Before the COVID-19 pandemic, many of us already knew that pets added value to the lives of older adults or those who live alone. Yet, with weeks of quarantine already in our rear-view mirror, many more members of the public would likely agree that pets are incredibly important to the mental health and well-being of others. But what happens if you no longer can afford to feed your furry quarantine buddy? If you have been struck down financially by the pandemic, there may now be alternative options.
Good Boy, Good Life
Owning a pet, especially a dog, is considered by health experts to come with a wide variety of benefits. Most prominently, pets offer companionship and belonging to isolated individuals. Seniors have even reported that pets add routine, a sense of love, and reduce stress in their lives. Physically, any pet that requires regular exercise can also increase your own fitness capabilities. Over time, this can lead to a lower incidence of cardiovascular illness and other diseases.
One Mayo Clinic researcher, who published a study on the association of pet ownership and health, found that “In general, people who owned any pet were more likely to report more physical activity, better diet and blood sugar at [an] ideal level”. (1)
No Money For Pet Food?
There are several challenges to pet ownership, and one of the most common is the high cost of pet food, medications, and vet bills. (1) Living on a fixed income can leave little room for additional expenses, which can occur with a pet. Some owners try to remedy the issue of not being able to afford pet food by sharing their own meals with a fur baby. Others may dip into limited retirement savings to cover costs. This is a testament to the true love people feel for their pets, but not a sustainable plan long term. There should be no shame if you cannot feed your pet – it happens to many who deeply care for their pet! (2,3)
Getting Assistance
Finances are stretched for many Americans right now, but there is help. Especially as a senior, you may qualify for free pet food if you are already engaged in a Meals on Wheels program. Though not in every city yet, the program is striving to bring all housebound seniors enough food for themselves, their pet, and any medications their pet may require too. Working with other nonprofits and charitable organizations, Meals on Wheels has found that there is an option for free pet food in nearly every community.
If your local Meals on Wheels does not offer free dog food, seniors should then reach out to local shelters or an Agency on Aging office. These two groups often have resources and extensive community knowledge to help seniors. (3)
Another great option for the elderly, if just starting to consider getting a pet, is the Pets For The Elderly Foundation. (4) For individuals over the age of 60, the organization will assist you in connecting with a pet. Participating animal shelters are present in nearly every state! Once you have found your new four-legged loved one, the group will cover the cost of adoption fees, spay/neuter, and pre-adoption vet clinic visits. (1)
