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With millions of Americans approaching retirement age, pet loving seniors are wondering how to navigate retirement- especially in nursing homes and assisted living facilities- with their beloved canine friends.
Studies have shown that pet ownership can decrease feelings of loneliness, increase social interactions and cognitive function, and decrease the risk of heart disease. All of these are great reasons for seniors to keep their dogs close by as they move to assisted living or retirement communities.
This is very possible, but several things to take into consideration to make this happen.
PICKING A COMMUNITY:
Picking a community that is pet friendly is imperative, so the first step is to talk to the community director about their policies. Ask about size considerations and how the facility handles resident pets. Ask to see a copy of their pet policies and any contracts or rules regarding animals. Most importantly, ask to speak to other pet owning residents and their families about how they navigate having a pet with them.
This last step is one of the most important before making a decision about the community, because it involves what the real experiences are of residents in the community in having pets. A liberal pet policy isn't much good if it means that the people running the facility make it difficult to have pets!
TRANSITIONING:
Once you find a community, begin to consider (or consider for your family member) how you will manage the dog's care. How will the dog get walked (if your family member isn't able)? Who will feed the dog? How will the dog get to the vet or groomer?
Here are a few suggestions:
Walking: If you can, this is the easiest option! But if not, depending on the community policy and configuration, consider pee-pad training the dog or using an attached patio (although you'll usually need to arrange someone to clean this up daily). One of the best solutions is to find a reliable local dog walking service, ask at the front desk first to see if other residents use one service. If not, check Nextdoor, Instagram, or google for local dog walkers. They can often help with some other concerns (see below).
Feeding: Will you be able have a family member bring in dog food? If not, can you arrange to have it shipped direct from a retailer like Chewy?
For daily feeding, can you feed the dog? If not, can you talk to the dog walker about free feeding or feeding the dog for you?
Grooming: One of the easiest options is mobile grooming. These services will come right to the community and groom your dog in a van onsite. Another option would be to see if a local groomer offers pick up and delivery.
Vet Care: Do you have a family member who can help out? Perhaps your dog walker can offer this service too? You can also approach your vet to see if they offer pick up and delivery services, or if they have a vet tech or other employee who can help out.
KEEPING A ROUTINE:
Some of the daily activities that your dog will need can be helpful in keeping you on a routine yourself as your life is transitioning to a new normal.
Having your dog with you can also help you socialize with other residents. Some communities have pet events for residents, and for those residents who don't have pets with them, you'll find yourself very popular! Everyone always wants to pet the dog!
ENRICHMENT ACTIVITIES:
Having a supply of engaging activities for your dog to play with will keep their brains active, even with less outdoor time. This is a big transition for your dog too, and giving them enrichment toys will allow them to use their brains productively. Enrichment toys give your dog a way to THINK and figure out doggie puzzles- this replaces the outdoor sniffing time that your dog may be missing now that they are in a more confined environment.
PLANNING FOR THE FUTURE:
Talk with your family and the facility about what your plan is for when you may need more help with your dog. What happens if you need to go to the hospital? Where will your dog go if you can no longer keep them in the community with you?
Bringing your dog with you as you transition to your next stage of life is very possible with the right preparation and support. It can help you feel more supported, less stressed, and give you a great deal of companionship, love, and aid in maintaining cognitive function.
