ADOPTING A DOG OR CAT l ater

In Life

Companion animals bring great joy to their owners. The unconditional love cats and dogs provide appeals to people of all ages. While many people associate pets with kids who can’t wait to welcome the first cat or dog into their homes, pets can benefit aging men and women as well.

It’s not uncommon for seniors to feel lonely or depressed when they retire, their children move away or they lose a spouse or close friend or friends. The American Humane Society states that studies show pets help seniors overcome loneliness and depression by providing affection, company and entertainment. Pets also provide much-needed mental stimulation, and many pet owners find their pets help them become more physically active as well. Seniors who adopt pets may also feel a sense of purpose when helping animals who may not have anywhere to live.

LATER IN LIFE: Page 5

Adoption

From Page 3

One extra benefit of fostering, as opposed to adopting, is that in many cases, the rescue organization will pay for the animal’s food and veterinary care while they are in your home.

COMPANIONSHIP, JOY, AND HEALTH BENEFITS

Michelle Sternberg, development officer with Animal Allies, highlighted the many emotional and health benefits to adopting or fostering an animal; particularly for our elder population.

“Pets bring endless enjoyment and benefits to our lives,” Sternberg said. “From daily companionship, joy, and laughter to providing medical benefits like stress reduction, being a pet owner is a special privilege we believe everyone should enjoy.

“We are proud to partner with ‘Pets for the Elderly,’ a grant provider who offers funding to subsidize lowered adoption fees for seniors age 60-plus,” she added. “This special program provides funding to reduce

Mrs. Wags has an amputated tail, due to frostbite. Contributed Photo adoption fees by off-setting the costs involved with readying a pet for adoption, like spay and neuter, vaccinations, and daily care. Sometimes the adoption fee is covered completely thanks to this special partnership.

“Animal Allies’ mission is to ensure a loving home for every pet,” Sternberg continued. “We strongly believe that everyone should be able to own a pet and benefit from their love and companionship. Adopting a pet does so much more than simply giving an animal a home – it grows our capacity for love and the enjoyment of life, and that’s a very special thing.”

Are you ready to bring a pet into your home? Local options for animal adoption and fostering include Animal Allies, Douglas County Humane Society, and Ruff Start Rescue.

Later In Life

From Page 4

This is particularly true of older companion animals, which many young families are understandably hesitant to adopt. Mature pets might be an ideal fit for seniors.

When seniors are looking to adopt a pet, there are various reasons why older pets or particular animals might be the perfect fit for them.

• Adult pets may already be house trained, saving seniors the trouble and effort of training them.

• Seniors may find cats fit their lifestyles more than dogs, as cats are less active and do not need to be walked or played with as much as dogs. Cats also are small and easily maneuverable, meaning even seniors who have arthritis or other physical limitations can easily care for cats. Many cats are also content to spend long periods of time sleeping on their owners’ laps.

• Small dogs that can be active within the house might be a good idea as well, especially for seniors with mobility issues. They’re also easily transported to and from vet appointments.

It’s important that seniors carefully weigh the benefits of adopting a pet against any limitations they may have. Having a backup plan for care is advantageous as well. Seniors should not adopt a pet if they anticipate frequent travel or medical care that requires they be away from home for long periods of time.