Paws that brought us together!

Rangeford Villages’ Homewood Grove in Surrey provides the perfect environment for both owners and their pets to thrive. Cheryl (68) and Valerie (81) demonstrate how everyday moments, and four-legged companions, can help build meaningful connections within a community.

Deciding to move to the pet-friendly retirement village seven months ago with her late husband, marked a new chapter for Cheryl.  “My husband was 15 years older than me so we knew we needed to move from our house in Twickenham to a new, fresh, fully-integrated apartment like we have now at Homewood Grove. The move was to make life easier for the both of us with a lower-maintenance property. When we first visited, we were completely blown away.

“My husband sadly passed away soon after moving in, however I know every day that moving here was one of the best decisions I’ve ever made. The community around me has been central to everything. Feeling supported, cared for and connected has been exactly what I needed, rather than being in a larger house all by myself.

“Polly [Cheryl’s cocker spaniel] and I are so settled here. I’ve made some very special friendships since moving here than mean so much to me. Valerie and I have particularly bonded over our beautiful dogs. We sometimes go for dog walks together or I’ll walk Shadow for her if she’s busy and vice versa for my Polly.

“Having a pet is so important for my mental health, it’s that constant companionship and motivation; being part of the dog community here at Homewood Grove gives me such a sense of belonging. The pet-friendly nature of the village was one of the key factors for choosing to move here.”

Valerie moved to Homewood Grove from Sheperton after feeling lonely and isolated following the passing of her husband five years ago. She echoes Cheryl in saying “Finding a retirement property that was pet-friendly was central to my decision making.

“Shadow and I have settled in so well since moving in. We go out for walks four times a day and something I didn’t necessarily expect prior to living here, was how important the dog community at the village would become to my lifestyle.

“It’s such a lovely group of owners and we love our pets endlessly. All the dogs have become friends, like Shadow and Polly, and we help each other out when needed. Dogs give you a whole new lease of life and they’ve developed fantastic friendships between all of us. The community here really do look out for each other.

“Everyone loves Shadow! We can’t walk past reception without the team giving her treats, it’s adorable.

“As much as downsizing was tough, I love living in an apartment now and it suits Shadow really well too. The surroundings are just perfect for dog walks, so much greenery and there is the park opposite. Having a pet forces you outside which is so important; lots of fresh air, exercise and a talking point to be social with other walkers.”

At Homewood Grove, a new Bark Park has just been officially opened by Rangeford Villages’ Pet Ambassador, Dr Scott Miller. This secure outdoor space has been created for owners and their furry friends to explore and thrive. The park features agility equipment designed to support both physical and mental enrichment along with an owner’s bench, Paws for Thoughts, the perfect spot to sit back and relax.

Both Cheryl and Valerie are very happy that the park has now been opened, providing another safe and secure place on their doorstop for their pooches to play and exercise.