SENIORS AND PETS: SOME CONSIDERATIONS • Those with pets often develop healthy exercise routines. After all, Fido has to be walked Adopting a pet, no matter regularly. how old we are, is a • Seniors report a renewed major life commitment. sense of purpose when Seniors may wonder how having a pet. A furry they will care for their companion must be pets as they age and cared for and a person if it is wise to continue may feel needed. having a pet. This is a Nothing says you are very personal decision needed more than a based on many factors friendly purr and nudge for which there is no “one to get up and feed me size fits all” answer. NOW. What we do know is • Certain pets may provide that owning a pet is security. A barking dog physically and mentally may deter an intruder beneficial, no matter from attempting to enter how old you are. Studies a home uninvited, even if show that just 15 minutes the bark originates with of bonding with a pet a five-pound chihuahua. can reduce levels of the Most thieves do not fight or flight hormone want anything to draw cortisol and increase attention or alert others levels of the feel-good to their presence. hormone serotonin. This • Having a pet often result may immediately result in increased social in a decrease in blood interactions. Trips to pressure, heart rate, and the vet, the groomer, stress. Over the long pet store, walks in the term, these interactions park, etc. all increase the may have a beneficial opportunity for social effect on cholesterol interactions. levels, improve depression, and may In addition to the even fight heart disease positives, there are other and stroke. factors that Seniors should consider when Six Major Reasons to deciding on having a pet. Adopt a Pet Pet ownership can be costly. Studies estimate • Having a pet is calming the average first-year and may reduce anxiety cost of dog ownership and stress. to be approximately • Pet ownership provides $800.00. The maintenance companionship and include feeding helps reduce loneliness. costs the animal, preventative Submitted by Patricia Avery, Caregiver Resource Center Program Coordinator
Extension Connection
August 2022
vaccinations, illness/vet bills, and grooming to name a few. The physical needs of a pet should also be considered along with any limitations a senior may have in meeting them. Is the senior able to walk the dog, bend and lift cat litter or food bowls? Many of us have heard the stories or have had friends or relatives that have fallen over their much-loved pet. Falls are a significant concern for seniors as a fracture may be life-changing or even life-limiting for some. It is estimated that over 86,000 falls each year are attributable to tripping over a pet. After consideration is given to each individual’s unique situation, and the decision to move forward with pet adoption is made, the next question becomes what type of pet? Senior pets, defined as 8 years old or older, may be a good fit. Typically, a Senior pet is calmer, may be housebroken, and generally prefers a quieter home. Many organizations offer special programs for Seniors to adopt Senior pets which have reduced fees for adoption. For those for whom a pet may not be the best option, many senior centers and care centers offer pet therapy Page 17
