How to Bond with and Keep your New Pet Safe
by Jessica Brody
info@ourbestfriends.pet
Dogs are wonderful additions to any family, but can provide priceless companionship and a sense of purpose to older adults. Dogs require training and walks, too, which encourages seniors to be more active, both mentally and physically. Adopting a dog requires some careful planning for anyone, but for seniors, there are some additional concerns to address. With a little work, both you and your dog will have a safe environment to flourish and bond.
The benefits of dog ownership for seniors
Some seniors can be faced with isolation as their children age and become occupied with their families; in fact, there are all kinds of reasons they may not be able to socialize with friends as much as they once did. When seniors retire, they can find their days empty, which can lead to loneliness. Lack of exercise, health problems and even some forms of dementia can follow from excessive idleness. Pet ownership can fill days with a revived sense of purpose. The bond between owner and dog is precious and benefits both equally.
A dog requires care, training, walking and other forms of attention. Dogs encourage seniors to live more healthy and active lifestyles, and provide a source of social interaction through walking to dog parks and other activities. For seniors who are looking to age in place rather than move to an assisted living or nursing home, dog ownership has a role in helping people remain in their homes for longer periods of time. Finally, dogs have been shown to improve mood and even encourage more regular eating habits with seniors.
Pet care expenses
Many seniors live on fixed incomes, and with daily living expenses continuing to rise, some older adults may be worried about adding the expenses of pet ownership to their budgets. While the cost of pet ownership, especially unknown future costs, should be carefully considered before adopting a pet, there are resources for assisting seniors with their pet care needs. These include local, regional and national nonprofit organizations that seek to ensure that pets are healthy.
In addition, there are several ways to lessen the cost of dog ownership. While veterinary care can be expensive, many offices are sensitive to expenses and compassionate about their care for animals. If you discuss your budgetary concerns with your vet, they are usually able to work out payment arrangements for care, or include your animal in their pro bono veterinary care.
The benefits of adoption
Humane societies all over the country have wonderful dogs that need good homes. Reach out to your local organization and ask for their help in matching your living arrangements with the right dog. These organizations want to ensure a good match, and will help you in finding an appropriate breed and give advice about levels of exercise that may be necessary. The humane society also will be a source of guidance throughout your ownership, providing access to low-cost vaccinations and other services.
Ensuring your dog has enough exercise
Once you have adopted your dog, you can improve your bond with your new friend by providing ample exercise time. Walks are helpful and should be a daily routine when weather permits. If you have a backyard, consider having a fence installed to keep your dog safe and provide extra opportunities for recreation. Electric fences are particularly budget friendly, and can cost as little as $450. Just remember that a fence does not offer 100 percent protection for your dog, so do not let it replace walking and supervision.
Dogs can provide years of joy for older adults. Many senior lives are revitalized through the mutual benefits exchanged between a dog and its owner. Careful planning can ensure that the dog is cared for and safe, and that the owner is able to provide the needed care.
photo: By Amy Nykolayko on Nov 10, 2015
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