COMPANION PETS
Adopting a dog or cat later in life
From Metro Creative Connection
Companion animals bring great
joy to their owners. The uncondi-
tional 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 affec-
tion, 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. This is particular-
ly 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 sleep-
ing on their owners’ laps.
• Small dogs that can be active
within the house might be a good
Photo by Metro Editorial Features
idea as well, especially for seniors
with mobility issues. They’re also
easily transported to and from vet
appointments.
It’s important that seniors care-
fully 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.
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