Home is where the pets are at Tamarisk and Shalom

There’s a special kind of warmth that comes from being greeted by a wagging tail or the gentle nudge of a furry friend. At Tamarisk Senior Living and Shalom Apartments in Warwick, pets aren’t just welcome, they’re part of the family.

From lap dogs to certified therapy companions, our four-legged residents play a powerful role in bringing comfort, joy and connection to our community. A morning stroll around the courtyard becomes a moment to greet neighbors. A quiet cuddle during the evening news becomes a source of calm and companionship. These small, shared rituals of care and presence create a much larger sense of home.

For many residents, bringing a beloved pet along made the transition into senior living or apartment life a lot easier. “I wasn’t sure how I’d adjust at first, but having my dog here made all the difference,” one Tamarisk resident shared. “She helped me settle in, meet neighbors and feel at home.” Pets provide emotional support that goes beyond words; they offer loyalty, familiarity and a sense of purpose.

And it’s not just their owners who benefit. Pets have a unique way of bringing everyone together. “Even people who don’t have pets stop to say “hi” when they see Malachi in the hallway,” said a Shalom resident. In a community where connection matters, these animals help foster friendship and warmth in every hallway.

This May, as we celebrate the special bonds between people and pets, we invite you to experience the warmth and community at Tamarisk firsthand. Join us for our Jewish Traditions and Tours Open House on Sunday, May 18, from 10 a.m. to 2 p.m. and see what makes this place feel like home – for residents and their pets alike. Enjoy a delicious Bagel Bar with all the fixings, a hot cup of coffee or tea and catch a special screening of “Joey the Bagel,” a short documentary celebrating Jewish heritage, humor and connection.

You will have a chance to meet our team, tour our beautiful grounds and maybe even get a tail wag or two.

JESSICA HOARD is the senior manager of Marketing and Communications at Jewish Collaborative Services.