Dog ownership in retirement

Choosing a property on a retirement estate can be a complicated decision with buyers, understandably, wanting to make the right long-term decision. For those who have a dog, the choice becomes harder; while over-55 accommodation is designed to be future-proofed, it often isn’t suitable for pets.

John Lavin of Cognatum says, “Pet ownership in retirement is on the increase. Pre-lockdown, around 10% of our 2,200+ residents owned a dog and the figure has risen over the last three years and now stands at around 20%

“The physical and mental benefits of dog ownership are overwhelming. They help owners settle into a regular routine, provide excellent companionship, reduce stress, and provide a good point of contact for conversation and friendship – it’s very easy to strike up a conversation with neighbours and locals when you already know you have an interest in dogs in common. Dog owners walk at least once a day, whatever the weather.

“Most of our estates are set in dog-friendly grounds, many have areas of woodland or pasture, or access to rivers, streams or lakes, so they are ideal for dog owners. Residents generally find that non-dog-owning neighbours are willing to help out with walks and feeding when required.

 “Dog owners looking for a later life home should choose wisely. Suitable space is obviously vital – with adjacent outside space early morning and late night comfort breaks, and walking areas on the doorstep that don’t require a car.

“One of the reasons we’re seeing an increase in dog ownership in later life is that there are so many ways for owners to get help with walking, or care during absences. Organisations such as www.borrowmydoggy.com connects dog owners with dog borrowers for walks weekends and holidays, while www.trustedhousesitters.com connects dog owners with sitters who exchange their time, care and expertise for interesting homestays.

 “A useful contact for dog owners is The Cinnamon Trust, https://cinnamon.org.uk/cinnamon-trust/ a national charity that works in partnership with pet owners, and which Cognatum is a member. The Trust has volunteers who will step in if dog owners are unable to care for their pet, either temporarily, or permanently. They provide a fostering service for pets whose owners face a spell in hospital, or long-term care for owners who are no longer able to keep their pet.

“Owning a dog is no longer restrictive for those wanting to use their retirement or semi-retirement for short or long term trips and travel, or for those who feel their health or fitness may make dog ownership difficult.”

Orchard Yard in Wingham, Kent, is an equally attractive proposition for dogs and dog owners. Nine houses and six apartments sit in glorious grounds that include an orchard, gardens that have been planted to encourage wildlife and diversity, vegetable gardens and greenhouse. There are a whole host of communal areas including a club house with stretch studio, gym and large terrace with barbecue. Located in the Garden of England, with numerous footpaths on the doorstep, and just a few miles from the north and east Kent coasts, Orchard Yard is dog heaven.

Prices from £725,000