Pet-Friendly Senior Living in Palm Desert

May 9, Alissa Sauer

Bella Villaggio is a premier senior living community in Palm Desert, CA. We offer a continuum of senior care services, including independent living, assisted living, and memory care. Our senior living community is pet-friendly, offering pet care services for cats and dogs and welcoming them into our Bella Villaggio family. Learn how pets are an important part of life at Bella Villaggio and how pets can greatly improve the quality of life of seniors.

What are the Benefits of Pets for Seniors?

We all know that dogs are a man’s best friend, but did you know that they can also be man’s healers? Owning and caring for a pet can help seniors combat social isolation, connect with others, and reduce symptoms of stress and depression.

In fact, Dr. Marwan Sabbagh, MD, Director of Cleveland Clinic’s Lou Ruvo Center for Brain Health states, “Simply petting an animal can decrease the level of the stress hormone cortisol and boost the release of the neurotransmitter serotonin, resulting in lowered blood pressure and heart rate, and possibly, in an elevated mood.”

Pets can be beneficial to seniors with depression. A 2019 study evaluated the effects of dogs on nearly 200 people diagnosed with depression, anxiety, or post-traumatic stress disorder and found that 94 percent reported a reduction in feelings of anxiety by petting a dog, and 51 percent said that their dog was responsible for interrupting unwanted thoughts.

Pets provide companionship, a source of conversation, a sense of purpose and meaning, and even exercise for seniors. Dogs demanding a daily walk can convince people to exercise, improving cardiovascular health, muscle strength, and mental health.

“She rules the roost and keeps me entertained all day. Life without Gidget would be like apple pie without ice cream.” Bella Villaggio resident Sandra on her dog, Gidget

Pets at Bella Villaggio

We are proud to announce that in addition to welcoming our residents’ pets, we have also partnered with friends at Animal Samaritans of the Desert for animal companion therapy. This unique program utilizes the healing power of the animal-human connection and provides visits to our residents so everyone can enjoy the comfort of a pet without the responsibility!

Bella Villaggio is home to six dogs, three cats, and two birds! We are now accepting new residents. Contact Bella Villagio today to learn how you (and your furry companion!) can join the Bella Villaggio family!