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Love Your Pet Day

By January 28, 2025January 30th, 2025eNewsletter, February 2025 Newsletter

February 20 is Love Your Pet Day, an occasion dedicated to recognizing the bond between humans and animals. For the elderly and homebound, pets are more than just companions; they are a source of emotional support, stability, and joy. At LifeCare Alliance, we make every effort to ensure those in need can experience the life-changing benefits of pet ownership.

For elderly and homebound individuals who are struggling financially, caring for a pet can become an overwhelming challenge. In response to this need, LifeCare Alliance offers essential pet-related services for seniors, providing pet food and financial assistance for veterinary bills to over 270 clients and more than 300 pets a year.

“Many of our clients would face a difficult decision if they couldn’t provide for their pets,” says Claire Eastman, Chief Corporate & Community Engagement Officer. “Our goal is to ensure that seniors don’t have to choose between their own well-being and the well-being of their beloved animals. Pets play a critical role in the lives of our clients, and we are proud to support our clients and their pets.”

LifeCare Alliance’s pet care program is just one of many initiatives that reflect the growing recognition of the importance of pets in the lives of vulnerable populations. By alleviating the financial burden of pet care, LifeCare Alliance ensures that seniors can maintain their relationships with their pets while receiving the support they need to thrive.

The therapeutic bond between humans and pets is not just anecdotal; it is supported by science. Researchers have long recognized the positive impact animals have on human health, especially in fostering emotional and psychological stability. A study published in the Journal of Aging and Health found that seniors who owned pets were less likely to suffer from depression and were more likely to report higher levels of happiness and satisfaction with their lives.

Dr. Erika Friedmann, a professor of nursing at the University of Maryland, has conducted extensive research into the role of pets in the lives of the elderly. She asserts, “Pets provide a source of constant companionship, and their non-judgmental nature helps mitigate feelings of depression or anxiety. For elderly individuals, this relationship can become a life raft in a sea of emotional challenges.” Research by Dr. Friedmann and others has found that simply having a pet nearby can help lower feelings of stress and anxiety in elderly individuals, contributing to a sense of emotional stability.

Whether it’s a dog, a cat, or even a bird or rabbit, pets have a remarkable way of making life brighter, especially for those who may feel isolated or disconnected. On Love Your Pet Day and throughout the year, support those in need and their pets by volunteering to deliver pet food with LifeCare Alliance. We couldn’t provide the support we offer without our amazing volunteers. And, as always, Being There Matters™.

Story by Curt Vance

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