Pet-Friendly Independent Living: What You Should Know

Independent living communities are wonderful places to enjoy the freedom and privacy you’re accustomed to while taking advantage of special perks such as maintenance-free living, social connections, and access to programming. You may worry, though: Does a move to independent living mean giving up your pet?

Whether you already have a pet you love or you’re considering opening your heart and home to a new companion, you’ll be pleased to learn that many independent living communities are pet-friendly.

What “Pet-Friendly Independent Living” Means

As with any type of apartment or townhome, independent living communities can choose to allow or disallow pets. Fortunately, many independent living communities do allow residents to own pets. However, the precise kinds, breeds, sizes, and number of pets allowed may differ. Communities may also differ when it comes to leash policies, pet deposits, and ongoing pet fees.

The most pet-friendly communities will not only allow pets but also provide communal spaces designed with pets and their owners in mind. Pet-friendly independent living creates a welcoming environment for residents and their beloved animal companions.

Benefits of Independent Living with Pets

Pet-friendly communities allow older adults to reap the rich rewards of pet ownership. In many ways, having a pet can amplify the well-being benefits of community living. Consider these ways a pet can enhance your life as you age.

Emotional and Mental Wellness

Pets provide valuable companionship. A wagging tail, soft nuzzle, or steady purr can bring a smile to your face and combat such negative feelings as loneliness or anxiety.

According to the American Heart Association, 95% of pet owners rely on their pets for stress relief. A recent study even determined that pet ownership can increase life satisfaction by a significant 3-4 points on a 7-point scale.

Routine and Activity

At times, caring for pets might seem like a downside to pet ownership. But routine tasks involved in pet care can help you stay active and bring a stronger sense of purpose to each day. Especially if you have a dog, you’ll likely find yourself getting more exercise and fresh air as you take them on walks.

Physical Health

Increased activity isn’t the only physical health benefit of owning pets. Research shows that pet ownership promotes better health outcomes for older adults in a number of ways, including improved heart health, enhanced mobility, and more. If you want to extend your healthspan, owning a pet may help you accomplish that goal.

Social Connection

Pets themselves provide companionship, but they also can encourage connections with other people. Pets bring people together through shared spaces and activities, such as pet play groups, meetups, and parks. Pets also can help break the ice, making it easier to introduce yourself and potentially bond with a neighbor.

Frequently Asked Questions

Current and prospective pet owners may wonder about these aspects of pet-friendly independent living.

Are pets allowed in most independent living communities?

Yes, most independent living communities allow pets. All WesleyLife communities allow independent living residents to have cats and dogs. Residents in other levels of living enjoy routine visits from friendly therapy dogs.

What kinds of pets are typically permitted?

Cats and dogs are the most commonly allowed pets, although many communities have certain breed or size restrictions for dogs. Some communities also may  allow small-breed animals (e.g., hamsters, mice), birds, and fish. Exotic pets typically are not permitted.

What about service animals?

Service animals are not considered pets. Although their owners no doubt regard them similarly, they they serve an important role in supporting people with disabilities. Even communities that do not allow pets are required to make reasonable accommodations for service animals, per the Fair Housing Act.

Do pet policies include extra fees or deposits?

Yes, some pet-friendly independent living communities will require additional payment, possibly in the form of a deposit, monthly fee, or both, to cover pet-related maintenance.

Do assisted living and memory care also allow pets?

Some assisted living communities allow pets, although doing so is less common than in independent living. Memory care communities are less likely to allow pets but tend to prioritize visits from therapy animals.

Choosing a Pet-Friendly Independent Senior Living Community

If pets are important to you, be sure to learn the pet policies for any independent living community you’re considering, including:

• Allowed breeds or size restrictions
• Number of pets allowed
• Pet fee structure

A tour of the community provides the perfect opportunity to ask these questions. While you’re touring, you should also pay attention to pet-friendly amenities on the campus, such as outdoor spaces, walking paths, and pet relief areas. Finally, consider what access is available for support services, such as a veterinarian, kennel, pet supply store, and groomer.

When you’re a pet owner, you are not only choosing your future home, but also your pet’s, so look for a community that will suit you both.

Prioritizing Pet-Friendly Senior Living 

Embracing pet-friendly independent living means enriching your life with the benefits of companionship, enhanced physical activity, and increased social connection. If you want to share your days and your home with a pet, be sure to choose a community with pet policies and amenities that meet your needs.

Want some guidance to help you compare communities? Download our popular “Senior Living Community Evaluation Checklist”!