Why Pets Are Good For Seniors
Why Pets Are Good for Seniors
There are many benefits for seniors who own pets. A pet can keep you company and give you affection. Also, owning a pet can make you happier and keep you healthy both mentally and physically.
Benefits of Pets for Seniors
There are so many different reasons why owning a pet as a senior is good for you. Some of those benefits are listed below:
- Companionship: When you are aging in place, it can become lonely if you live by yourself. Dogs and cats can have their own personalities and are constant companions. Plus, some pets enjoy traveling as much as their owners do.
- Establishing a routine: When you own a pet, you establish a routine. When your pet is fed, walked, brushed, or just being petted, they learn to live by a routine, and so you do too.
- Exercise: If you own a dog, your pet needs to be walked. This gets you out of the house, and you get exercise as well. If you own a cat, playing with your cat can have you moving around too. Owning a pet is a way to get exercise for yourself that is enjoyable.
- Making new friends: Who doesn’t like to talk about their dog? When you walk your dog, people may stop and talk to you. Or, if you take your dog to a dog park, your pet may not be the only one making new friends.
- Protection: Even if your dog is small, your pet can alert you if someone is in the house that shouldn't be there. Sometimes, a smaller dog is even noisier than a larger dog. Don't disregard cats either. They can let you know when something isn't right by hissing and puffing out their tail.
- Taking care of your pet: When you take care of a pet, it can be deeply satisfying. You are in charge of another life and responsible for your pet's happiness. It can give you something to get up for in the morning and give you a more cheerful outlook throughout your day.
Should You Get a Pet?
Choosing to own a pet is a big decision. There are some things to consider before you consider owning a pet. Bringing a pet into your home will require you to adapt your schedule and your life. What about physical disabilities? If you're physically disabled, perhaps a cat, a bird, or fish would be a better choice for you than a dog.
Consider the age of the pet you’re thinking about adopting. You may not be up to the challenges of a puppy or a kitten because they can be a handful. But a senior dog or cat who is more settled may be a better choice.
Too, be aware of the temperament of the pet you're deciding on. The type of breed of a dog or cat can tell you what the expected temperament may be like. But getting to know the individual pet is an important step before adopting or buying.
Be sure that whatever pet you choose is healthy. Have the pet thoroughly checked out by a veterinarian, so there aren't any unexpected health issues. An unexpected expensive vet bill can set you back. Speaking of finances, be sure you can afford to keep a pet. There is the cost of food, vet care, and other miscellaneous bills that can pop up.
If you have a pet and have difficulty taking care of the pet, such as walking or cleaning the litterbox, an in-home caregiver can help. Not only can an in-home caregiver help you with chores and personal care, but they can help with pet care as well. We here at Right at Home will not only give you the best care, but we will care for your pet too. Call us today.
