Having a pet is a great way to stay active during your retirement years. Pets provide companionship and are great to have around at all ages. But what happens when you move into an assisted living community? Here are a few things you should know when you bring your furry friend along.
The Community May Have Pet Rules
If you are looking for an assisted living facility in St. Petersburg, FL, you’ll find that most communities have pet rules. Since you’ll be living near other residents and staff, most communities want to ensure that pets are trained and won’t be a nuisance to other residents.
They may want to check on whether your pet is house trained or not, how much noise it makes, and the status of its vaccinations. There may also be rules for when you can bring your pet outside and which types of visitors can come to assist you with your pet (like dog walkers or veterinarians).
Your Furry Friend May Have Trouble Adjusting
Change can be hard, and that applies to pets as well as people. Your pet will be uprooted from a home they know and placed in a new, unfamiliar environment.
It is not uncommon for some pets to go through a transition period that may include some behavioral issues. But rest assured, most pets get used to their new environment quickly and settle in just fine.
Making New Accommodations
If you have a pet, you probably have a routine established to take care of them, like buying food, walking them, and visiting the vet. When you transition to assisted living or independent living in St. Petersburg, you may need to make some adjustments to this routine.
You may be located further away from the pet store or vet, and you may have to establish a new walking routine that fits your schedule. If you have a dog walker or other staff that assists you with your pet, you’ll need to check with your new community on the best way to continue to get the assistance you need.
Assisted Living Facility in St. Petersburg, FL
St. Petersburg, FL, is a wonderful place for retirees and their pets to settle in. Today, finding an assisted living facility that is right for you is easier than ever. With an abundance of online resources, including virtual tours, you have all of the information you need – right at your fingertips.
