking.
• Pet-friendly social events.
• Designated areas for pet exercise and pet relief.
• Flexible rules regarding size, breed, and species.

Pet-tolerant senior living

Pet-tolerant communities allow pets but have stricter rules and fewer accommodations that might include the following:

• Restrictions on size, weight, breed, number, or species. 
• Noise restrictions, such as for barking dogs.
• Pet-restricted common areas, meaning the pet must be mostly confined to the resident’s apartment. (Consider these rules when deciding to bring a larger dog that requires regular exercise, as there may not be dog-friendly common or outdoor areas.)
• Little or no support services for pet care.

What questions should families ask before moving with a pet?

There are many factors to consider when moving a loved one to senior living with their pet. Have a list of questions to ask so you can ensure a safe and smooth process. Here are some suggestions:

• What are the size, weight, number, breed, and species restrictions?
• What are the additional costs of owning a pet? Is there a pet deposit and an additional monthly fee?
• Are pet services such as feeding and walking available? What are the costs?
• If the resident gets sick or is temporarily unable to care for the pet, is support available?
• Is there a safe, designated area for dog walking or pet relief?
• What are some of the reasons someone may be asked to move their pet out of the community? (Examples include inability to care for a pet, complaints from other residents, or noise.)
• What veterinary requirements must the pet meet (e.g., vaccinations)?
• Are there veterinarian services nearby? Is transportation available for those appointments?

Alternatives if a senior can’t bring their pet

If a senior is unable to bring their pet due to community policy or personal limitations, there are still alternatives to maintain a connection with animals. 

• Ask if pet visitation is allowed. Some communities allow regular visits from a resident’s pet or from friends and family who have animals. 
• Arrange off-site visits, such as trips to the pet’s home or a park.

Some senior communities have a “community pet,” such as a dog, bird, fish, or cat, which residents can enjoy without the ongoing responsibility of providing care. These shared pets can provide emotional comfort and social stimulation while being cared for by staff or volunteers.

Assisted living communities and nursing homes also often offer pet therapy, also known as animal-assisted therapy, which can provide some of the same benefits as owning a pet. This is a guided interaction between a person and a trained animal to help improve the person’s physical, emotional, or social well-being. Pet therapy animals are carefully selected and trained to interact safely and gently with people who may have mobility or cognitive challenges. 

Be sure to ask the activities director about other ways residents can engage with animals, such as organized visits to local animal shelters, farms, or zoos.

What happens if the resident’s needs change?

One of the challenges of having a pet in senior living is ensuring the senior’s ability to safely and appropriately care for the animal. Physical limitations, illness, and memory concerns can make it challenging to care for a pet. It’s essential to: 

• Assess the resident’s capabilities before the move.
• Monitor the situation closely so you can intervene if necessary. 
• Have a backup plan in place: Identify family, staff, or third-party individuals who can assume responsibility if needed. 

Planning ahead reduces stress and ensures the pet’s well-being, even if the resident can no longer care for it independently.

Pets can offer significant comfort and companionship for an older adult, which can be especially important during a transition to senior living. With careful planning and the right community, it is possible to continue enjoying the bond between a senior and their pet. However, it’s important to be realistic and proactive. Understand community policies, ask the right questions, and prepare for the future. If bringing a pet isn’t feasible, explore meaningful alternatives. Ultimately, the goal is to support the senior’s well-being, whether or not a pet is part of the picture.

Senior care facility rules and requirements vary based on company-specific policies and state-level regulations. The content above represents common guidelines but may differ from a particular facility’s policies or requirements. To learn the regulations that apply in your state, contact your local Oasis Senior Advisor.