Pet owners cherish their pets and would never want to have to leave their pets behind when they move. If you are considering moving to a 55+ active community and own a pet, you are likely concerned as to whether pets are allowed in these communities. So, what is the verdict?
Do 55+ communities allow pets? Mostly yes. Since most 55+ active communities have single-family homes available for purchase, having pets is up to the homeowner more than the community. However, there may be limits on the breeds and number of pets allowed, such as no more than two dogs and no vicious breeds. Furthermore, apartment and condo-style 55+ communities may have more limitations when it comes to pets.
If you are curious about your pet being able to go with you when you move to a 55+ community, you have come to the right place. This article will discuss whether these communities accept pets or not and why you might want to consider adding a pet to your family in the first place.
Do 55+ Communities Allow Pets?
Most 55+ active communities are going to allow pets.This can include all types of pets, such as dogs, cats, rabbits, birds, and hamsters. Since you are buying a home, it is technically your property to do what you want. However, there still may be some limitations when it comes to pets in a 55+ community.
Some of the limitations that you may find, even when purchasing your own home within the community, include:
- A Limit on the Number of Pets Available.
Since you are part of a community with a homeowner’s association (HOA), there will be specific rules and regulations that you must abide by (on top of a monthly fee). The HOA is an integral part of 55+ communities to keep them secure and maintained, but that also means that they are given the option to put a restriction on certain things.
Some communities may opt to place a rule for the number of pets you can have. Every community will differ, but a pretty standard rule of thumb is no more than two animals in a home.
To be sure, though, always check with the manager of the community before moving in. They can give you specific details on whether your pets fit the number rule.
- A Limit on the Type of Pets Allowed, Especially Specific Dog Breeds.
Another restriction that may be in place within a 55+ community is on the types of pets allowed on the properties.
The concern when it comes to limitations on pets is mostly in the dog department. Just like you wouldn’t be able to rent many places with a vicious breed such as a Rottweiler or a Pitbull, you may also find it a challenge to bring these breeds into a 55+ community as well.
Again, this is all because of the HOA and the rules of the community. If they don’t allow vicious breeds, even your sweeter-than-sugar Pitbull may not be able to join the property. You should always double-check with the community manager about any restrictions when it comes to types of pets, especially dog breeds.
What About 55+ Communities with Condos/Townhomes/Apartments?
Now, you aren’t likely to find too many restrictions when it comes to buying a home in a 55+ active community. As mentioned by Susan Quilty in “Active Adult Communities Welcome Animal Lovers,” “Apartment-style condominiums (whether garden or high-rise) are more likely to have pet restrictions.” But why?
This is because the residents are much closer together. The homes are attached, and their isn’t going to be much of a yard. For these reasons, the community may have more restrictions on pets allowed in the facility. For instance:
- There may be a ‘no pets’ rule.
This can be because of the simple fact that they don’t want anyone complaining about allergies or noise. It may be an issue of cleanliness of the complex, too.
- The number of pets may be limited.
Since space is limited in apartments and townhomes, the number of pets allowed can be smaller than that of homes.
- The size of the pets may be limited.
Again, this all comes down to the size of the apartment or townhome. Your beloved Husky, who loved to roam around in your backyard, simply won’t have any space in an apartment, and therefore he may not be allowed in the complex.
- The type of animal, such as the breed of dog, may be limited.
Since you are in close quarters with other residents, safety is an even more significant concern. To reduce the risk of injury, there may be more restrictions on breeds and animals.
These are all things to investigate when going 55+ community hunting. While there will be more leniency in an actual home, townhomes and apartments for 55 and older active seniors are likely to have several more regulations to keep all the residents happy. In this way, they are much like any other type of apartment you would rent in the city.
Look Out for Special Dog Parks
You love your beloved pet, and your pet loves you. As explained by Nicole Lyn Pesce in “6 Reasons Seniors Should Consider Getting a Pet,” pets can help ease pain, make people more sociable, increase exercise, and enhance mental stability and happiness. So why wouldn’t you want to do something a little extra special for your beloved pets?
You will be happy to know that many 55+ communities have dog parks. These parks will have lots of fun toys, games, and space for your dog to run around and enjoy himself. It also encourages the owner to walk their dog and get some more exercise, which is always beneficial for active seniors.
Questions to Ask the Manager
There are specific questions you should ask a manager when it comes to whether the community accepts pets. In the article “How to Find a Pet-Friendly Retirement Community,” Ronni Gordon gives us plenty of excellent examples on the key questions that should be asked ahead of time, including:
- Is there enough room for a pet?
- What types of pets are allowed?
- How many pets can I have?
- Is there a dog park around?
- Are the premises well lit?
- Are there enough areas to take my pet for a walk?
- Are there any restrictions on the size of pets allowed?
- Is there a pet deposit required?
- Are there any veterinarians nearby?
Knowing the answers to these questions ahead of time will ensure that you don’t run into any shocking news while you’re moving in. Make sure you find out as many details as you can about how pet-friendly the community is to ensure that you’re making the right choice.
If you cannot find the one for you, 55+ communities are continuing to open in many places, so continue your search. You are sure to find one that fits you and will include your pet.
Conclusion
For the most part, 55+ communities allow pets, especially if you are buying a single-family home rather than an apartment or townhome. This is good news, as pets are very beneficial to active seniors. Make sure to always double-check with the community manager on pet restrictions in terms of breed, size, and the number of pets allowed.
While it can be frustrating to have to research many different 55+ active senior communities to find the perfect place that will accept your pet, once you find one that fits you, the search will be worth it!