We know how much furry friends can have a positive effect on mental health, loneliness and can help lower stress levels. Studies have also shown that owning a pet can improve physical health too, by encouraging an active lifestyle. That's why cats and dogs are now allowed in most West Kent homes.
White Oak Court became pet friendly in 2019 and it’s made a huge difference to residents – with both cats and dogs now living at the scheme.
This includes six-year-old Yorkshire Terrier, Zeb, who lives with his owner Brenda.
Brenda is originally from Kent but had moved to Cheshire with her husband for work. After sadly losing her husband, she wanted to move back to Kent with Zeb to be around family in her retirement years. She was lucky enough to find a one-bedroom flat in White Oak Court – coincidentally the same scheme where her sister-in-law lives!
Zeb is becoming quickly accustomed to life in a flat, with him being perfectly behaved – and even answering on the morning check-up calls with a little bark!
While Zeb doesn’t go into the communal lounge or dining room, neighbours at the scheme love saying hello to him in the hallway when he’s out and about.
Michelle Whitlock, Scheme Manager at White Oak Court said: “We love having Zeb here. Pets now being allowed at the scheme is a life changer for so many people. We know pets are part of the family and for lots of people, would be the difference between moving to a better home for their circumstances or not. They’re part of the family so it’s fantastic people don’t need to make the choice between moving into a scheme or giving up their pet.”
To find out more about our pets policy, visit our website www.westkent.org/pets.