Four-legged friends

26th Aug Lifestyle

Spending Time with Our Four-Legged Friends

Why Dogs Make Adlington Communities Even Brighter

At Adlington Retirement Living, we’ve always known that our communities thrive when people can bring the things that matter most to them when they buy a new home, and for many homeowners, that includes their much-loved pets.

Dogs are more than just pets though, they’re confidants, companions, and motivators. They encourage us to get outside, spark conversations with neighbours, and provide that extra sense of comfort when we return home.

Research carried out by Purina shows that spending time with dogs can reduce stress, boost physical activity, and improve overall well-being, and you only need to talk to our homeowners to know that the benefits go far beyond statistics.

When homeowner Rob moved to Broadleaf House, Wylde Green, with his Bichon Toby, the dog became the icebreaker: “He loves people watching. On warm days we sit outside, and he surveys his kingdom, with other homeowners stroking him or calling his name. Two of the homeowners, Jean and Eileen, light up when Toby arrives, they adore him. Some cuddle him, others just enjoy his soft coat and calming presence. Watching a room full of people smile because of your dog and knowing that we’re bringing them a bit of joy, that’s priceless.”

Homeowner Rob sitting on the sofa smiling with his Bichon dog Toby

Homeowner Rob and Toby

For those who may have worried that downsizing would mean saying goodbye to their four-legged companions, our pet-friendly approach means well-behaved dogs are welcome in our communities. This opens the door for a smoother move, and one where nothing precious has to be left behind.

Finding a pet-friendly retirement community where Tinka and Olga, their two small dogs, could feel at home was essential for Ann and Harry, homeowners at The Sidings, Lytham.

Harry told us: “Ann’s had dogs all her life. Tinka’s been all over Europe with her. We didn’t think Olga would settle here but she loves it. Ann walks her first thing in the morning for an hour and a half and then she goes for another hour and a half late in the afternoon.

“The other homeowners here love her. She knows that she’s not allowed in the coffee lounge, so we walk past there to the homeowners’ lounge, where she’ll stop, look and there’s a lady who always calls her to come for a stroke.”

Ann: “We wouldn’t have come if we couldn’t have brought the dogs. When we sit out in the garden, they come and sit with us.”

Homeowners Ann and Harry sitting on chairs in the garden enjoying the planters with dogs on their knees

Homeowners Ann and Harry with Olga and Tinka

Harry: “When I walk them, we like to sit in the corner area of the garden in the sunshine, where the raised beds are. It’s a little suntrap down there and Tinka just lies down and goes to sleep.”

Dogs Bring People Together

In many ways, dogs are natural community-builders. Morning walks become opportunities to meet neighbours, share tips on the best local green spaces, and sometimes even coordinate group strolls. For homeowners who may have once felt isolated in larger properties, the presence of dogs helps create easy, natural connections.

A Source of Comfort and Reassurance

For some homeowners, dogs provide not only friendship but also comfort through life’s changes. The transition into a new home can feel daunting, but the presence of a trusted pet helps create continuity and a sense of belonging.

That sense of reassurance carries over into daily life. With the support of Adlington’s on-site teams available around the clock, homeowners know they, and their dogs, are safe and supported, meaning the delight of pet ownership in later life can be enjoyed with complete peace of mind.

More Time for What Matters Most

Each year, National Dog Day is a reminder of how important our canine companions are, but at Adlington, every day is a chance to celebrate the role pets play in our lives. Because when we talk about creating communities where homeowners can truly flourish, we know that often includes making space for four-legged family members.

So, here’s to our four-legged friends — may the walks be long, the treats plentiful, and the friendships everlasting.

Read more about the value of friendship in later life or find a community near you.