The Importance of Companionship: What to Look for in a Pet-Friendly Community

It’s not just your pet — it’s your tried-and-true family member. Your best friend. Your pick-me-up when you’re feeling down. Shouldn’t these pals be just as welcome in your retirement community as you?

At Artessa, we certainly think so. That’s why all our 62+ lifestyle co-ops in the Midwest and Southwest are pet-friendly and ready to accommodate your furry — or feathered, or scaly — companions.

Beyond not having to sacrifice your pet to live where you really want to live, we offer intentionally designed spaces for those lovable extensions to your family: walkable trails, dog parks and more.

Animal lovers, rejoice. Artessa is the go-to pet-friendly community for older adults. Explore the benefits of owning a pet and, if you don’t already, why your next life chapter may be the perfect time to get one.

Why Are Pets Important as We Age?

More than 55% of all older adults have a pet, according to the National Poll on Healthy Aging. Why?

Well, if you haven’t experienced the unconditional love, acceptance and snuggles yourself, let’s take a look at the impact. A national Michigan Medicine study revealed that pets help people ages 50 to 80:

Enjoy Life: 88%
As a whole, pets bring joy to the everyday. Coming home to purrs or a wagging tail gives older adults an unwavering, consistent reason to smile — even through life’s biggest curveballs.

Reduce Stress: 79%
Did you know petting an animal can lower cortisol (stress hormone), boost oxytocin (happy hormone) and keep your blood pressure under control? It’s science! Your pet could help lengthen your life.

Find Purpose: 73%
Loneliness, unfulfillment and even depression are common among older age groups, but studies have shown those with pets are at lower risk. These loyal companions do wonders for quality of life and help people rediscover a sense of belonging, compassion and love.

Create Connections: 65%
Animals are an easy “in” for new friendships. With this shared interest, you can visit the dog park with neighbors, send your funny cat photos to your social circle and bond over a one-of-a-kind love that only fellow pet owners understand.

Stay Active: 64%
Especially with dog owners, pets are like a secret weapon for maintaining physical health as you age. From fetch and tug-of-war to long walks, they help older adults get moving — and get some fresh air. And, since you’re doing all this with your furry friend by your side, it often doesn’t feel like exercise.

Stick to Routine: 62%
Pet ownership comes with responsibility, but that responsibility is quite rewarding. Maintaining a consistent feeding, exercise and sleep schedule for an animal encourages people to stay on track with their own habits. Routines support all-around emotional well-being, keeping you sharper as you age.

What Can I Expect for My Pet at Artessa?

Artessa is the ideal place to perfect the art of retirement living alongside your pet. We treat them like family and offer all this and more outside your door:

• Prime access to paths, parks and trails to keep your pet active
• Dog parks and on-site pet washing stations*
• Walk-out units easy for letting pets out often
• No extra pet ownership fees
• No size limits for dogs
• A built-in social network of like-minded animal lovers
• An extra layer of security for homeowners

*Varies by property

Discover the dynamic lifestyle at our 62+, boutique-style co-ops in Minnesota and Arizona and find a pet-friendly community near you.