Parkland, FL, with its green spaces and walkable neighborhoods, offers an ideal setting for seniors who want to keep their pets close. Nearly 70% of U.S. households own at least one pet, and that bond remains strong even later in life. For many older adults, assisted living with pets in Parkland, FL, offers the best of both worlds: daily support and the opportunity to stay connected to a beloved companion.
Aston Gardens at Parkland Commons is one of Parkland's premier pet-friendly assisted living communities designed to support both residents and their pets. For families exploring assisted living, including pets in the plan isn't just possible, it's part of what helps a new community feel like home.
Take a closer look at how we're making life better for our residents and their pets!
In retirement, pets offer more than just company. They bring structure to the day and keep things moving. Imagine living a sedentary life with a dog sitting at your feet just waiting for you to go on a walk.
Feeding schedules and daily walks, pets help create a steady rhythm that many older adults find reassuring. According to the National Council on Aging, there's also a real physical payoff to pet ownership.
Whether you own a dog or a cat, you may notice one or more of these physical benefits:
Aston Gardens at Parkland Commons, a leader in pet-friendly assisted living, has exclusive programs for residents, which include plenty of opportunities for residents to make new friends and celebrate life together. Pets also create easy opportunities for residents to connect. Whether during a group walk or a pet-focused event, residents find natural ways to meet and build friendships without forced small talk.
Here are a few fun ways pets can bring people together in a senior living community:
Daily care routines like feeding, walking, and quiet time together can help seniors stay engaged and emotionally balanced. According to the American Heart Association, regular interaction with pets supports lower stress levels and better mental health.
Moving to an assisted living community is a significant change. Sometimes, such a big change causes a person to feel isolated. That's where emotional support animals for seniors become the heroes, providing not just comfort but a sense of purpose and stability.
Unlike service animals, emotional support animals don't require specialized training, but their impact is no less powerful. They help anchor the day, offering moments of connection that break up quiet or difficult hours. In many assisted living settings, their presence helps residents feel more at ease and more like themselves.
While Parkland, FL, is known for its lush green spaces and quiet neighborhoods, most public parks do not allow dogs. Barkland Dog Park stands out as the city's dedicated off-leash area where visitors can take advantage of space for large and small dogs, plus shaded seating and water stations. A few dog-friendly cafes also give local pet owners a chance to dine out without leaving their companions at home.
For residents of Aston Gardens at Parkland Commons, pet-friendly living is built into the design of the community. Our on-site features include a fenced dog park and covered walkways that make daily walks comfortable year-round. We love helping our residents keep their pets active and close by, rain or shine.
As people age, caring for pets can become more complex. Physical changes may make walking or grooming harder, and managing a pet's energy or needs can require extra patience. Planning ahead helps seniors keep their pets happy while adapting to their own changing abilities.
Key considerations for seniors living in pet-friendly senior communities include:
Not every pet fits smoothly into assisted living settings. Smaller dog breeds and senior pets are often the best companions because their lower energy levels suit indoor living and shared spaces. Some, but not all, small breeds tend to be calmer, making it easier to manage noise and activity around neighbors.
Beyond dogs, cats, birds, and fish can also be great choices. They usually need less space and exercise, but still provide meaningful companionship. It's important to check with the community about any restrictions on pet weight, breed, or type before bringing a pet to ensure a good fit.
Moving to a new home can be just as overwhelming for pets as it is for their owners. Most pet-friendly communities in Parkland, FL, have amenities that make pets and their owners feel welcome, but there are still several things the pet owner can do to make the transition successful.
Keeping familiar routines like regular feeding times, daily walks, and favorite toys helps pets feel more secure. Gradually introducing pets to new spaces and neighbors can ease stress and make the adjustment smoother. Providing quiet, comfortable spots for pets to retreat encourages relaxation during this transition.
Pets are more than companions. They're part of what makes life feel complete. Finding a community that welcomes them is like discovering a new rhythm that feels just right.
At Aston Gardens at Parkland Commons, seniors don't just receive care. They join a community that respects their independence and values the bonds they share with their pets. With exclusive programs and personalized support, we've designed everything here to help every resident thrive.
Visit our pet-friendly assisted living community in Parkland, FL, to experience our warm welcome. Schedule your tour soon!