SpringRidge at Charbonneau By KERRY PHILLIPS
SpringRidge residents celebrate the ‘ dog days of summer ’ with furry companions |
As the warm rays of the sun stretch across Charbonneau , the unmistakable signs of summer are beginning to unfold . With the arrival of July , we find ourselves immersed in the cherished “ dog days of summer ” — a time when the world slows down , and the essence of pure joy seems to emanate from the wagging tails and slobbery kisses of our four-legged friends .
At SpringRidge at Charbonneau , where the spirit of camaraderie and companionship thrives , pet ownership holds an undeniable connection to the dog days of summer . Residents Charlotte Nicholas and Waunie Nolte say their pooches are a significant part of their life , bringing warmth , laughter and endless adventures .
“ A pet-friendly senior living community was very important as I began my research ,” said Charlotte . “ I ’ ve owned a pet for most of my life ,
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and Caesar is such a wonderful companion .”
She credits the chihuahua-terrier mix with helping her meet her neighbors when she moved to SpringRidge two-and-a-half years ago .
“ Everyone wanted to pet Caesar , and he loves the attention ,” she said . “ It was funny that my neighbors remembered his name but referred to me as ‘ Caesar ’ s mom .’ He ’ s still quite popular at the community .”
Charlotte ’ s residence , often called “ Caesar ’ s Palace ,” is located on the first floor , with a fenced-in area for Caesar to frolic and enjoy the summer weather . SpringRidge ’ s idyllic setting with meandering walking paths is perfect for the pair to enjoy their early-morning stroll . After returning , Charlotte heads to The Charbonneau Room , the onsite restaurant , for a delicious
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Charlotte and Caesar with Waunie and Dixie enjoy the ‘ dog days of summer ’ at SpringRidge .
COURTESY PHOTO : KERRY PHILLIPS
breakfast while Caesar takes a mid-morning nap . Their afternoon is filled with many adventures , including a doggy playdate with Levi , the pug , who lives a few residences away .
Waunie ’ s dog , Dixie , is the only pet on the third floor of the community , but she has plenty of friends throughout SpringRidge .
“ We ’ re located right next to the elevator , and she knows her way around ,” said Waunie of her 7.5-pound Shih Tzu . “ She helped me get to know many of my SpringRidge neighbors when I moved here a year ago . I always say that if you want to meet people , get a dog !”
Waunie said she visited four senior living communities before selecting SpringRidge . She was impressed by the community ’ s stellar
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reputation and welcomed the invitation from her daughter ’ s friend to walk their dogs together once she moved .
“ SpringRidge is a great place for dogs ! I wouldn ’ t have even considered a community that wasn ’ t pet friendly ,” she explained . “ I ’ ve had Dixie since she was 2 months old , and she ’ s now 9.5 .”
Like Charlotte and Caesar , the two-some enjoys the community ’ s trails and head out for walks twice a day . Both ladies credit their pets with keeping them physically active .
“ The trails are a real plus of living here ,” said Waunie . “ It ’ s great to be able to get out in nature and soak in the beauty of Mother Nature .”
It is no secret that pet ownership brings immeasurable benefits , particularly for older adults . In addition to exercise , dog ownership has been associated with increased happiness and a lower risk of heart disease . But it ’ s not just Charlotte and Waunie reaping the benefits of their pets . Studies show that even interacting with animals can reduce stress , lower blood pressure and increase overall well-being .
“ My neighbors get such a kick from seeing Dixie coming and going ,” added Waunie . “ It feels good knowing she ’ s bringing a little joy to their day .”
The SpringRidge at Charbonneau campus offers a comprehensive menu of lifestyle options , including CARF-accredited assisted living and memory care services at SpringRidge Court . For more information or to schedule a personal tour , please visit SpringRidgeatCharbonneau . com .
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