Pets Are Family at New Pond Village
The loyal companionship of pets brings heart and happiness to our community
Hometown Weekly recently featured New Pond Village in a story about one of our most beloved community features—our pets.
Man’s best friend. Fur babies. Feathered friends. Whatever we call them, pets bring something special to our lives. The benefits of pet ownership are especially meaningful for retirees, like those who live at New Pond Village in Walpole, a continuing care retirement community that warmly welcomes four-legged residents.
“It’s the companionship,” says resident Mike Segroves, who moved to New Pond Village in the summer of 2024 with his wife and two pets—a Dachshund named Ella Bella and a tabby cat named Goldie, both four years old. “They think they’re sisters. The other night I was at one end of the couch with Ella Bella, and my wife was at the other end with Goldie,” he says of their nightly routine.
A Warm Welcome for All
Shirley Hutchins moved to New Pond Village in 2014, just one year after adopting her beloved tuxedo cat, Annabelle, from the Neponset Valley Humane Society. “She brought me so much joy,” recalls Shirley. But more than that, Annabelle quickly acclimated to the community and helped Shirley feel at home in her new apartment too.
When Annabelle passed in December 2020, Shirley returned to the Humane Society, seeking companionship once again. Just a month later, she brought home Sophie, a spirited cat who once again filled her home with comfort and love. “She plays with all of her toys and has the funniest meows which makes me laugh,” Shirley says. “She has also become affectionate, but in a different way than Annabelle.”
A Daily Routine and a Community Boost
Beyond companionship, pets provide routine, socialization and motivation. “You can’t have a dog and not walk it,” says Mike, who has made many new friends thanks to his endearing sidekick. “It helps us get exercise and meet people. Taking her for a walk, everybody wants to say ‘hi’ to her.”
Ella Bella is the Segroves’ fourth Dachshund, and Mike says that breed in particular draws people’s attention and sparks conversations. “We’re constantly being told by people how they had relatives or neighbors who had one. Everyone has a story about a Dachshund.”
Friendly Faces, Furry and Otherwise
“We’re a very friendly and upbeat community,” says Campus Executive Director Adam Manchester, “and I think the pets we have here are a big part of that. Even those who don’t own a pet make a connection with our resident animals when they’re greeted in the hallway by a wagging tail.”
According to the American Humane Society, over half of adults over the age of 50 have at least one pet. The health benefits range from lower rates of depression and better cardiovascular health to increased cognitive function and social interaction. Pets can help release hormones that promote relaxation and well-being, boost moods and foster empathy, which helps create a stronger community.
Where Pets Are Truly Family
The lush grounds at New Pond Village may be perfect for dog walking, but even seniors with limited mobility can experience the benefits of pet ownership. Cats, birds or small companions offer comfort and companionship without the need for outdoor exercise. Whatever the pet, Mike, Shirley and others agree—life is richer with them around. As Shirley puts it, “they’re not just pets, they are family.”
To learn more about the pet-friendly lifestyle at New Pond Village, visit our featured article: New Pond Village: Where Pets Are Family.