Pets and the Elderly

Cindy K. Sproles

More and more families are realizing the wonderful companionship provided by pets, not only in their immediate families but for their aging parents.

Pets provide a special kind of companionship by lifting the spirits of the sick and lonely. Hospitals and nursing homes use pet therapy to bring comfort or revive the attitude and demeanor of a sick patient. Animals sense human needs, and many are drawn with a unique compassion for those individuals. The touch of the soft fur of a cat or a tender nudge on a hand by a dog stirs an emotion that brings hope and even peace of mind.

When making the decision to bring a pet into your aging parent’s life, there are several items to be considered before the introduction is made.

• Space: does your loved one have ample space inside/outside to maintain a healthy pet? Cats require little open space, but toys and litter boxes can harbor a fall risk. Dogs need space to exercise and burn off excess energy. It’s important to first consider your loved one’s living space.

• Care required: Pets require care. Feeding, grooming, exercise, potty training, and seniors must have the physical capability to perform those tasks. If your aging parent has difficulty moving through their home, if standing or sitting is an issue, or even balance—then it’s wise to reconsider if a pet is right for them. Their safety and the safety of the pet is something that must be a high priority.

• Pet person or not: Remember, everyone is not a pet person. Some individuals are fearful of pets. They may have experienced a trauma involving an animal at some point that forces them away from animals. Other individuals are simply not pet lovers. Veterinarians and shelters see a large influx of surrendered pets after the holidays due to well-meaning children purchasing an animal for a parent who is not a pet lover. It may sound harsh, but more animals are euthanized after holidays than most other times of the year.

• Every pet is not for everybody: In other words, grandmother may think the puppy on the tissue commercial is wonderful, but most puppies are high maintenance, loving to romp, jump, and play. Until training has been initiated, they will jump on their owners, tug on a leash, and even bite and chew on paper-thin skin. Puppies are babies, and they have to learn. The question that must be addressed is, “Is my parent able to safely maintain a puppy? Or a kitten.”

• End-of-life provision: Many times a senior may pass away and leave a pet. It’s important that provision is made for the care and rehoming of that pet. Knowing there is an individual or family willing to take the pet as their own will be a wonderful and honoring memorial for your loved one and a sweet thank you to a pet who has been faithful to the end.

• Expense: Pets come with a price. Their health upkeep can be a stumbling block for a senior who lives on a fixed income. Make sure your senior is financially able to care for a pet’s medical costs, food, or grooming before you bring it into the picture.

• Pet match: Spend time on research. Match the pet to your parent. A large dog that requires a lot of play may not be right for your parent, a smaller dog may get under foot easier. Research is your friend. Look at the size, weight, breed, grooming, exercise, and even health issues that may come with a specific breed. All these things play into the safety and security of both the pet and the parent.

Pets provide a soothing and unconditional love for their owners. They can be service dogs, comfort pets, or just companions. Regardless of the label, animals can be the perfect companion for your loved one. The love of a pet can help restore health, confidence, and hope in an aging parent when they are the right fit. Consider all the factors before you bring a pet into their home and if it’s the right decision, your loved one’s life will be enriched and made fuller.