Blue Ridge, Georgia hosts several charming festivals, and this year, PawsFest debuts as the only festival created with dogs in mind. It’s just one example of what makes Blue Ridge a good place for seniors exploring assisted living with pets allowed.
Whether you imagine strolling through dog-friendly parks or relaxing over coffee with new friends, Blue Ridge is a place where you can feel right at home.
Are you looking for a community where pets are more than welcome, they’re family? Explore life at North Georgia’s premier dog-friendly retirement community: Blue Ridge Assisted Living and Memory Care.
Pet Ownership for Seniors: Body Benefits
Whether you have one already or you’re considering getting a pet, you may not have thought about the many benefits of pet-friendly senior living. According to the American Heart Association, seniors who own a dog may reduce their risk of dying from a heart attack or stroke by 31%.
Here are a few more positive effects of owning a furry companion:
- Increased physical activity
- Better mobility and balance
- Reduced loneliness
- Lower stress levels
While the last two items on the list may not seem like physical benefits. Both loneliness and stress take a toll on the body. Over time, they can trigger or worsen physical health issues.
Pets Are Good for the Soul
With many scientific studies showing the physical benefits of owning a pet, you may wonder whether a pet helps with emotional health. Most pet owners would answer that question with a resounding “yes!”
We just mentioned lowered stress levels and reduced loneliness, but people who welcome a pet into their lives experience other positive benefits.
The latest Healthy Minds Monthly Poll from the American Psychiatric Association found that 66% of respondents felt spending time with pets made them feel calm, while 63% said their pets are true friends.
What About Emotional Support Pets?
While it’s not uncommon to see veterans or disabled folks walking a service dog, you may not realize there’s a whole other category of helper animals: emotional support pets.
There are legal considerations to bringing an emotional support animal (ESA) into your life. A healthcare provider must sign off on an order saying that a patient needs an ESA. Once you have that prescription in hand, your pet will be legally welcome when you’re out in public.
Pets, in general, can make a meaningful difference in the lives of seniors facing anxiety, depression, or isolation. Many communities, including Blue Ridge Assisted Living and Memory Care, understand the value of assisted living with animals and create environments where pets are welcome.
A Haven for Pet Lovers
Life’s just easier when a place is set up with pets in mind. From daily routines to weekend lounging, a few smart features can make a big difference.
Helpful features for pet owners:
- Ground-level apartments
- Direct access to outdoor spaces
- Easy-to-clean flooring
- Shaded walking paths
- Designated pet relief areas
When you visit Blue Ridge Assisted Living & Memory Care, you’ll notice beautiful grounds and spaces where residents can sit and visit with friends (both human and animal). It’s one of our signature features and something that makes us a favorite dog-friendly retirement community.
We’ve designed our one and two-bedroom apartment homes with spacious interiors. You and your pet will have plenty of room to feel comfortable.
Benefits of Pets in Memory Care
Memory care settings often have more restrictions, so residents usually can’t keep pets in their living spaces. However, many programs include regular visits from therapy animals like dogs and cats to offer comfort and companionship.
Research from Cornell University suggests that interaction with pets may provide cognitive benefits for older adults. Visits can help improve mood and even support memory recall in people with dementia or Alzheimer’s.
Key benefits of pets in memory care include:
- Soothing anxiety and agitation
- Encouraging social engagement
- Supporting gentle physical activity
- Triggering positive memories
- Providing nonverbal comfort
Assisted Living With Pets Allowed: Pet Policies
When you’re preparing for assisted living with animals, keep in mind that the community you choose will have specific pet policies. While most pets will be accepted, it’s important to review any restrictions.
Your new community may have the following policies in place:
Leash Rules
In most communities, ours included, pets must stay on a leash in shared spaces and during walks. Leash use helps keep all residents and staff safe.
Restricted Pets
Reptiles and exotic animals generally don’t make good pets in assisted living communities. Certain large breeds are not a good fit either.
Noise and Untrained Pets
Persistent barking or aggressive behavior isn’t allowed. Owners are responsible for correcting issues through training or professional support.
Vaccinations
Most communities expect your pet to have current vaccinations. Preventive care reduces the risk of illness for both pets and people.
Cleaning Up After Pets
Owners must clean up after their pets in all indoor and outdoor areas. Maintaining cleanliness helps keep the community safe, but it also keeps the grounds looking beautiful.
Getting Ready for the Move
Moving can be stressful, especially for pets who aren’t sure what’s going on. A little planning ahead can help keep things calm and make the transition smoother for everyone.
Start by packing slowly so pets don’t get overwhelmed. Stick to their regular routine as much as possible: walks, feeding times, and quiet time all help keep them grounded.
- Set aside a quiet space on moving day
- Keep familiar items like beds and toys nearby
- Use a sturdy carrier or crate for transport
- Ask your vet about travel stress or medication
- Update tags and microchip info with your new address
Once you’re in your new space, let them explore one room at a time. Some pets settle in right away. Others take a little longer, and that’s okay.
Come Home to Blue Ridge
Our guide provided an overview of how assisted living with pets allowed can be a rewarding experience. Now it’s time to schedule a visit.
Blue Ridge Assisted Living and Memory Care in Blue Ridge, GA, offers modern, pet-friendly apartments in a newly built setting. We even have a full-time activity director to help you find enriching activities for you and your pet.
We hope to see you soon!
