Pet-Friendly in Matthews, NC

For a lot of older adults, moving into assisted living is only workable if the dog or cat can come too. "Pet-friendly" covers a range of policies among the 9 facilities in Matthews that allow residents to keep animals, and the range matters. Some communities let residents bring a small dog or cat they already own but won't accept new pets after move-in. Others have weight or breed limits, require proof of vaccinations and a vet reference, or charge a monthly pet fee or refundable deposit. A smaller number take a genuinely open approach, with staff who help walk dogs or manage litter boxes when a resident's mobility declines.

When you're comparing options, ask directly about pet size and breed restrictions, what happens if a resident can no longer physically care for the animal, whether there's an extra fee, and whether the community has outdoor space suited to a dog (a fenced yard is very different from a small patio). Also ask what the backup plan is if a resident is hospitalized and needs someone to feed or walk their pet for a few days.

Our rankings weigh these details along with staffing, care quality, and resident feedback. See the full breakdown in the ranked guide to assisted living facilities in Matthews, NC, and read how we score communities on our methodology page.