And why choosing a pet-friendly village just makes sense.
There’s something about sharing your home with a furry friend that makes the place feel right. Maybe it’s the warm welcome at the door. The sense of routine they bring to each day. Or the way they help you meet people and get outdoors. At this stage of life – when you finally have more time for the things (and creatures) you love – pets can bring so much joy, comfort, and connection.
Companionship with real health benefits
The benefits of having a pet go far beyond companionship. A 2023 study* by the University of South Australia found that older adults with pets experienced lower levels of depression, greater physical activity, and a stronger sense of meaning and purpose in their lives. The act of caring for a pet – feeding, walking, grooming, or just having a cuddle – brings structure to the day, encourages movement, and helps keep people engaged with the world around them.
Pets are also powerful emotional anchors during times of change. For many people moving into retirement living, having a familiar animal by their side can make the transition feel less daunting – a source of comfort and continuity.
In fact, according to the For Love of Pets Report 2024**, which forms part of the Australian Seniors research series, 96% of Australians over 50 say their pet brings meaningful connection to their lives, primarily through unconditional love, affection, and companionship.
They’re icebreakers, motivators, and mood-boosters
In a retirement village setting, pets are often the best kind of social catalyst. A friendly dog can spark conversations, turn strangers into neighbours, and create daily opportunities for connection. For newcomers to a community, pets can be a great reason to get out and explore, even just around the block.
And of course, they help support routine. A short walk each morning. A cuddle on the couch at night. That sense of being needed, loved, and known. It’s no surprise that more Australians are looking for retirement living that makes space for these kinds of bonds.
Oak Tree’s thoughtful pet-friendly approach
Not every retirement village welcomes pets – but Oak Tree does. And it’s something many residents value deeply. With 34 villages across Australia and a growing reputation for boutique, community-focused living, Oak Tree understands just how important it is for people to feel at home – and for many, that includes bringing a pet.
Each Oak Tree village has a clear, thoughtful pet policy that balances the needs of residents with and without animals. Small, well-behaved pets are welcomed with prior approval, and the guidelines ensure harmony across the community. It’s about creating space for connection, while keeping things respectful, peaceful, and fair.
Choosing connection – in all its forms
Whether it’s a wagging tail at the front door or a quiet purr in the sun, pets bring something special to daily life. They help people feel grounded, connected, and emotionally secure. And in a setting that welcomes them with open arms, they can be a big part of what makes retirement living feel truly rewarding.
Because it’s not just about where you live – it’s about who you share it with.
To find out more about what retirement living looks like at Oak Tree Retirement Villages, visit oaktreegroup.com.au or call 1300 367 155.
*University of South Australia: Pets create ‘pawsitive’ change for people in aged care, 2023
**The Australian Seniors Series: For the Love of Pets Report, 2024