How Pet Owners Can Find Assisted Living Accommodations

Moving from the comfort of home into an assisted living facility can present a major challenge for many individuals, but the transition can be smoother when pets are involved. Most people are surprised to know that many facilities not only allow pets but actually encourage them for residents, as recent studies have shown that caring for animals is a great way for them to stay in good physical and mental health.

If you or a loved one are in the process of choosing an assisted living location, you should become informed on what to expect when moving in with a beloved pet and learning how to care for your furry friend once you become a resident. This guide, presented to you by Le Pet Luxe, can help you get started on your way.

Schedule a Tour

Every person who is looking for a place to live outside of the home should spend time touring multiple facilities. This can help narrow down available options, and it gives the opportunity to ask specific questions regarding pets:

• Are pets allowed at all?
• Are there size or breed restrictions?
• What veterinary services are required ahead of time?
• Is there any assistance with pet care provided by the facility?
• Aside from pets, is this facility adequately safe for seniors?

Finding safe but pet-friendly accommodations means you'll have to be straightforward regarding what you want and expect moving forward.

Invest in Adequate Pet Training

Assisted living residences often require adequate training before an animal is allowed to live with you. Your cat or dog should, at the least, be reliably potty trained and able to function indoors most of the time.

If you or a parent are contemplating moving with a pet to assisted living, you may want to set aside funds for professional training since it is often physically demanding and requires special knowledge and techniques. Those who instruct pets professionally can help create good behaviors that are compatible with residing in assisted living.

Prepare Financially

Before you move into a pet-friendly nursing home, you need to prepare financially for the cost (not to mention save money for all those dog treats). While many individuals rely on Social Security, retirement funds, and private savings to pay for assisted living, some must first sell their homes to provide the resources to make it possible.

If this is the case for you, be sure to prepare your home for the market by hiring help for repairs and updates to increase the selling price. It may also help to devote some time to things like curb appeal to help your property catch the eye of prospective buyers. Additionally, you may also want help with packing, decluttering, and cleaning. Be sure to include your pet's belongings to help him or her feel at home in your new place.

Have a Backup Plan

There are many benefits that older pet owners may enjoy, including increased longevity and reduced loneliness. However, it is important for those who want to live with their pets in a retirement home to have a backup plan in place. There are times when the animal may need care from someone outside the facility, such as during hospitalizations or if the owner becomes unable to care for the pet. In these cases, it is important that the animal has somewhere to go.

It is possible to take your cat or dog to an assisted living facility with you. Finding the right fit for both of you requires asking pertinent questions, training the animal correctly, and preparing financially to pay for your new home.

Le Pet Luxe is a puppies and adult pet care online store. We offer an exclusive range of luxury dog products to keep your pets healthy and happy, so that you can enjoy many years together. Call (800) 844-4614.