Before Red Rock Pointe Retirement Community became home for Joan Shaughnessy this year, she already felt welcomed because her ‘Gidget’ was also.
“She’s my baby,” Joan says. “I couldn’t be anywhere without her.”
Gidget is Joan’s six-year-old Havanese dog, her companion since she was six weeks old and who lives up to her name in fine fashion, donning dresses and a friendly demeanor up and down the Red Rock Pointe hallways on her daily outings. Something, Joan says, delights residents and allows them to experience some of the same joy Gidget has given her.
“Everyone thinks she’s the cutest dog in the place,” and while that is hard for Joan to argue, she is quick to compliment the other pets who, too, make home and retirement living sweeter. Many take advantage of the gated dog park on site, but because of Gidget’s small size, Joan prefers to let her roam freely in her apartment and accompany her on leisurely walks around the community.
Joan knew that no matter where she would ultimately call home, it would be someplace that was pet-friendly and accepting of her furry family member. Time has quickly proven that Red Rock Pointe was the most fitting choice for both Joan and Gidget.
This isn’t by chance but a community’s concentrated commitment to residents during a significant life change. “Moving to a new community is a big transition, and we know that pets provide comfort, routine and companionship,” says Dana Andreski, Director of Field Operations for Red Rock Pointe. “For many of our residents, pets aren’t just animals–they’re cherished members of the family.”
The Havanese breed is hypoallergenic, making Gidget’s company even easier for residents to enjoy without the worry of getting sick from or having a reaction to the traditional fur that many other dogs have. This also works in Gidget’s favor. “She loves people,” explains Joan, “and the community at Red Rock Pointe loves her back”.
Between warm pats and adoring looks from neighbors, Gidget has provided Joan with the chance to meet and connect with other residents and build friendships in this new season of life she has entered. As she notes, some of them are married or have partners while others, like herself, are single, making these bonds especially meaningful.
When her sidekick isn’t charming everyone in her path, Joan enjoys some of the wide amenities that Red Rock Pointe has to offer. “They have a lot of recreation to do,” such as exercise classes, crafts and movies, she says. Her favorite activity so far is indisputable: “Bean Bag Baseball–I like that.” Joan also enjoys the dining, joking that perhaps a little too much. “I’ve gained weight since I’ve been here because the food is so good. And they have 24/7 soft-serve ice cream [that] everybody is always stopping and getting,” she adds.
As she continues to settle into her new home, Joan looks forward to immersing herself in more of what’s outside her front door, including outings with new friends (and perhaps even an exercise class or two), all while taking comfort in having Gidget by her side.
“By embracing both residents and their pets, we’re able to create a warm, welcoming environment where the familiarity of a beloved companion helps residents feel comfortable, connected and more at home from day one,” affirms Dana.
For Joan, this level of care goes beyond formalities and is noticed and deeply appreciated. “They are very helpful here if you need anything done,” she says. “I would recommend Red Rock Pointe to anyone who is 55 and up.”
“Moving to a new community is a big transition, and we know that pets provide comfort, routine and companionship,” says Dana Andreski, Director of Field Operations for Red Rock Pointe.