Jann and Alan Page were unequivocal about their choice for a retirement village when they were looking 13 years ago.

If it wasn’t dog-friendly it wasn’t an option.

Bethanie Beachside was the only provider that accepted furry companions and the Pages were among the first dozen couples to move in.

“A pet provides crucial interaction as you get out and about, putting you in contact with other residents and encouraging socialisation,” Mrs Page said.

“We’ve seen couples lose a partner and their dogs are key to their mental wellbeing; we wouldn’t be without them.”

Their two dachshunds Mabel and Frieda love to visit neighbours and trot about in the areas surrounding their Yanchep village.

“Dog people generally seek each other out and with over 20 dogs here we have lots of wonderful friends.

“We used to visit the aged care home next door with our two original dachshunds.

“The dogs and the residents got so much joy.

“Bethanie is also unique in allowing residents to replace their dogs when they lose one, which again was a huge selling point for us.”

This article appeared on Yanchep News Online on 29 July 2023.