As seniors prepare to move from their homes into various types of elder care facilities Vancouver, WA, one of the big questions that comes up is “Are pets allowed?” In many homes pets are an important member of the family, and this becomes a huge part of the decision when choosing a new living situation. The good news is that more and more senior living communities now allow pets.

Pets are important to the mental and physical health of seniors according to the National Institute of Health. Pets provide companionship, unconditional love, encourage physical activity and provide routine for seniors.

After determining if your potential senior living community allows pets, there are more questions to ask: are there restrictions on  the breed, or about size? Are there behavioral rules? Are there additional costs associated with having a pet? Some of the common expectations you will find at elder care facilities include that dogs need to be walked regularly and cats need to be litter box trained. Pets will need to be licensed and up to date on immunizations.

Some facilities offer services that enable residents to continue to keep their pets even as their needs change over time. Some of these services include walking, feeding, and litter box cleaning. Some communities will even work with animals who are exhibiting some behavior problems so that senior residents are able to keep their beloved companions with them.

When the time comes for you to consider a move to an elder care facility in Vancouver, WA and you can’t bear the thought of living without your faithful pet, be sure to look for a home that will welcome that feline or canine member of your family.