2025 Pet Friendly Aged Care Survey

The AVA is pleased to support the 2025 Pet Friendly Aged Care Survey by the Companion Animal Network Australia (CANA), which aligns with the AVA policy 'Companion animals in aged-care accommodation'.  

CANA is inviting aged care providers, policymakers, pet owners and community members to take part in the survey and help shape policies that support pet companionship in aged care. 

As stated in AVA’s policy: 

“The integration of companion animals into retirement and aged-care facilities has many potential benefits. The aged care industry are encouraged to take responsibility for implementing such initiatives. Veterinarians should be involved in protocol development and care of these animals to ensure their optimal health and welfare, to maximise benefits and minimise risks for the animals and facility residents.” 

According to CANA’s 2023 survey, only 18% of aged care facilities allow residents to keep pets, and just 9% of older pet owners living at home receive any assistance with their pet’s care. 

Take the survey: petfriendlyagedcare.com.au/surveys