Moving Into a Senior Living Community With Your Pet: What to Expect

Pet owners know that furry friends bring unconditional love, laughter and endless joy. What you may not know, however, is that the health benefits of pets for seniors are many – which is why most senior living communities gladly welcome pets.

Bringing a beloved pet with you to a senior living community requires some planning and an understanding of community-specific rules, but it can make the transition feel easier and more comforting.

So, what does daily life with a pet look like once you’ve moved in? From morning walks to evening cuddles, here’s a glimpse at what to expect when you bring your furry (or feathered) companion along—and how both of you can thrive together.

Before You & Your Pet Move to Your New Senior Living Community

No matter how well organized, moving day is rarely stress-free—for people or pets. The noise, strangers and constant activity can be overwhelming for animals, sometimes leading them to hide or panic. To keep everyone safe, the ASPCA suggests that you consider having your pet stay with a trusted friend, family member or even a veterinarian or boarding facility until your move is complete. If that’s not an option, create a quiet space for them—whether it’s a crate for a dog, cat or rabbit, a covered cage for a bird, or a closed room where they can retreat so they feel secure and out of harm’s way.

The American Humane Society recommends that, before moving day, you make sure your pets are fitted with collars and ID tags with your name and current cell phone number. Microchipping is also recommended and will serve as a backup if your pet loses its collar.

Keep your pet’s food, bowls, medications, grooming supplies and favorite toys handy for the first few days in your new home. And resist the urge to wash their bedding or blankets before the move. The familiar scent will be a comfort during the transition.

It’s Move-In Day … Welcome!

On move-in day, expect staff to welcome not just you, but your pet as well. If you haven’t already provided them, be sure to bring updated vaccination records and proof of licensing. Some communities may have a “meet and greet” to ensure your pet is comfortable around others.

Settling In to Your Living Community

As you and your pet adjust to a new environment, try to keep their routine as consistent as possible. Stick to familiar feeding times, playtimes, and sleep schedules—even if you’re in a new time zone or setting. This predictability helps reassure pets that they’re safe and cared for.

Don’t forget to update ID tags or microchip information with your new address and contact details. Once you’re settled, explore your new community together in ways that make sense for your pet: daily walks around the grounds for dogs, supervised window views or quiet nooks for cats or a comfortable perch for birds to watch the activity. These small steps help them feel at home.

A Typical Day in the Life of a Pet in a Senior Living Community

Morning
“I wake up when my human does. After breakfast, we head outside for our morning walk. The paths are safe and shaded, and I get to sniff new spots and greet other pets along the way. Sometimes I even meet a new friend!”

Midday
“While my human enjoys an activity or lunch with friends, I curl up in our new apartment with my favorite blanket and toy. It feels cozy and familiar and I know they’ll be back soon. Oftentimes, the staff stops by to say hello and I know I’ll get a few extra scratches or smiles (and sometimes treats).”

Afternoon
“We might explore together—maybe a stroll in the courtyard, a visit to the dog run or just watching the world from a sunny window. I’ve noticed I help my human meet people, too—everyone loves to stop and talk when I’m around. Sometimes there are even special events where all the community pets get together. ”

Evening
“Dinner time! My human always makes sure I eat on schedule. Afterward, we relax together, maybe watching TV or visiting with neighbors. By bedtime, I’m content knowing I’m safe, loved and part of this new community with my favorite person.”

All the Time
“I’m so glad  got to move to this new community. I’ve made lots of new friends – both two- and four-legged. My human is happy, too—because when she’s with me, she smiles more, meets new friends more easily, and feels less alone. Together, we’re both finding our place in this community, side by side.”

Have a Pet Care Plan in Place

Staff in senior living communities are always happy to welcome pets, but their primary role is caring for residents. That’s why most communities ask pet owners to create a pet care plan as an extra layer of reassurance that ensures every animal is looked after, especially if you ever need help during a short illness or a longer-term change. Here’s what a simple plan might include:

1. Designate a caregiver and share details
   Choose a family member, friend, or neighbor who can step in if needed, and provide them with your pet’s daily routine, including feeding times, favorite foods, medications, grooming needs and your veterinarian’s contact information.
2. Prepare a care kit
   Keep food, bowls, medications, toys and bedding in an easy-to-find spot so your pet can be cared for right away.
3. Update identification
   Make sure ID tags and microchip details are current and add your caregiver’s contact information as a backup if possible.
4. Inform your community
   Share your plan with staff so they’ll know who to contact if you ever need help. Knowing your companion will always be in good hands provides peace of mind for you, your loved ones, the community staff and your pet.

For additional tips for creating a pet “estate plan,” visit  bestfriends.org.

Six Frequently Asked Questions

1. Do all senior living communities allow pets?
   Not all do, but many independent living and assisted living communities are pet-friendly. Always confirm policies in advance, as rules about size, breed and number of pets can vary widely.
2. Are there extra fees for pets in senior living?
   Yes, most communities charge pet fees. These may be one-time deposits or monthly charges to cover upkeep of shared spaces. Beyond community fees, don’t forget the ongoing expenses of pet ownership like food, litter, grooming and regular veterinary care Ask about specific costs when comparing pet-friendly senior living options.
3. Are there extra fees for my service animal?
   Service animals are legally protected and must be allowed even in communities that don’t permit pets. Policies and costs can differ widely, so be sure to ask each community for details in advance.
4. Can I bring a cat or bird to a senior living community?
   Many communities welcome cats, birds, and other small pets in addition to dogs. Restrictions usually apply to exotic animals. Check each community’s pet policy for details before moving.
5. What if I can’t care for my pet anymore?
   Most communities require a pet care plan. This designates a trusted caregiver to step in if you’re ill or unable to provide care, ensuring your pet remains safe and loved.
6. What is Pet Therapy?
   Many independent and assisted living communities, as well as some skilled nursing centers offer pet therapy. Pet therapy is a guided interaction between a person and a trained animal to promote comfort, reduce stress and support physical or emotional healing. It’s widely used with seniors for companionship and well-being.

Seniors & Pets: Find Pet Friendly Community

Animal companionship is important to health and happiness, and that’s why most senior living communities are pet-friendly. After all, pets are part of the family too. Use our community locator tool to find a community that fits your needs – and the needs of your furry BFF.

Where You Live Matters

Where You Live Matters is powered by the American Seniors Housing Association (ASHA), a respected voice in the senior housing industry. ASHA primarily focuses on legislative and regulatory advocacy, research, and educational opportunities and networking for senior living executives, so they can better understand the needs of older adults across the country.