The unconditional love of a pet can add joy, fun and a sense of comfort to anyone of any age. Older adults sometimes have fewer opportunities to socialize and get out of the house, and the companionship of a pet can fill that void in the most delightful ways.
In fact, research shows that owning a dog, cat or other pet reduces stress and depression, lowers blood pressure, and can help one cope with loss and grief. The routine of caring for a pet lends structure and purpose to life and enables the owners to incorporate regular exercise into their daily routine. It’s a win-win.
“I would not have made it through the year of [COVID-19] lockdown without my beloved cat, Bella,” expresses Davida Petrie, 91, of Aliquippa. “Bella, who is now 13, literally saved my life.”
Helping seniors increase their quality of life through the friendship of a pet is the purpose behind Senior 2 Senior, a new program offered by the Beaver County Humane Society (BCHS). The program is designed to provide rescued senior animals, ages seven and older, with wonderful, loving homes with adults ages 65 and older.
“In today’s world, we know that there are many older adults who live very active, healthy lives and do not need any assistance with adopting a pet, accessing veterinary care, or affording all the things that go along with having a pet,” says Mary Lou Harju, BCHS’ Development and Marketing Manager. “However, we have identified that some older adults may not be able to drive, may not have access to a computer, and may be on a limited income, all of which create barriers to pet ownership or care.”
For this reason, Senior 2 Senior offers the free adoption of a dog or cat; initial vet and dental care; a senior welcome kit which includes a collar, leash, toys, bowls, and a starter supply of food; and a phone number that new adopters can call with questions about getting their pet settled into the home.
While some seniors may prefer adopting a puppy or kitten, older pets are usually more suitable, as they are gentler, calmer, and have an established demeanor. Mature pets are also more likely to be house-trained and understand basic commands.
“A house without an animal is a house. A house with an animal is a home,” says Davida, who also volunteers at the Beaver County Humane Society roughly twice every week.
For those who love animals but cannot adopt a pet for whatever reason (and even for those who have pets), there are plenty of other ways to get a dog or cat fix by lending a hand at BCHS. “Volunteers are an integral part of our operations and help to ensure our continued success,” Mary Lou comments. “Since we lost a lot of our volunteers during the pandemic lockdown, we now have a number of positions that are open for anyone who would enjoy supporting our mission.” Volunteer opportunities include:
• dog walking.
• fostering kittens until they reach adoptable age.
• caretaking cats, including socializing, grooming, and cleaning their carriers
• fostering animals in your home until they find their forever homes.
• clerical duties like data entry, assembling medical folders, and general office help.
• front desk assistance with answering phones and scheduling clients.
• drivers to do pickup and drop-offs at various locations.
• groundskeeping.
• sorting donated items in the Thrift Store.
• participating in fundraising activities and special events like the annual Tails on the Trails Pet Walk, held at Bradys Run Park in September.
If you are interested in participating in the Senior 2 Senior program, call (724) 775-5801 and press 3. To inquire about volunteering, email volunteer@beavercountyhumanesociety.org. To learn more about BCHS, visit beavercountyhumanesociety.org.