June 29, 2026
Moving into a senior living community is a major life transition. For older adults who have pets, there are extra layers of concern. Some people don’t even want to spend a single night away from their pets, let alone move some place where their furry (or feathered or scaly) friends are not welcome. Occasionally, the inability to move with their pet can become an impediment to an older adult getting the assistance they need to stay safe. So if that describes you or a loved one, you’ll want to start your senior living search with places that will accommodate you.
Seniors don’t want to be forced to choose between the best senior living community and one that will accommodate their current pets. They also don’t want to be forced to give up or rehome their pets. Older pets, often with their own medical needs, are frequently overlooked in shelters.
Decades ago, pets in senior living would have been a rarity. But more senior living communities are recognizing the benefits of allowing pets to move in with their owners. From lower blood pressure to reduced feelings of loneliness, there are many health benefits associated with pet ownership. Well-behaved pets can bring joy and companionship to not only their owner, but other members of the community—staff included!
“I do think there are real benefits,” said Dani Butler, Community Relations Director at Fieldstone of Yakima. “We have residents who have lost their spouses and simply don’t want to give up their pets. For some of them, their cat sleeps with them every night. That companionship means everything.”
It’s a sentiment she relates to personally. “I’m a pet owner myself,” Butler explained, “so I understand exactly what these animals mean to people.”
Thankfully, many communities have updated their policies to reflect that. Here’s how to find the right fit for you and your pet.
Start with the right questions
Not all “pet-friendly” policies are created equal. Before touring a community, call ahead and ask specifically:
- What types of animals are allowed? (Dogs, cats, birds, fish, reptiles?)
- Are there breed or weight restrictions?
- Is there a pet deposit or monthly pet fee?
- What happens if a resident can no longer care for their pet?
- Are there designated outdoor areas for walking or exercising pets?
- Do pets need to be screened for compatibility ahead of time?
- Could your pet policy change in the future? If so, will current pet residents be “grandfathered” in if the policy changes?
- Do they require a pet insurance policy?
The answers can vary widely from community to community. At Fieldstone of Yakima, for example, Butler is straightforward about what they can and can’t accommodate. “We take cats and dogs—no monkeys, unfortunately,” she laughed. “Cats can live anywhere in the building, but dogs are always in our first-floor rooms that don’t face the front of the building, and we do require a small gate.” Size matters, too. “Realistically, we can only accommodate smaller dogs,” she explained. “Larger animals could represent a fall risk for our residents.”
Common area rules also apply: “Dogs need to be on leashes outside their rooms and can’t be in areas where food is served,” Butler noted. “We want to make sure everyone—pet owners and non-pet owners alike—is comfortable.”
It’s also worth asking if your pet can accompany you on a tour of the community. How staff and current residents respond will tell you a great deal about the true culture around animals, more than any written policy will.
Know your community types
Pet policies can vary a lot depending on the type of senior living arrangement. Independent living communities tend to be the most flexible, often treating pets much like an apartment complex would. The rules at assisted living facilities can vary widely. Some are wonderfully pet-inclusive, while others have stricter limits due to health and safety regulations. Memory care and skilled nursing facilities may have the most restrictions, though many now maintain community pets or allow supervised visits.
Have a back-up plan
One of the most important and often overlooked conversations to have is about contingency planning. What happens if you’re hospitalized, or if your health eventually makes it difficult to walk your dog or clean a litter box? What about if you move through different levels of care? Ask communities whether they offer any pet care assistance and consider whether a trusted family member or friend could step in if needed. Butler acknowledges the topic comes up at Fieldstone, but no pet has ever gone abandoned.
“Most of the time, family members are willing to come in and help out.”
It’s also wise to update your estate planning documents to include your pet. A pet trust or a formal arrangement with a trusted person ensures your companion is cared for no matter what.
Finally, don’t wait to begin your search. Pet-friendly units are often limited, and demand is high. “I really recommend starting the search early,” Butler urged. “We do have a waitlist, and one resident waited more than six months for a pet-friendly apartment that fit her needs.”
You shouldn’t have to choose between the right level of care and keeping your beloved pet. With some upfront research and the right questions, you can find a senior living community that makes room for the whole family. Start the search early, be specific about your needs, and trust your instincts when you walk through the door. Both you and your pet deserve to feel at home.
