Human-animal interaction (HAI) is a potentially valuable form of meaningful engagement among assisted living (AL) residents yet has received very little research attention, especially among those with dementia. This research addresses the gap in knowledge by 1) examining opportunities for human-animal interaction among AL residents, including those living with dementia and 2) Understand the experiences with and significance of human-animal interaction by identify influential factors that play a role in meaningful engagement. To address these aims, I analyzed qualitative data from the Grounded Theory (GT) study, “Meaningful Engagement and Quality of Life in Persons Living with Dementia in Assisted Living.” Using a modified form of GT, I analyzed data from 6 diverse AL communities studied for one year each through participant observation and in-depth interviews. I found HAI opportunities were presented through the AL community, family and friends, and depended on resident’s interest in animals. Findings show that HAI opportunities provided connection through social, physical, cognitive, and emotional engagement. Findings have implications for practice and research by highlighting the significance of meaningful engagement through connections to the animal, care partner, and environment.