Picture this: you’ve spent decades building your career, raising a family, and planning for retirement. Now you’re ready to embrace your golden years with your most loyal companion by your side. Your four-legged friend has been there through thick and thin, so naturally, you want your retirement town to welcome them with open arms too.
These furry babies are the perfect little companions that can help retirees, especially those who live alone, by providing them with the emotional support that they need. A Pew Research Center study notes that an estimated 34% of American seniors live alone, a figure that is 10% higher than the national average. For many of these seniors, having a pet can help “offset” the impacts of loneliness. Your dog doesn’t just need a place to sleep; they deserve beaches to romp on, trails to explore, and communities that genuinely celebrate the human-canine bond. Let’s discover where you and your best friend can truly thrive together.
Scottsdale, Arizona: Desert Paradise for Dogs
Scottsdale is the most pet-friendly city , boasting an extremely high number of pet businesses and dog-friendly shops per capita. This desert gem isn’t just about cacti and golf courses; it’s a haven where you and your pup can enjoy year-round sunshine and endless outdoor adventures.
In addition, Scottsdale makes owning a pet while renting easy. Approximately 88% of rental listings in the city allow pets, one of the highest percentages in the country. Homes in the city have a very high average square footage, at over 2,300 square feet, too, giving pets plenty of space to roam around. Nearly 27% of the city is parkland, the fourth-highest in the country, and the city has the third-best weather , though summers can get quite hot. You can even find plenty of spots to take your companion out to eat, since the city has the tenth-most dog-friendly restaurants per capita.
St. Petersburg, Florida: Sunshine State Bliss
For the ultimate dog lover in search of the most dog-friendly city, look no further than St. Petersburg, Florida. For pet care, residents have access to the fifth-highest number of pet stores and vet offices (84.5 for every 10,000 establishments). The Sunshine State delivers more than just warm weather; it offers a lifestyle where your golden retriever can truly live their golden years…