It isn’t pleasant to think about, but owners must plan for the unexpected for their pets, too. Is there a backup plan in place for the pet?.Be sure to carefully consider a senior’s current budget before taking home any animal. A low-maintenance animal like a fish is less expensive, coming in at about $235, according to the American Society for the Prevention of Cruelty to Animals. A small puppy can rack up more than $810 for food, medical care, toys and grooming just in its first year. Pets are a significant long-term financial commitment. “Two animals may bond with each other rather than with their owner,” Dr. While multiple pets can keep each other company, that may not be a good idea for an older person. Unhealthy pets can be difficult for seniors to handle both emotionally and financially. Katharine Hillestad, a veterinarian based in Rhinelander, Wisconsin. “You don’t want to compromise an older person’s immune system since some pets carry diseases,” says Dr.
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It’s important that any pet be examined by a professional prior to adoption. While there are some general truths about specific breeds, every animal is unique. “Many older people might think they’d do better with a Jack Russell Terrier because it’s a small breed, but they are very, very, very high energy and require a great deal of effort and commitment,” says Susan Daffron, author of Happy Hound: Develop a Great Relationship with Your Adopted Dog or Puppy. It is very important to research different breeds’ characteristics and interact with prospective adoptees to get a feel for their energy levels and personality.
However, if they are open to a new and rewarding commitment, then first-timers can still make great owners. Adopting an animal usually affects a person’s whole daily routine.Īmy Sherman, licensed therapist and author of Distress-Free Aging: A Boomer’s Guide to Creating a Fulfilled and Purposeful Life, thinks it’s best if the elderly person is an experienced owner. “If change isn’t your loved one’s cup of tea, then they may not be a good candidate,” say the Andersons. 10 Questions to Ask When Considering a Pet for a Senior Donnenfeld encourages seniors and caregivers to have a thorough conversation about pet ownership before welcoming a pet into the family. While the advantages of pet ownership are undeniable, there are some drawbacks and consequences to be aware of before going out to adopt a furry friend for an aging loved one. Tony Kremer, who operates Help Save Pets, a nonprofit rescue organization, with his wife Meg. Retired adopters tend to have lots of time to devote to a previously unwanted pet, forming a lasting bond,” says Chicago veterinarian Dr. “These lucky animals go from the pound to paradise. “Having a pet helps the senior focus on something other than their physical problems and negative preoccupations about loss or aging.”Īnimals benefit from adoption, too, particularly when seniors adopt older pets. “I’ve seen those with memory loss interact with an animal and regain access to memories from long ago,” she explains. Donnenfeld, who brings her own golden retriever mix, Sandee, to her New York City office, has even witnessed animals’ ability to prompt better memory recall in their elderly owners.
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