Only 18 per cent of aged care homes in Australia allow residents to keep a companion animal.

Companion Animal Network Australia (CANA) says animals in aged care homes are beneficial to residents’ mental health.

CANA CEO Trish Ennis spoke with Oly Peterson on 6PRs Perth Live.

“It allows people to get on with their lives, be more realistic and adjust to residential aged care a lot easier if they have their best friend with them,” Ms Ennis said.

Press PLAY to hear how aged care facilities could implement changes