Utah Assisted Living

Utah Assisted Living

It is unfair that senior living used to demand that the elderly get separated from their pets when moving into a senior living facility. Many Baby Boomers now have animals that have become part of their family and insisting that they become separated is unfair. Most public housing supports pets under certain stipulations, so why should senior housing be any different?

Pet Friendly Assisted Living in Utah - General Amenities

Assisted living facilities are becoming more pet friendly than ever before. Baby Boomers have more pets than any generation of the elderly and thus more seniors are expecting to move in with a cat or dog.

Pet friendly assisted living in Utah is comparable to regular homes. The same terrific amenities are featured in the complexes.

Residents get access to three quality meals per day, laundry service, help with household chores, assistance getting transportation to appointments, and regularly scheduled programs.

Assisted living communities are really good about trying to get residents involved. There are a number of different activities featured each day whether its exercise classes or crafts. During holidays and other special events there are programs to bring the community together.

Pet Friendly Amenities in Utah Assisted Living Facilities

What can you expect to find at an assisted living home in Utah that allows pets? There are usually some basic amenities that are universal among all types of senior housing.

The most notable one is an outdoor dog park or area reserved for pets. Since private residences in assisted living homes are fairly tight quarters, likely smaller than what your dog was previous used to, it is important to have outside grounds reserved for animals.

A fenced area will allow you to unleash dogs and let them roam. Of course, dogs love exercise and playing so this is a nice feature since the interior of the complex can get stuffy.

Having a dog park is a nice right granted to residents. Usually the only request is that seniors pick up after their pets in order to not abuse the privilege. They should provide some type of waste bag onsite to assist dog owners.

Assisted Living with Pets in Utah - Different Types of Pet Policies

The first step is to make sure that the facility will allow your type of animal. Pet friendly senior housing does not always include every type of pet. Normally cats are allowed in more facilities than dogs. It is because they require a little less time and care, and are also less destructive and noisy.

If the assisted living facility does allow dogs please check to make sure it will allow your particular size dog and breed. Some providers place restrictions on larger dogs (usually over 40 to 50 lbs.) and certain aggressive breeds may be prohibited.

It is generally advised that the pet has previously lived with the senior before and is not new. Pets that are already comfortable with their handler have a greater chance of successfully making the transition to an assisted living community in Utah.