Companion Animal Network Australia’s (CANA) 2025 Pet Friendly Aged Care Survey is now open to help shape policies for pets in aged care.

According to CANA’s 2023 Aged Care Survey: Status of Pets in Aged Care, only 18 per cent of aged care facilities allow residents to keep pets. For older pet owners receiving government-funded Home Care Packages, just 9 per cent receive any assistance with pet care.

Trish Ennis, CEO of CANA, said outdated policies and a lack of formal support are forcing many older Australians to give up their pets when they enter aged care or struggle to meet their pets’ needs.

“No one should have to say goodbye to a beloved pet simply because they’re growing older or need extra care.”

The 2025 Pet Friendly Aged Care Survey is now open, with CANA urging aged care providers, policymakers, pet owners, and the broader community to participate.

“CANA is calling on all Australians to seriously consider what this means for their families and how it could personally affect them at some point in the future.”

Research shows pets offer significant benefits for older adults, including reducing loneliness, stress, pain, and anxiety, while encouraging social engagement and physical activity.

“Through our Pet Friendly Aged Care program, we work to preserve this critical bond, keeping people and pets together for as long as it benefits their health and wellbeing,” said Ennis.

CANA hopes the survey will help shape policies that provide better support for pet companionship in aged care.

“We believe it’s time for a change, and by participating in the survey, you are helping advocate for policies that allow older Australians to continue experiencing the companionship of their beloved pets and helping to keep pets at home.”

The survey is open to the general public, residential aged care staff and residents, retirement village staff and residents, in-home aged care workers and recipients, and home care providers.

To take part in the survey, click here.

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