Virginia Assisted Living

Virginia Assisted Living

Assisted living homes in the state of Virginia are now starting to allow animals such as dogs or cats to move in with their owners. Senior pet owners can expect to find several senior living options nearby that accept pets. There are many reasons why assisted living facilities in Virginia are now welcoming retirees with pets. Numerous studies show that not only do dogs and cats help their elderly owners to stay more active, pet ownership is also associated with better mental and physical health. Elderly pet owners have a lower chance of developing depression later in life. Assisted living residents who move in with a pet companion are happier and less lonely. Pet friendly assisted living facilities in the state of Virginia are increasing in numbers and are starting to offer seniors pet-friendly amenities where seniors can continue enjoying the companionship and unconditional love that their pets give them.

Pet Friendly Assisted Living in Virginia - General Amenities

Virginia assisted living communities that are pet friendly are comparable to standard assisted living homes. You can still expect to receive the same amenities with a few minor differences. 

Do pets pose a problem in terms of noise or damage at an assisted living facility? It helps if the pet has previously lived with the resident beforehand. The more years the better. The transition to living in an assisted living is going to be an adjustment for the cat or dog.

You know your pet the best. Will the animal be able to adjust to being around a lot more people and in a larger complex? Will the pet adjust to not spending as much time outdoors?

These are all questions to consider. Residents at assisted living homes receive daily meals, housekeeping, laundry services, transportation assistance, and other amenities.

Pet Friendly Amenities in Virginia Assisted Living Facilities

When you visit prospective senior living homes ask about their policy regarding pets. If pets are allowed there are several follow up questions you can ask. One of the most important is to find out what features they have reserved for pets.

Some of the top providers are known to schedule activities and exercise classes that involve pets. It gives you a great opportunity to interact with your pet while also engaging with other residents.

Therapy dogs and those that live with an animal offer a social link for all parties involved. Residents that may not have a pet of their own will appreciate saying hello and petting your pet. Fellow pet owners may become good new friends and the animals might feel the same way.

It is important to make sure the outside grounds are accommodating to pets. A fenced area helps keep pets in a safe environment where they can get unleashed and get the necessary amount of exercise. If that doesn’t exist a walking trail on the grounds, or nearby, helps solve this dilemma.

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

The policy regarding pets differs based on the facility. While more assisted living communities in Virginia are starting to adjust their policies on pets there are still some that do not allow pets of any kind. 

If you have a dog that you wish to move in with you make sure that the pet friendly community is not just reserved to cats. If the assisted living facility is dog friendly check to make sure what breeds and size of dogs it allows. Some allow only small dogs.