Mattison Crossing Senior Living

Assisted Living With Pets in Freehold, NJ: What to Know

Written by Mattison Crossing | Jun 2, 2025 4:00:00 AM

Pets make life so happy, don't they? A dog's wagging tail or a cat's soft purr can brighten any day, especially for seniors. If you're thinking about moving to a senior living community in Freehold, NJ, you might want your pet to come with you.

 

At Mattison Crossing, located in the friendly town of Freehold, we love pets and welcome them in our pet-friendly senior living. Assisted living with pets is becoming more popular because pets, like emotional support animals for seniors, bring joy and comfort.

 

Read on to learn all about assisted living with pets!

 

Why Pets Matter for Seniors in Assisted Living

For seniors in assisted living, pets help in many ways. Studies from the NIH show that pets can lower stress and make people feel less lonely. They also encourage seniors to stay active, like taking a dog for a short walk or playing with a cat.

 

In pet-friendly senior living in Freehold, communities like ours welcome pets to keep these benefits alive.'

 

Pets give seniors a sense of purpose. Feeding a pet or brushing its fur creates a daily routine, which is especially helpful during a move to a new home.

 

Emotional support animals for seniors are a great example. These animals offer comfort and help seniors feel calm without needing medicine.

 

At Mattison Crossing, we see how pets make our residents happier every day. A dog might sit by their owner during a meal, or a cat might nap on their lap during a movie. These moments matter.

 

Seniors with pets often feel more connected to others, too. They make life fuller and more fun for everyone.

 

What to Expect in Pet-Friendly Assisted Living Communities

Moving to a community that welcomes pets is exciting. Assisted living with pets means you and your furry friend can stay together.

 

But what's it like? Communities that allow pets, like ours in Freehold, have special features to make life easy for both seniors and their animals. For example, many have outdoor areas where dogs can play or cats can relax in the sun.

 

Most communities have rules about pets to keep everyone safe. These might include limits on pet size or the number of pets allowed.

 

At Mattison Crossing, we ask for pet records to ensure animals are healthy and vaccinated. We also help with small tasks, like reminding you to feed your pet, but you're still the main caregiver.

 

Dog-friendly assisted living is especially fun. Imagine walking your dog with other residents or joining a pet meet-and-greet. These activities help seniors make friends who love pets, too.

 

Communities often plan events where pets are welcome, like a group stroll or a pet treat party. These moments create a warm, welcoming home.

Cleanliness is important, too.

 

Pet-friendly communities have staff who keep shared spaces tidy, so everyone enjoys the environment. If you're worried about caring for your pet, don't be. Staff can assist with simple things, like carrying pet food to your apartment.

 

Pets in Memory Care: A Special Connection

Pets can make a big difference for seniors in memory care. For those with memory challenges, like dementia, a familiar pet can bring comfort. Pets in memory care help seniors feel calm and safe, even on tough days.

 

In communities like Mattison Crossing, we see how animals create special moments for residents.

 

A pet can remind someone of the past. For example, petting a dog might bring back memories of a childhood pet. This can start conversations or encourage a senior to share stories.

 

Even simple actions, like feeding a bird or watching a fish swim, can keep someone engaged. These activities are easy and fun and are perfect for memory care residents.

 

Communities often include pets in memory care programs. At Mattison Crossing, we might organize pet therapy visits, where trained animals come to spend time with residents. Or we'll help a resident with their own pet during a group activity, like a sing-along.

 

Pets in memory care also bring joy to families. When a loved one smiles because of a pet, it's a precious memory. Our staff ensures pets are cared for, so residents can enjoy their companions without worry.

 

The bond between a senior and their pet is powerful, and in memory care, it's a source of love and familiarity that makes every day brighter.

 

Aging With Pets: Planning for a Smooth Transition

Moving to assisted living with your pet is a big step, but it can be smooth with a little planning. Aging with pets means thinking about what you and your furry friend need to be happy.

 

Start by gathering your pet's records, like vet visits and vaccinations. Most communities, including ours, need these to keep all pets healthy. Bring your pet's favorite:

  • Toys
  • Bed
  • Blanket

These can help to make the new home feel familiar.

 

It's also smart to learn the community's pet rules. Some spots have limits on pet size or breeds, so ask ahead. At Mattison Crossing, we work with you to make sure your pet fits right in. If you have a dog, dog-friendly assisted living means you'll find spaces for walks and playtime.

 

As you age, caring for a pet might feel harder. Maybe walking a dog is tougher, or lifting a bag of pet food is heavy. Communities help with small tasks, like carrying supplies or reminding you about feeding time.

 

You're still the main caregiver, but support is there when you need it. Talk to staff about your pet's routine to keep things consistent.

 

Finally, spend time with your pet during the move. A familiar face, like your cat or dog, makes the change easier. Aging with pets is about keeping that special bond strong.

 

A Happy Home for Assisted Living With Pets

Assisted living with pets brings so much joy to seniors. In Freehold, NJ, we're proud to welcome pets at Mattison Crossing, where our engaging lifestyle programs create a warm home for you and your furry friend.

 

Assisted living with pets is about keeping that special bond strong, and we're here to make it easy. Contact Mattison Crossing today to explore how we can help you and your companion start a happy new chapter in Freehold!