At Tapestry, we know that pets are important members of your family, and that’s why we warmly welcome them in our communities.

Tapestry at Victoria Harbour residents Margo and Ron say Tapestry’s accepting policy towards pets was important in their decision to move into the community. “We were drawn to Tapestry because it has such a modern look and feel to it that extends to the pet policy,” say the proud parents of Sambo. “Having our dog with us was a big deciding factor. If we look around and the dog’s not there, we feel like part of our family is missing.”

Maryann, a resident at Tapestry at Village Gate West, couldn’t agree more about the importance of the community’s accepting pet policy. “I always thought I would have to wait until (my dog) Lars passed away before I moved in,” says Maryann. “But then Lisa (Sales Manager), said I could move in with him and I did not hesitate. My bedroom at home was upstairs and Lars could no longer go up the stairs. My first night at Village Gate West, he slept right beside my bed and I have not seen him happier!”

Besides being great companions who give unconditional love, pets bring with them a number of benefits for individuals of all ages.

Improved fitness
Dogs in particular need to be walked several times a day, and that regular exercise is good for you. Even a low-intensity daily 20-minute walk can improve heart health, lower blood pressure, and relieve stress.

Katarina, who lives at Tapestry at Arbutus Walk, says her dog Harvey likes to walk three times each day and that means she goes out more than she would otherwise. “Everyone at Tapestry is nice to him and he is always trying to get treats at the front desk after his walks,” Katarina adds.

Westie-owner, Harvey, who lives at Tapestry at Victoria Harbour, agrees that his dog Maggie is what motivates him to go out for long walks. And, he says, “Maggie has brought people to me. We’ve become friends with others at Tapestry and around Victoria because of her.”

On any given day, you can see Tapestry at Village Gate West resident, Bill, walking his lovely dog Molly. Rain, snow, sleet and even the height of humidity on summer days, can’t keep Bill and Molly from enjoying their daily walks!

Better mental health
In one study, more than three-quarters of pet owners said their animals help reduce their stress levels. The same study found that 70 per cent of older adults said their pet helps them cope with physical or emotional symptoms.

“When I made the move to Tapestry it was a big time of change for me, so being able to have my dog Colby helped make things easier,” says Julie, another Tapestry at Victoria Harbour resident.

Olga, another Tapestry at Arbutus Walk resident, says her five-year-old retired show dog Rene is not only her companion, but “he brings joy and vitality to my life. He makes me whole physically, emotionally and spiritually,” she adds.

Social
Pets are also great conversation starters and can help you build connections with others in your Tapestry community and in the neighbourhood. Ralph’s dog Sophie has lived at Tapestry at Wesbook Village most of her seven years. Sophie really knows how to charm her fellow residents, says Greg, a Concierge at the community. “She gets to know everyone around her and ‘plays’ them to get what she wants – including food and belly rubs (and more food),” he says. Bentley, a lovely five-year-old that belongs to Wesbrook Village resident Audrey, is sweet and lovable, adds Greg. “He loves to charm others and likes to just hang out!”

Sue, who lives at Tapestry at Arbutus Walk with her dog Buddi, says the fact Tapestry welcomes dogs in their communities was a big part of her decision to move here. “People here have been very receptive and everyone loves Buddi and enjoys seeing him. Buddi loves to have a conversation with everyone and it’s a very good way to get to know your neighbours,” Sue says.

Jerry and Julie, who live at Tapestry at Victoria Harbour with their Dachshunds Sadie and Max, along with two rescue cats (Grace and Murray) echo this. “We hardly have a day where people are not stopping us for a picture with our Dachshunds or waving us down to tell us a few ‘weiner dog’ jokes, or just chat,” they say.

Taking care of a pet can also give you a sense of purpose and make you feel needed, which can be particularly important for seniors who may have lost a long-time partner.

Chris at Tapestry at Village Gate West says his “little friend” Samantha or Sam for short is a “treasure and the perfect companion”.

When you move into Tapestry, we do everything we can to make sure you feel at home, including welcoming your pets. Our employees and residents have worked together to create a harmonious, pet-friendly environment where everyone can feel comfortable.

“Most people know Lola’s name,” says Viola, a resident at Tapestry at Village Gate West, commenting on her sweet older dog. Lola fits right in as she is “another senior at the community”, says Viola.

If Tapestry sounds like the right kind of retirement living community for you and your beloved pet, please contact us. We would be pleased to host you for lunch and a tour, and also showcase the wonderful neighbourhood just waiting for your furry friend!