Navigating Pet Deposits for Seniors in Independent Living
A recent poll found that over half of older adults have at least one pet. That same poll found that many seniors attribute reduced stress, an increased sense of purpose, and more physical activity to pet ownership.
With such high rates of pet ownership, how are assisted living communities handling pet policies? While this isn't true across the board, it's becoming easier to find communities that allow pets for the elderly.
When you're researching communities that allow pets, it's important to understand pet regulations for seniors. This includes understanding pet deposits and how they apply to you. Read on to learn more.
What Is a Pet Deposit?
Pet deposits function like security deposits for pet owners. In other words, pet owners may need to pay an additional deposit or fee to cover any excessive damage their pet causes to their private quarters or to the community property.
To better understand how pet deposits work, it's important to recognize the different types of pet deposit structures. This will allow you to budget for pet-related costs and determine if a community is right for you.
One-Time Pet Deposits
As the name suggests, you only need to pay a one-time pet deposit once. In most cases, you'll owe this money when you sign your assisted living contract. Alternatively, you may need to pay a one-time pet deposit on the day that your contract begins (i.e., your move-in date).
Recurring Pet Deposits
Recurring pet deposits are sums you'll need to pay more than once. Your contract or lease should clearly state both the amount and the due date of these recurring payments. You may owe one larger sum each year or a smaller sum along with your monthly rent.
Pet Fees vs. Pet Deposits
Many assisted living communities will use the terms "fees" and "deposits" interchangeably to refer to non-refundable payments. However, it's worth clarifying this point with your assisted living director. In some cases, a non-refundable fee is distinct from a conditionally refundable deposit.
Independent Living Communities and Assistant Animals
Service animals and emotional support animals fall under an entirely different category than pets. If you have a registered assistance animal, you don't need to limit yourself to communities that allow pets, although you are certainly welcome to.
Under the Fair Housing Act, assisted living directors can't discriminate against residents with registered assistance animals. Here are the answers to common questions about assistance animals and independent living.
Do You Need Proof of Assistance Animal Registration?
When discussing the terms of your contract, you may need to produce proof that you have an assistance animal. Housing providers like assisted living directors can ask for proof that your assistance animal was "prescribed" as a disability accommodation. They cannot ask for proof of your disability.
One option is to get a letter from your doctor or therapist stating that your assistance animal serves a pivotal role in your well-being. While housing providers can contact your doctor or therapist for verification, they can't ask any questions about why you need your assistance animal.
Can You Be Charged a Pet Deposit for an Assistance Animal?
Most pet-friendly senior living communities will ask for a pet deposit. If you have a registered assistance animal, you do not have to pay this pet deposit.
However, that doesn't mean you won't be responsible if your assistance animal causes significant damage. The cost of related repairs may come out of your security deposit or community fee.
Other Pet Regulations for Senior Residents
If you're looking for senior housing with pets, make sure to ask about all pet regulations, not just pet deposits. Some communities may impose additional rules and limitations that residents need to be aware of. Here are a few examples of pet regulations you may encounter.
Breed Restrictions
Some communities may impose breed restrictions, disallowing certain breeds based on things like size or strength. For example, your community may prohibit Akitas or they may prohibit pets that weigh over 50 pounds.
In some cases, breed restrictions are a reflection of a state or local policy, and there's nothing your assisted living community can do about the restrictions.
Number of Pets Allowed
Oftentimes, private quarters in an assisted living community are much smaller than single-family homes. For the sake of space, resources, and cleanliness, independent living communities may limit the number of pets a resident can have. You may have an easier time finding a community that will accept one or two pets than three or more.
Pet Care Options
Your senior living pet policy may include specific information about who is responsible for pet care. Basic pet care aid may fall under assistance with activities of daily living (ADLs).
If you require help with things like walking your dog or cleaning up your cat's litterbox, make sure to ask if this is something staff members do or if you'll need to hire a pet care professional.
Tips on Managing Pet Deposits
First and foremost, make sure you know what kind of pet fee structure a community uses. This will allow you to adjust your budget as necessary.
Pet deposits tend to make up only a marginal percentage of assisted living costs. Pet deposit financing tends to come from the same sources as overall assisted living financing, which often include:
- Personal savings accounts
- Retirement funds like a 401(k) or pension
- Investment accounts
- The sale of assets like real estate
- Long-term care insurance
Assuming that basic pet care assistance is included, owning a pet in assisted living shouldn't make a huge difference to your overall cost of living.
Independent Living: Embracing Pets for the Elderly
We're seeing a growing number of residents with pets who bring them endless joy and fulfillment. We believe that assisted living and pets for the elderly should go hand in hand.
We infuse this same commitment to resident well-being into everything we do. From our dining programs to our robust activity schedule and beyond, our staff will always go the extra mile to make our community great.
Contact Walnut Park to learn more about our pet policy and more.