We all know that pets provide amazing companionship and comfort for people in the afternoon of life. They bring so much joy, love and value to their owners. However, there are some older pet owners who struggle financially and choose to feed their pets over themselves. Why? Because their pet is their reason for getting up in the morning; their reason for being; and it gives them purpose in life.
However, there often comes a time when these folks don’t have enough resources to care for their pets and therefore have to consider surrendering their beloved companions. They understand their pet needs more care than they can provide.
That is why it is important for all pet owners to create a plan for their animals as early as possible, before becoming ill or having to move to an assisted living facility. This “Plan B” will allow for action steps to take in the pet’s best interest in the event the senior owner can no longer care for it or if the owner should pass away. This also gives peace of mind to the owner, knowing someone will care for their beloved pet at a time when they cannot.
Things to consider in the plan include offering the pet up for adoption. Have the senior owner inquire of friends and family who know and love the pet and see if any of them would be willing and able to take care of the pet when the owner no longer can.
Encourage the pet owner to have a conversation with a veterinarian, many of whom should have access to numeous helpful resources and who can help re-home a pet when that time comes. No-kill shelters can also be a great option, as well as a non-profit rescue organization designed to help older adults find new homes for the animals.
If the current pet owner has a new owner in mind and is ready to make the transition, start with baby steps. Have the pet and the new owner engage in a few extended visits and/or care for the pet in their own home before fully assuming 100% responsibility for the pet. Smaller steps are easier on everyone involved, especially the pet! And discuss the possibility of having the senior owner continue to visit the pet even though the pet is living in a new home, maybe even on a monthly basis.
As for putting a pet down, that should be a last resort, as there are so many other options out there.
So, when exactly is it time to rehome a pet? Well, when the owner can no longer properly care for the pet or if either the pet or the owner is residing in a neglectful situation or experiencing a reduced quality of life. Just remember to focus on making the transition from one care giver to another as smooth as possible.
Source: agingcare.com
Written by Ann Butenas
An internationally-recognized author and writer, Ann began her professional writing career at age 12 and began speaking while in college. She has been published thousands of times over the past three decades in all media forms, was former editor and publisher of KC Metro Woman magazine, and has also hosted three talk radio shows in the Kansas City area.
