Should You Have a Pet in Retirement? The Real Pros, Cons, and Costs

Introduction:

Retirement opens the door to more freedom, more time, and for many people, the chance to finally enjoy the companionship of a pet. Whether you’ve always been a dog lover, prefer the quiet charm of cats, or are considering something smaller and simpler, pets can bring enormous joy. But they also come with responsibilities that matter even more as we age.

Here’s a thoughtful look at the benefits, challenges, and financial realities of pet ownership in retirement, inspired by the experiences of longtime dog owner Tim Smart and recent research on aging and pets.

Why Pets Can Be a Gift in Retirement

For many older adults, pets offer something deeply meaningful: purpose.

Studies show that:

• 83% of older pet owners say their pets give them a sense of purpose

• 63% report reduced stress

• 44% say pets help them stay physically active

That’s not surprising. A dog’s wagging tail or a cat curling up beside you can be grounding, comforting, and energizing. Pets also encourage social interaction, dog owners, in particular, tend to be more socially active, which can be a major benefit as we age.

But First: Assess Your Health and Lifestyle

Pets require care, attention, and sometimes physical effort. Before bringing one home, consider:

Your mobility and stamina

• Dogs, especially larger or younger ones need regular walks.

• Senior dogs may require less exercise, but still need consistent care.

• Cats don’t need walks, but they do need feeding, litter maintenance, and help if you’re hospitalized.

Your support system

Who can help if you’re recovering from surgery, traveling, or facing an emergency? Identifying a neighbor, friend, or family member ahead of time can make all the difference.

Long‑term planning

It’s not pleasant to think about, but it’s important:
Who will care for your pet if something happens to you?
Some retirees even include pet care instructions in their wills.

The Financial Side: Pets Can Be Expensive

This is one of the biggest considerations.

According to the National Poll on Healthy Aging:

• 31% of pet owners over 50 say their pets strain their budget

• The strain is higher for women, those with lower incomes, and those in fair or poor health

Costs to plan for include:

• Food

• Routine vet visits

• Emergency medical care

• Grooming

• Boarding or pet‑friendly travel

Even with the costs, many retirees feel the emotional return is worth every penny.

Not Ready for a Dog or Cat? You Still Have Options

If a high‑maintenance pet doesn’t fit your lifestyle, consider alternatives:

• Fish – low‑maintenance but require tank cleaning

• Birds – social and engaging, though some require training and attention

• Small mammals – hamsters, guinea pigs, etc., though lifespans vary

Even small pets can provide companionship and structure to your day.

The Bottom Line: Pets Can Be Life‑Changing If You Plan Well

Dr. Lisa Gibbs, chief of geriatrics at UC Irvine, notes that older adults often have more unstructured time and fewer responsibilities, making pets a powerful source of purpose and emotional support. But she also emphasizes that pet ownership shouldn’t be taken lightly.

If you’re thoughtful about your health, finances, and long‑term plans, a pet can be one of the most rewarding parts of your retirement.

Do You Have a Pet in Retirement?

Everyone’s experience is different, and personal stories can help others make informed choices. What role do pets play in your life these days?