Mary and Pepsi love their pet-friendly retirement home

When Mary decided to downsize, she knew she had to find a pet-friendly retirement home so she could keep her beloved Maltese Terrier. Read their story.

Applegate House homeowner Mary Strange and her dog Pepsi
News and community
Posted 09 January 2024
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A pet friendly retirement in Wiltshire

Having decided it was time to downsize from a three bedroom house where she lived with her rescue dog, Pepsi, Mary needed a retirement community where pets were allowed so she didn’t have to give him up. Retired nurse, Mary, 79, had adopted the Maltese Terrier when he was three and a half. Now ten years old, he was in a terrible state and had very bad teeth – as a result he only has four left today. He desperately needed a loving forever home which Mary was happy to provide – and he gives her lots of love in return.

Mary came across Applegate House, an independent living retirement community in Trowbridge, Wiltshire having viewed the plans with a friend and, after being reassured that Pepsi was welcome, chose an apartment on the ground floor so she can walk him more easily.

She was one of the first homeowners at Applegate House, and he was a great companion to help her meet people. Even now, if she’s on a walk, they chat to new people and she says it’s great to have the daily interactions. Mary adds “Pepsi is absolutely gorgeous. He’s one of those little dogs that likes to make friends with everyone. He doesn’t bark and that’s very important when living in a retirement community as you don’t want to upset your neighbours. Pepsi is such a part of the Applegate House community and other homeowners will always stroke him and say hello when they see him. Lots of people also kindly offer to take him out if I can’t for any reason.”

Pepsi gave Mary motivation to exercise after she had hip and knee replacements. “He helps me with my physical and mental health. He thinks he is still a puppy and sleeps on my bed and is always by my side.”

When Pepsi was hurt after being attacked by another dog the community rallied around saying ‘he’s not just your dog, he’s ours too’ which means an awful lot to her. Pepsi brings a great deal of joy to Applegate House.

Find your own pet friendly retirement property

Pets are very much part of the family and are good for your health too, which is why, with a few exceptions, we are happy to welcome pets into McCarthy Stone communities. Read our pet policy here, or find pet-friendly retirement properties for sale or rent near you.

Got a question?

Contact our friendly team by calling 0800 201 4811 or via our online form.

 

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