Friedman Seniors’ Animal Program
In Loving Memory
of Barbara and Spencer Friedman
Because HOPE believes that pets are good for most seniors (most people, in fact), and because we wanted to honor generous HOPE supporters Barbara & Spencer Friedman, we have developed a focused seniors program.
Among the documented reasons pets are good for seniors include:
• Less stress and lower blood pressure – Stroking a pet is calming and having a pet snuggle can help you feel better and put you in a better mood. One study concluded that people who own pets are more likely to have lower blood pressure than those who do not have pets.
• Less loneliness and depression – Pet companionship can help you ward off depression and feel connected to another life by providing affection, company, entertainment and a sense of purpose. Having a pet to come home to can help people who are single or widowed cope with changes in their lives. Caring for another creature can help take your mind off your worries.
• Better health – Seniors take good care of their pets – and better care of themselves – when they own a pet. Studies show that owning a pet increases immunity in humans, as well as a sense of happiness and well-being, and may even result in fewer trips to the doctor. Caring for and feeding a pet calls for routines and activities seniors might not otherwise have, providing important mental stimulation.
• Increased activity – Seniors with pets are generally more active than those without pets. Dogs generally require walking. Cats need us to care for them by scooping their boxes and giving them fresh water – cats get us up and moving whether we want to or not!
The program includes:
Discounted adoption fee for senior citizens (age 65+) adopting a senior pet (cat or dog 6 years or older)
Additional feral cat spay/neuter assistance for colonies at homes of senior citizens
To learn more about the program and adoptable senior pets, please contact HOPE at hope@homelesspets.net