Genesee Gardens has play dates for pets

At Holiday Retirement, moments are sweeter when shared, even for pets! Genesee Gardens puts this theory to the test with its pet play dates! Almost once a month, residents congregate in the lobby and bring their furry friends along for the social hour. Most of the pets are small breed dogs, but the occasional cat has also been known to RSVP!

“It’s amazing to see all of the pets play together,” says enrichment coordinator Kelly Yoder. “In all the times we’ve had pet play dates, we’ve never had a single fight or incident. All the animals love each other’s company.”

Resident Pamela Williams and her Cavalier King Charles Spaniel Rusty (pictured) are regulars at pet play dates. “I love being able to bring Rusty to play dates – I want to have him with me as often as possible,” said Pamela. “He loves everyone here and figures everyone has come to see him!”

Pamela and Rusty’s story, like many pet adoption stories, is a heartwarming one. “I was looking for a loveable small dog after my husband’s death in 2003,” explained Pamela. “It’s wonderful being able to have him here. As a widow, having my puppy with me has helped my loss a lot.”