Pros And Cons Of Senior Rescue Pets For Senior People

Near Mother's Day I read an article suggesting that a good gift for an elderly mother who was still in her own home would be a senior cat or dog from a rescue home. Some compelling reasons about why this would be a good idea were put forward. However, I think there are many reasons against this which need to be given careful consideration.

Firstly, I am not in favour of giving anyone a pet (regardless of the age of the pet or the recipient) without checking with them first they wantand can are for that pet. The person also needs time to think of what pet ownership means and all the responsibilities. Yes, they might want the pet but are they really in a position to take full responsibility for it? If you want to give a friend's child a pet you need to talk it through with the parents first.

Reasons for an elderly person to have a cat or dog
Firstly, I will ignore the 'senior pet' part of the equation and consider benefits of owning a dog or cat. There are good reasons in favour, including -


Benefits of a senior pet
Senior animals in rescue shelters can be hard to find homes for. Reasons for considering a senior rescue pet for a senior person include -

Dogs and cats are considered senior from 7 years onward. Some are still rather active at this age and in excellent health for a few years on. However, there will come a time when the years catch up with them.

Disadvantages of a senior pet
At some stage a senior pet will start to slow down and show the signs of age. They will need extra care and the cost of vet bills and medication will increase. These factors can be a problem to senior people -


A survey was conducted of 600 pet owners. It was found, not surprisingly, having a pet with chronic or terminal illness increased the owner's stress and levels of depression and anxiety. It also lowered their general quality of life.

Each situation will be different. One doesn't know whether the pet will indeed have many health issues with increasing age or not. Some seniors have a network of able bodied friends, neighbours and family who are willing to help when needed. I read about an organisation which encourages seniors to adopt senior pets and provides support. A volunteer will visit to walk the dog and provide other care if necessary. This sounds like a great scheme.

An alternative to a senior person owning a pet is for them to volunteer somewhere that cares for cats and dogs. This way they can benefit from the company of pets without the responsibility.



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