Puppy love

Coming home after a long day is something we all look forward to: a chance to relax, unwind, and enjoy your space.

But for many older adults, even if their space is cozy and comfortable, it can feel like there’s something missing. But it’s not something — it’s someone. Coming home to an empty house can amplify feelings of loneliness and isolation. Sure, they may be able to call their families or spend time visiting with loved ones, but it’s not the same as having someone who greets you at the door each day, welcoming you home.

That’s where a pet companion comes in. Anyone who has shared their home with a pet can tell you their furry companions somehow sense when they’ve had a rough day, and are ready to assist in the form of an enthusiastic greeting and an extra cuddle session.

And it’s not just the cuddles that make a furry friend so essential for many older adults. Studies have shown that pets can reduce feelings of loneliness, give a sense of purpose, improve cognitive health, and increase physical activity in older adults — from daily walks to enrichment exercises, having a pet can make a positive impact in someone’s quality of life.

The community celebrity

“We’ve always had dogs,” says Cor, a resident at Trinity Lodge, with his wife Tilly and their miniature Schnauzer, Heidi. “We loved Trinity Lodge when we toured, but we wouldn’t have considered moving in if we had to leave Heidi behind. She’s part of our family.” Cor adds, “We take her for walks three times a day. It keeps us active and moving. And when we get home, we all enjoy relaxing together. We love her so much.” Tilly laughs, “Heidi is like a celebrity here! We’ve met so many people because she loves attention, and she always stops for pets when we’re out on a walk.”

Everyone knows Teddy

Verna moved from Penticton into Lake Bonavista Village almost two years ago with her eight-year-old ‘puppy’ Teddy. “Teddy bear is my best friend, we do everything together,” says Verna. “He loves people, and because he’s so friendly, we have made friends who want to come and say hi every day.” Verna continues, “When I take him for his daily walks, we are always greeted by our fellow residents. He brings such joy to us all.  I couldn’t imagine life without him. Teddy being welcomed into the community was essential to my decision to come to Lake Bonavista Village.”

Eye of the Tiger

Margaret, a resident at The Lodge at Valley Ridge, moved in five years ago with her feline companion, Tiger. “I was always a dog person,” Margaret laughs. “But I took Tiger in after my friend passed away, and we’ve been together ever since. He’s very much his own kitty, but he’s a wonderful companion. I’ve always been an independent person, and Tiger and I just do our own thing together.”

‍Some ‘bunny’ for everybody

If you stop by the Garrison Green Art Studio, you’ll likely be welcomed by GG, the studio’s resident bunny and beloved mascot. A rescue who found her forever home in the community, GG now holds court from her little castle tucked inside the studio. Whether she’s posing for photos or hosting “tea” with residents, GG brings a spark of joy to everyone who stops by. “Residents love to interact with GG,” says Maddison Klein, Active Living Advisor at Garrison Green. “She has the run of the studio, so she is an active participant in workshops, and she has encouraged a lot of the residents to start projects of their own just so they can spend time with her.” Maddison continues, “She belongs to everyone here -- we all love her so much -- she is a huge part of the community. I always stop by to say hello to her each day, and so do the residents.”

For many older adults, a pet is so much more than a companion — they’re family. At United Active Living, our relationship-centered approach to wellness means we welcome everyone who brings joy, comfort, and connection into our communities — especially our four-legged friends. Stop by our communities to see how you (and your pet) can find comfort, companionship… and unlimited volunteers for belly rubs!