Bring Your Pet With You!
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Bring Your Pet with You When Moving to an Assisted Living Commabout:blankunity
According to a recent poll on healthy aging, more than 50 percent of Americans between the ages of 50 and 80 are pet owners. Moreover, the benefits of animal ownership are well-established. Pets provide companionship and love, instill a sense of purpose, and reduce stress and blood pressure, among others.
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Given the benefits of pet ownership, it’s not surprising that many assisted living communities are welcoming residents with dogs and cats. If you are an animal owner who is considering a move to one of these facilities, consider appropriate strategies to make the transition as easy as possible for both you and your treasured friend. Pet Lovers Market presents a guide that will make the transition to assisted living with a pet less stressful.
Prepare Financially
For individuals moving to an assisted living residence, finances can be a critical factor in the decision-making process. In addition to comparing the costs of various facilities, you should also calculate your monthly income by adding up all sources of revenue, including Social Security payments, private pension distributions, and investment returns.
Next, if you are selling your home to help finance the move, work with a real estate agent to make sure you receive a fair price. Your agent should also be able to guide you in preparing your home for the market. For example, you may want to consider cost-effective renovations and improvements based on current trends that can increase the value of your home.
Choose the Right Facility
Once you know your budget, it’s time to research assisted living communities to find the perfect fit. While many facilities welcome animals, the rules for pet owners can vary. Learn about the policies for each potential community and ask essential questions.
● Are there any restrictions on animal size or breed?
● Is there a pet deposit or monthly fee?
● Are there vaccine requirements?
● Are pets allowed in the common areas?
● Are there dog parks or other ways for animals to socialize?
● Does the facility offer services such as grooming or dog walking?
● Is personalized pet care assistance available?
By collecting information throughout the process, you can find the residence that best accommodates your unique circumstances.
Help Your Pet Adjust
Because moving can be stressful for pets, stay sensitive to their needs and alert to any potential problems. Planning in advance can aid in your pet’s adjustment process.
● Limit your pet to one room at a time during the adjustment phase.
● Set up a special area in the room with your pet’s bed, toys, and supplies.
● Stay home with your pet.
● Maintain a consistent schedule of feedings, nap times, potty breaks, and exercise.
● Ensure your new home has items with your scent.
Be a Good Neighbor
When you move into a new community, you want to make a good impression. Be a responsible animal owner by always cleaning up after your pet, keeping your dog leashed, and ensuring your furry friend respects personal boundaries.
Assess your pet’s behavior and address any potential issues. For example, when your dog barks, it can disturb the peace and annoy your neighbors. Similarly, if your pet tends to bite people or other animals, it presents a risk to the safety of the community. Online information can help address many behavioral issues, including barking and biting. If problems persist after following the step-by-step instructions, consider hiring a professional dog trainer to help.
Pet ownership is rewarding in many ways. With research and planning, you can find the perfect retirement community for you and your animal, ensure an easy adjustment and help your pet become a welcome member of the community.