Pets bring more than joy – they bring purpose, routine and unconditional love. Whether it’s a playful pup, a cuddly cat or even a gentle fish, caring for a pet enhances your well-being. That’s why Holiday proudly offers pet-friendly senior living communities – because pets are part of the family.
The benefits of pet ownership
Sure, pets are cute. They can also help lower your blood pressure, keep you moving and create opportunities to make new friends.
Studies show pets are good for seniors’ mental health and physical well-being because they:
- Provide affection and companionship
- Reduce loneliness
- Lower stress
- Improve mood
- Create opportunities to connect with others
- Keep owners physically active
- Offer emotional support
“Susie keeps me walking and staying healthy,” says Gertrude, a Holiday resident.
How to choose the right pet for seniors
Dogs are the most common pet in America. If you’re considering a pup, it’s wise to weigh the following.
- Size: Small dogs are more suitable for small spaces, like apartments. They’re also easier to lift and carry when needed.
- Energy level: Do you want a high-energy pet who requires a lot of exercise or a serene, easy-going pal?
- Vocality: Some breeds bark or howl more than others. How close are your neighbors?
- Age: Mature dogs tend to be calmer and may be already trained.
- Health issues: Is the breed you prefer prone to problems that require regular, often costly, medical treatments? Do your research.
- Temperament: Look for mild-mannered, friendly demeanors.
- Grooming needs: Less is more! And how much do they shed?
- Trainability: Can it be done?! Some breeds are trickier than others.
Top 5 small dog breeds perfect for senior living
While some breeds are better suited to seniors in general, personalities vary. Spend time with a dog before welcoming it into your life. Also consider senior dog adoption. An older rescue pup is often a good choice because they’re more mellow, and the animal shelter may know more about their temperament.
- Poodle: Miniature and toy breeds. Intelligent, adaptable, trainable. Curly hypoallergenic coat requires regular grooming.
- Cavalier King Charles Spaniel: Gentle, affectionate. Requires regular grooming.
- Bichon Frise: Loving and playful with a low-maintenance, hypoallergenic coat.
- French bulldog: Smart, lively, loyal. Short-hair coat is virtually maintenance-free.
- Shih Tzu: Affectionate, easy to train. Minimal exercise and grooming needs.
Low-maintenance pets for older people
Dogs make wonderful additions to many lives, but they could pose challenges to those with a disability or mobility issue. If walking a dog outside at least twice a day feels overwhelming, consider a lower-maintenance pet.
- Cats: Personalities vary, but our feline friends are usually affectionate, entertaining and independent. There’s no need to walk your kitty, but litter box management is required.
- Birds: These beautiful creatures offer companionship, intelligence and relative ease of care, depending on the species. Consider noise levels and the need for routine cage cleaning.
- Fish: Gazing at an aquarium filled with colorful fish is calming. Caring for fish is minimal, but regular tank or bowl cleanings are a must.
Bringing a pet home to Holiday by Atria
At Holiday, we understand the important role pets play in our lives and welcome them into our senior living communities. Fluffy and Rover are family – and we’re all about family. See for yourself by visiting a Holiday near you.
You might also like
Want to learn more about life at Holiday?