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on the Friday, February 7, 2025
For many older Australians, pets are more than just animals - they’re family. Whether it’s the calming purr of a cat or the friendly wag of a dog’s tail, pets bring joy, comfort, and a deep sense of companionship. That’s why more retirement villages across Australia are embracing pet-friendly living, recognising the positive impact animals have on residents’ wellbeing.
If you're planning a move to a retirement village and want to bring a beloved pet with you - or are curious about companionship options - this guide will help you understand your choices.
Pets offer a wide range of physical, emotional, and social benefits for retirees, including:
Reduced loneliness and isolation
Improved mental health and mood
Increased physical activity through daily routines
Stronger sense of purpose and responsibility
Greater social interaction with fellow pet lovers
In fact, studies show that pet ownership can help lower blood pressure, reduce stress, and even extend life expectancy.
Many retirement villages in Australia are now pet-friendly, though each village may have different policies depending on:
Type and size of pet
Resident’s ability to care for the pet independently
Impact on neighbours or shared spaces
Small dogs, cats, birds, and even fish are commonly allowed, provided they are well-behaved and don't pose a safety or allergy concern for others.
Before moving in, most villages will ask for details about your pet and may require:
Vet records (vaccination, desexing, microchipping)
Proof that the pet is well-trained and manageable
Agreement to a pet policy outlining care expectations
To maintain harmony in the community, pet-friendly retirement villages often have guidelines such as:
Pets must be supervised in communal areas
Dogs must be kept on a lead outside private homes
Owners are responsible for cleaning up after their pets
Excessive noise or aggressive behaviour may result in review
These guidelines ensure a positive experience for both pet owners and other residents.
Not ready to care for a pet full-time? Retirement villages often provide other ways to enjoy companionship and connection:
Visiting therapy animals – Many aged care and retirement communities partner with animal therapy organisations that bring in dogs and other pets for visits.
On-site community pets – Some villages care for shared animals like chickens, fish, or even a resident cat or dog.
Volunteer pet programs – Residents can sign up to help walk or care for other residents’ pets.
If bringing your pet is important to you, be sure to ask:
Does the village allow pets, and what types?
Are there size or breed restrictions?
Are there on-site pet facilities (e.g. dog walking paths, fenced yards)?
What are the rules around noise or shared space?
What support is available if you can no longer care for your pet?
As every village is different, it’s important to clarify these details early in your search.
Pets and companionship play a vital role in quality of life - especially in retirement. With the growing number of pet-friendly retirement villages across Australia, it’s now more possible than ever to enjoy later life with your furry friend by your side.
Whether you’re moving in with a pet or simply want to stay connected to animals, there are options to suit your lifestyle and needs.
Use Retirement Living Online to search for pet-friendly retirement villages in your area. Filter by location, facilities, and lifestyle features to find the perfect community for you - and your companion.
