Lily, my cat, came to live with me in 2009 and my dog, Goldi, in 2010. I adopted them as adults from the Humane Society. They both give me something to care for, a companion for walks, and a security alarm. Don’t tell the possible intruder, but Goldi’s bark is way worse than her bite, as she is a very gentle dog.
The following article describes some of the benefits of owning pets:
The Benefits of Elderly Owning Pets
Kentish Homecare, April 12, 2017
“Studies have shown that owning a pet may help you live a longer, healthier and happier life thanks to the complex ways that animals can affect human emotions. A study published in the Journal of American Geriatrics Society suggested that elderly people who live with pets tended to be healthier both physically and mentally than those who didn’t. Plus, the experimental residential home Eden Alternative has filled their facility with over 100 birds, cats, dogs, rabbits and chickens and has proven to have a 15% lower mortality rate than other traditional nursing homes.”
- Pets can provide companionship
- Allows owners to be more active
- They can reduce stress and depression
- Something to focus on
- Give a sense of security
More details about the benefits of owning pets