Those of us who have pets of our own well know the value of the unconditional love and calming effect they can provide for us. It is not hard to train your pet to be a suitable visitor for nursing home residents, and in the process, it can strengthen the bond between you and your pet while opening the door to meeting some very nice people. Most homes will require that your pet's vaccinations and shots are all up to date and that they are in good health. Since older persons, especially those in nursing home settings, often have lower immune systems than the general population, this is an important detail. Since rules concerning pets in a nursing care facility may differ widely by state, it is imperative that you find out what pertains to your area.
Leash training is recommended.
Even a well behaved animal may behave unpredicatably in a new setting. It is very important to know the animal you are bringing in. It is most effective if the animal is your own and you already have a bond. Someone else's pet or a new pet may not trust you in this new situation enough to behave in a favorable manner. A friendly, outgoing animal works better than a shy one.