The Benefits of Pet Ownership

Having a pet can have a positive impact on our lives.  Especially if you are an older adult with limited mobility and limited opportunities for social interaction, a pet can be a welcome companion.  If you are considering assisted living for a family member (with or without a pet) you should consider the benefits of pet friendly communities.

Some senior living communities have a resident pet; a dog or cat that belongs to all the residents.  This is a great way to enjoy the benefits of pet companionship without the direct responsibility of its care.

Some assisted living communities will allow residents to bring cats or dogs, but may have restrictions as to size.  Some senior communities will evaluate the appropriateness of a pet on a case by case basis.  A large gentle, quiet dog may be a better fit in a community than a small, frisky pup that barks and chews furniture.  There is typically a non-refundable fee associated with pets, yet this is typically only a one-time fee at time of move-in.  Any pet moving into a community must have proof of current vaccinations, health records, and of course, a license.

There are some issues that will need to be considered and addressed.

• What happens if the senior is no longer able to properly care for a pet?
• What if a cat box needs attention or a dog needs a walk twice a day?
• Who will be in charge of taking the pet to the vet?
• What about bathing or grooming?

The answers to these questions will depend upon the senior community you choose.

There are communities that are willing to provide care to pets, with the pet having their own plan of care.  Usually, there are fees associated for the staff caring for a pet, but then the worries of physically caring for the animal are resolved.  All that remains for the older adult is to enjoy the friendship of their pet.  There are also outside pet care professionals that will care for an assisted living animal, inclusive of walking a pet or grooming them. There are myriad of pet services available from additional service providers as well.

The simple act of petting an animal can reduce blood pressure, raise endorphin levels, and decrease cholesterol.  Pets promote psychological well-being and greatly reduce anxiety and stress.  Pets love us unconditionally and satisfy our need to touch and be touched.  They can reduce the feelings of loneliness and isolation older adults often experience.  Pet owners seem to be able to cope better with the problems of aging.  According to the Delta Society, world-renowned pet therapy providers since 1977, seniors with dogs go to the doctor less and have higher survival rates from diseases and illnesses.

Many assisted living communities have visiting animal programs as part of their activity program.  Some animal obedience societies now have traveling dog shows that visit senior communities regularly.

People with dementia seem to gain particular benefits from the presence of animals.  It does not require complex thinking to interact with a dog or cat.  The pets adapt their behaviors well to people who may difficulties with talking or walking.  Enjoying the companionship of a pet can help ease the aging process and can help increase a person’s quality of life.