Loneliness is a struggle that most elderly around the world face. To battle the fear of being alone, most adopt pets to keep them company as it can offer companionship and provide them with a sense of togetherness. Some even bring and take care of a pet in senior living communities. Although there are many pros to owning pets, there are many considerations that you must keep in mind while owning a pet. Here is a guide on all you need to know for seniors who want to keep pets.
How Do Pets Help
On top of providing your loved ones with companionship, pets also help to maintain a purpose in life. Some people feel satisfied knowing that they are entrusted with tasks such as walking their dog or clearing up their cat’s mess. However, what most people do not know is the numerous health benefits that come with rearing a pet. These benefits include:
- Boosting immunity
- Lowering of blood pressure
- Lowering stress levels
- Improving physical activity
- Overcoming mental health issues such as depression and anxiety
- Fighting allergens
How Should You Select A Pet that is Right for You
When selecting a pet, one thing pet owners should note is if they can care enough for it. Different pets have different needs as some pets like puppies require more attention. Other pets however such as lizards or different insects do not require as much attention. To guide you on how to properly decide on a pet that is best for you, here are some questions you could ask yourself:
- How old is the pet?
- Will I benefit more from a therapy pet?
- Does the pet have temperament issues that I have to consider?
- Do I have financial concerns?
How Should You Take Care of Pets
To ensure that you and your pet are healthy and happy, here are some ways to help you take care of your pet better:
- Use water dispensers and automatic feeders: These gadgets are of great help as they help with tasks such as feeding your pets. They reduce the number of times you must refill dishes and come in different sizes for all sorts of pets.
- Reach out for help: Sometimes, rearing a pet can get too overwhelming on top of the additional responsibilities that you have. If you need help walking your dog or bringing it to the vet, try asking your neighbor or a family member to help.
- Hire a vet that does house calls: Some veterinarians do house calls and are on stand-by for whoever needs assistance. If your pet is ill, it would be a lot easier for a vet to come by your place to check it out.
Relax with Your Pet at Mariposa
Are you thinking about moving into a senior living home but are hesitant to leave your beloved pet behind? You can put your fears to rest when you choose Mariposa as your retirement community! We have a pet-friendly community as we believe that pets can have a good impact on the lives of our residents! From exclusive assisted living programs to memory care programs, we promise you that you and your pets will be in good hands with us. For more information, contact us today!