The Best Furry (Or Not) Friends for Seniors: Apartment-Friendly Pets

Is there a cuddly Charley in your future? Or a finicky Missy who’s already part of your life? At South Port Square, we’re proud to be a pet-friendly senior living community, welcoming residents who cherish animals and the loving companionship they provide.  

When it comes to an ideal pet for an apartment, especially in senior living, it’s important to choose companions suited for smaller spaces and allergy considerations. Whether you’re looking for a cat, a small dog, an easy-going mutt or something a bit more exotic, there’s a perfect family member to match your lifestyle and living environment here. 

Why Choose Pet-Friendly Senior Living?

Living in an apartment often means managing space efficiently and sharing life with a pet that won’t challenge your environment or daily routines. At South Port Square, we understand the special bond between seniors and their pets, which is why we encourage pet-friendly living arrangements. When you visit here, you’ll find a wide variety of loving cats, dogs and other animals that call this community home, too.  

Tips for Choosing and Caring for Apartment Pets

When deciding on a pet for an apartment, it’s important to consider your own health needs and lifestyle. Allergies are a common concern, so choosing hypoallergenic breeds or low-allergen animals can help maintain a comfortable environment. Regular grooming, cleaning and ensuring your pet’s health are key to keeping your living space enjoyable for everyone. 

Also, please be a considerate neighbor – pick up after your pet, be mindful of quiet hours and ensure they’re well-behaved. These small acts support a harmonious community environment, allowing all residents to enjoy pet-friendly senior living. Here are some top choices: 

Small Dogs – Loyal, Caring and Compact

If you prefer a dog, consider small breeds that thrive in apartments and are less likely to cause allergies. Some hypoallergenic options include the Maltese, Poodle, and Shih Tzu. A particularly adorable and popular choice is the Cavachon—a charming blend of Cavalier King Charles Spaniel and Bichon Frise that’s known for being intelligent, affectionate and friendly.  

Loving mutts are also an ideal option—they tend to be adaptable, easygoing, and loyal companions. Animal shelters are filled with mixed-breed dogs that need homes and can fit well into apartment life to become cherished family members (more on that below). 

Cats – Independent Yet Affectionate Friends

Cats are a favorite pet for apartment living thanks to their smaller size and independent nature. Hypoallergenic breeds like the Sphynx, Russian Blue, and Balinese can be great options for allergy-sensitive residents.  

Finicky or not, cats are relatively low-maintenance and don’t require outdoor walks, making them ideal companions for seniors looking for companionship without the extra work of walking a dog. Plus, their playful yet low-key personality makes them perfect for cozy apartments. 

Other Apartment Pets – Feathers, Shells and (Yikes) Scales

We know not everyone is a cat or dog person. Some seniors prefer birds, reptiles or the tranquility of aquarium fish. South Port Square happily considers all pet requests on a case-to-case basis. Let’s just say a beloved tortoise is likely a “yes,” but an adult boa constrictor or squawking cockatoo might be best left to the zoos and jungles. 

Local Animal Shelters and Adoption Opportunities

If you’re considering adopting a furry friend, local animal shelters are fantastic resources. Many shelters offer neutered, vaccinated, apartment-ready pets looking for a forever home. Visiting a shelter also helps you find an animal that best matches your personality and living situation. Plus, adoption supports giving animals a second chance to find the love and care they deserve. 

At South Port Square, we believe pets have the power to enrich lives. That’s why we love when residents bring their animal family members to share in our community. To learn more about our pet-friendly policies or to see our community pet amenities like dog parks, contact us today to schedule a visit!