Can Dogs Be Allowed in Assisted Living Facilities?

Many wonder whether dogs can be present in assisted living facilities, including hospitals like Riverside Methodist in Columbus, Ohio. While dogs play a significant role in pet therapy programs, not all facilities allow pets to reside on-site permanently due to various reasons.

Legal and Practical Considerations

The legal status of dogs in assisted living facilities can vary. Most facilities do not permit dogs to live on-site, but there are exceptions and exceptions under specific circumstances. At the Riverside Methodist hospital in Columbus, Ohio, an animal is a crucial member of the hospice staff, highlighting the potential benefits of dog therapy in such settings.

There are several reasons why many assisted living facilities prohibit dogs from residing within their premises. The elderly often require significant care and may not be able to take good care of the pets. Moreover, pets can pose safety hazards to residents. For instance, a cat tripped one of the author's mother’s, leading to her being unconscious for a night and eventually passing away from the injuries.

The Benefits of Pet Therapy

However, pet therapy programs are becoming increasingly popular in senior care facilities. Therapy animals can be a source of comfort, companionship, and morale support for the elderly facing challenging situations, such as surgeries, post-traumatic stress, mental health issues, disabilities, and physical ailments. This therapy involves interactions between patients, staff, and caregivers who bring in visiting or facility dogs.

Regulations and Policies

While many assisted living facilities do not allow residents to bring their pets, they may permit service dogs and even allow therapy dogs to visit. For instance, some facilities require proof of veterinary certification and may incur additional monthly charges if the resident’s pet is not regularly taken outside to defecate and urinate.

Some facilities allow dogs to visit, but not reside on-site. This could be due to the potential conflicts between multiple animals or the need for staff to manage the dog's behavior and interactions with residents.

Case Study: An Approved Dog at an Assisted Living Facility

The author's mother's dog was approved to stay in her assisted living building. The dog was very well-trained and brought joy to all the residents on four floors. This illustrates that, in some cases, with the right training and support, dogs can make positive contributions to senior care facilities.

Overall, while many assisted living facilities do not allow residents to bring their pets, there are exceptions and growing recognition of the therapeutic benefits of pet therapy. It is essential to check the specific policies of each facility to ensure compatibility and support.