October is Adopt a Dog Month
There are many American seniors that feel lonely and would love to have some constant companionship. While family members, elderly care providers, and friends are important to elderly adults, there are few things that can replace the unconditional love of a dog. October is Adopt a Dog Month, and there’s no better time for elderly adults and family caregivers to get serious about opening their homes to a dog that needs to be rescued.
Elderly Care in Foley AL: Adopt a Dog Month
The right dog can be the perfect companion for an elderly adult.
Studies show that dog owners are overall happier and live longer than non-dog owners. Seniors with dogs have more motivation to get up and take care of their loving pet, and petting dogs has been shown to reduce stress and help with pain management. Taking care of a dog can even help seniors with physical and occupational therapy exercises. If they are not completely able to tend to the dog’s needs on their own, they have family caregivers and elder care providers to pitch in.
For most seniors, the benefits of having a dog far outweigh any disadvantages.
Initially, some seniors may have some objections to a dog. Among the most common are finding the right dog in the first place, expenses for food and health, getting the dog to the groomer and the veterinarian. The good news is that family caregivers and elderly care providers can alleviate many of these worries, paving the way for an elderly adult to find a canine companion.
Shelters will help match compatible dogs with elderly adults. They know what the personalities are for different dogs they house. Most senior dogs make excellent companions because they are not as active as puppies. They are housetrained and well-behaved. Many will allow the dog to live at the home for a trial period to make sure it is a good match between the elderly adult and the animal. If it doesn’t work out, the shelter takes the dog back.
Adopting a dog also does a lot of good for the community.
There are thousands of dogs across the country that are older, handicapped or otherwise abandoned that need good homes. They are often passed over by younger families looking for energetic animals or young puppies. The senior dogs make ideal companions as they are active enough to be playful but content to sit with their elderly owners and take naps.
Family caregivers also assume some responsibility when it comes to their aging relative taking on a dog. Because they are already caring for their elderly loved one who struggles to complete all the daily tasks needed to live independently, it’s expected that they will also need help with pet care. Family caregivers need to ensure the dog has proper vaccinations, food, water, and grooming. Family members, friends and elderly care providers who make up the aging adult’s support team can also pitch in and make the relationship work. When an elderly adult has a loving dog by their side, it makes their quality of life so much better.
If you or someone you know needs Elderly Care in Foley, AL, please contact the friendly caregivers at Hughes Home Care.
We provide quality and affordable care for your elderly loved ones in our community. Call Us Today 251-517-9901. Serving Mobile & Baldwin County.
He has three teenage children and are actively involved in their church and community – James coach’s youth football, basketball and baseball and serves at 3 Circle Church. He is a member of the Fairhope Youth Football Board and the Rock Creek POA Board.
It is his passion and commitment to providing quality and responsive service that has made their company the fastest growing home care agency in South Alabama.
He believes that being an independently owned and operated company gives him the flexibility to manage his business in a way that better serves their clients.
He understands that you have a choice of care providers and he will do his utmost to earn your trust.
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