When I was looking for care homes for my husband, one of the first questions I asked before I even looked at it seriously was if dogs were allowed to visit. Our dog is so important to my husband and I was not going to deprive him of his dog as well as his freedom.
The home also has visiting PAT dogs, miniature ponies, rabbits, reptiles and birds of prey. All are allowed in the lounges as well as residents rooms. I take my dog in on nearly every visit, and most of the residents faces light up when she comes in. No one has been ill or objected to any of these animals coming in. My mother's care home had 2 resident cats, and I think some homes allow residents to keep a cat.
Of course my dog is on a lead at all times in the home, and under my supervision, but I do let her off in the garden and we play ball with her.
I think its probably no good trying to change the policy of the care home, but I think its a great shame that they do not allow residents or relatives dogs to visit or even PAT dogs, as it gives such pleasure, and has been proven to be very theraputic.