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This is a great article on Senior Pet Adoption. An excerpt of the article is below along with the link. Consider using www.petfinder.com. It is a search site with pets that need homes all over the country. I hear it said that if everyone who apopted an animal, adopted from an animal shelter, we would no need animal euthanasia.
There’s no question that pet adoption can be good for some seniors. The benefits are well-documented:
- Lower blood pressure
- Reduced cardiovascular disease
- Reduced feelings of stress
- Lower cholesterol levels
- improved overall health means fewer doctor appointments
- Increased sense of responsibility and alertness
- Reduced sense of loneliness
- Increased activity during the day
- Increased fun!
Sounds great, doesn’t it? But before you rush out and buy that dog, cat, or ferret, make sure you are making the right pet adoption decision.
Things to Consider About Pet Adoption for Seniors
- Don’t surprise anyone with pet adoption. Ever. No matter how wonderful the animal is, pet ownership is a big responsibility. The American Humane Society encourages people not to purchase pets as a surprise, so discuss pet adoption and pet ownership with the senior before you acquire the animal.
- Let the person choose their own pet. You may love Beagles, but your grandmother might want a quieter dog. And while your grandfather says he would love to have a cat, perhaps grooming a long-haired cat isn't what he had in mind.
