Pets And Seniors: Is Pet Ownership Right For You?
As I write this, my own trusty golden retriever is asking for pets and “demanding “some attention. She must know that today I am writing about pets! Having a pet has many wonderful benefits:
- They provide us with companionship and love
- They offer us a sense of protection as a built-in security system
- They provide a sense of consistency and routine in our daily life
- They help keep us active by engaging in daily walks
- They can help add some socialization to your day
- Plus lots more…..
I thought that it might be a great idea to take a look at some benefits of pets as it pertains to healthy aging. Keep reading for some resources on the benefits of animals and pets and seniors, some resources on how to pick the best dog for seniors, plus some ways to enjoy the benefits of animals without pet ownership.
Beyond the mental and physical aspects of keeping us company while also keeping us active, there have been studies on the heart health benefits, effects on depression, and stress management as it pertains to pets and animals. There has been quite a bit of research on the benefits of pets- whether that be cats, dogs, reptiles, or even bunnies. If you are interested in looking at some of the research on animals and seniors or would like a deeper read, take a look here:
Guided By Love: Supported By Science
Having a pet certainly does change up our routine and it can take a bit to get used to. We got our dog as a puppy and I have vowed never to get another puppy! But, all that hard work and time spent on training has resulted in a very loving and loyal part of our family who loves nothing more than to spend time with us!
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Things To Consider When Choosing A Pet
There are of course many things to consider when looking into pet ownership. Cats will have a bit less daily attention versus a dog. Fish can actually provide enjoyment, however taking care of the tank is something to consider here. Certain reptiles are low maintenance. I am not an animal expert, but I can offer some things to think about when it comes to having a dog- and some of those will translate to other types of pets as well.
If you are looking to increase your activity level with walking- having a dog will certainly help you do that. I most definitely get my recommended dose of activity over the course of a week in terms of walking. But, there are many things to consider when choosing a dog or dog breed. You need to consider your means and abilities when choosing a pup to help keep both you and the dog healthy and happy. Here are some things to consider:
- How much activity does this dog breed require?
- Does the dog do well being home alone for extended periods of time?
- The size of the dog- can you safely pick them up if needed (for example to get them in a car)?
- How much energy do they have during the day? There may be safety issues if you have balance issues. Are they running around the house?
- Be aware that there may be issues with managing an older dogs needs
- Consider the weather where you live- can you manage taking the dog out in rain/snow?
With some of those things in mind, here are some resource on the best dogs for seniors:
17 Best Dog Breeds For Older Adults: The Spruce Pets
Which Pets Make The Best Companions For Seniors?
Here is a resource that you may also be interested in, it helps senior pet owners who are struggling to care for their pets: Senior Paw Project
So there are just some things to think about if you are looking into getting a dog. This may also give you some things to think about if you are considering any other type of pet as well. Of course, you can get the benefits of animals without actually having a pet. Keep reading for some ways and some resources that you may be interested in.
Animals, Pets And Seniors: 6 Ways To Get The Benefits Without Ownership
1. Visit a dog park
Yes, dog parks are for taking your dog to play and socialize. But if you love dogs and want to hang out and watch them play and maybe pet a few dogs – there is nothing that says you have to bring a dog! I know, because I have done it- and I even have a dog. For all the wonderful attributes of my dog-she’s just not that into playing with other dogs. I think it is because she thinks she’s a person and she would much rather be hanging out with people. But, visiting a dog park is relaxing and yes, people do go without dogs.
2. Volunteer at an animal shelter
If you are physically up for the task but cannot manage the responsibility for dog or cat ownership, volunteering can be a wonderful way to get that animal interaction. Check with your local animal shelters or there are many organizations and dog rescues- and some are breed specific. There may also be other types of animals there as well!
3. Visit a cat cafe
You may not have heard of these, but they are becoming more popular. We have one near us and visit it a couple times a year. You get to sit and interact with the cats- who are all up for adoption. Adopting a cat is not necessary. The cats get the benefits of the interaction and socialization while they are waiting to be adopted and you get the benefits of the animal interaction. Check this out to get an idea of what I am talking about, or take a look in your local area:
4. Get out and walk or explore in your neighborhood or local area
This can be a simple and easy way to interact with your neighbors and their dogs. You will get to know them (both people and dogs), and make some furry friends for life. You can also look in your local area for animal related events such as pet adoption events to get some wonderful pet-and human- interaction.
5. Be a foster
It is a short term commitment and you are doing something wonderful. It can also allow you to get a bit of a taste for how it may go for you if you decide that pet ownership is right for you. Take a look at some information here. There are of course many things to consider with this type of commitment, so make sure that you do your proper research.
6. Yoga
Of course I could not end this without mentioning goat yoga. Yes practicing yoga while surrounded by baby goats- or puppies is most certainly a real thing. If you are interested in learning more about that, search your local area for places that may offer it. A lot of local farms have goat yoga. It is most definitely on my list of things to do and I will most certainly write about it once I do it!
And finally, if you have a dog and are interested in volunteer options- take a look at these organizations to see it their are any ideas that may appeal to you:
Pet Partners: Ways To Volunteer
So there are some resources and some things to think about when it comes to pets and seniors, pet ownership, as well as ways animals and seniors can interact. Let me know what you think or if you have any more ideas or thoughts! I know there are so many wonderful organizations out there- let me know and I will add them here.
Want More?
If you are interested in more ways to help keep active, you may be interested in:
Also, if finding proper footwear is keeping you from being active- you may be interested in checking out ICS Shoes. They specialize in shoes for comfort, diabetic, extra wide, and orthopedic. Here is an example of an extra wide size shoe: Xelero Genesis X67845
This product is great for playing fetch and makes it easy to throw and pick up the ball: Chuckit! Ball Launcher
Visit The Peaceful Chair Etsy Shop for health and wellness related printable pages
Take a look at Chair Yoga for Healing if you are interested in ways chair yoga can help with stress
You may be interested in my Daily To Do List Notebook
You may enjoy Tips For Reducing Stress With Rest.
Or, try out the 21 Day Mindfulness Challenge
Visit The Peaceful Chair Etsy Shop for health and wellness related printables and more
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Namaste!
Disclaimer: The Peaceful Chair and thepeacefulchair.com strongly recommends that you consult with your physician before starting this or any exercise program.The information provided on this website is for informational purposes only and is not to be used in place of medical advice or information from your healthcare provider. Neither The Peaceful Chair, the peacefulchair.com, nor any of its contributors shall be held liable for any improper or incorrect use of the information described and/or contained herein and assumes no responsibility for anyone’s use of the information contained in any links, videos, or any content on this website.
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