Churchill Retirement Living Celebrates National Pet Month in Formby

Keeping a pet is extremely rewarding but the unseen benefits can be far greater, especially in later life.

Churchill Retirement Living regularly sees the positive impact pet ownership has on the health and wellbeing of its Owners, which is why, unlike some other retirement developments, at Trinity Lodge in Formby, Owners are welcome to bring well-behaved cats, dogs and caged birds when they move.

To celebrate National Pet Month (April), Churchill’s Regional Marketing Manager, Bernadette Hennelly, provides five benefits of keeping a pet in retirement:

1. Reduces Stress

Stress is something we all try to avoid but sometimes there’s no escaping it. Retirement is a time to kick back and enjoy life and a pet can help you to achieve this. It has been said that pet owners have significantly lower stress levels than those who don’t own a cat, dog or other furry friend. The affection that pets provide helps us to get through hard times and provide much needed love when we’re feeling down.

2. Increases Physical Activity

Keeping active in your later years can seem like a chore sometimes. We know it’s good for us but a day at the gym may not be as appealing as it once was. Pets encourage playfulness, laughter, and exercise, which gives a boost to your immune system and your energy. Taking your dog for a stroll once a day provides some much needed exercise while allowing you some enjoyment and companionship.

3. Increases Social Interaction

Sustaining a social network isn’t always easy as you grow older and pets can be a great social ice breaker. Whether you’re taking your dog for a stroll or chatting to people about your cat, these animals are a shared interest which allows for endless conversation.

4. Improves Mental Health

Playing with, chatting to or just holding a pet is believed to increase our brain activity and improve our mood. If you live alone, it’s easy to feel down, especially if you used to have a busy household and a large family. Your animal companion can give you that lift you need and we all know there’s nothing better after a difficult day than coming home to a purring cat or a wagging tail.

5. Improves Physical Health

You can overcome many of the physical challenges associated with aging by taking good care of yourself. Looking after an animal can help you to appreciate the importance of this. Making sure you take your pet out and about can help you to lower blood pressure, reduce the effect of arthritis and keep you feeling great.

Val Down moved to a Churchill Retirement Living apartment with her dog, Georgie. She said: “Bringing my little dog Georgie has been no problem. She has adapted wonderfully to apartment life, and loves looking at passers-by from the balcony window. Most importantly, the Owners at the Lodge love seeing her. The animal contact is so important to many, and Georgie laps up the attention.”

For further information, please contact Trinity Lodge by calling 01704 740 366 or by visiting the show complex, open Tuesday to Saturday, from 10.00am to 5.00pm. Alternatively, please visit www.churchillretirement.co.uk