Giving A Pet To An Older Person
Would A New Pup Be Good For Dad?
Gretchen Heuring | ElderThink | 08.25.10
Deciding to give a pet to an older person needs some careful thought. It's true that the right animal can be a great comfort,
a source of exercise, and a defense against loneliness.
It's important to think this decision through. Are there allergies? Is your older person able to manage pet hair on everything? If the senior wants to travel or becomes ill are there resources for caring for the pet? There's a lot to consider.
Puppies are adorable but an Elder might do better with an older dog. Advice posted by the Senior Dogs Project is as follows:
"Older dogs, especially those who have once known it, appreciate love and attention and quickly learn what's expected of them to gain and keep that love and attention. Older dogs know how to let you finish the newspaper, sitting calmly next to you, while your workday stress flows away and your blood pressure lowers. They are also instant companions, ready for hiking, riding in the car, walking on leash, fetching, etc."
One more thing to take into account. For some seniors, change is really hard. Your pet gift may bring about a negative response. Firmly encourage a trial period. That should do the trick.
