Pets and Loving Seniors (PALS)

Senior citizens in our community are often isolated. Nursing homes and elderly housing often serve to remove seniors from the mainstream of the community, which results in an “out of sight, out of mind” response from the community at large. The elderly often suffer from depression and isolation, and their physical health is affected by the situation. Frustration, confusion, grief and loss of self-esteem are daily occurrences in the lives of institutionalized or isolated elders. Distance and ever busier schedules often prevent younger family members from staying as connected as they would like.

Pets provide many links in the chain of wellness for the elderly. Companionship and unconditional love are the linchpins, giving the older person a focus and someone to share their days. Studies have proven that people who live with pets have lower rates of heart attack and heart disease. Seniors who have pets or who interact with companion animals on a regular basis tend to be more connected with reality, and suffer less from depression and dementia. Pets also give seniors a way to stay connected with the community by interacting with others about the animal.

 

PAWS of Bainbridge Island and North Kitsap honors the bond between seniors and pets by providing a range of services.

 

If you are now a pet owner… We know that keeping your pet as long as possible is important to you, yet sometimes it may be difficult to take care of your pet or pay for your pet’s expenses. To ensure the well-being of your pet, PAWS can help you with costs for vet care, grooming, food and other care needs. PAWS may be able to provide volunteers to help with litter box cleaning, dog walking and transporting pets to vet or grooming appointments.   You can pick up an assistance application at your local senior center.
	If you would like to be a pet owner… PAWS is looking for people over 65 who live independently and would like the companionship of a pet but whose finances won’t stretch to pet ownership.   A healthy, older cat would join your home as a permanent foster. PAWS would retain ownership and pay for food, litter and vet visits.   This arrangement is a “win-win” for cats not likely to be adopted due to their age and for seniors who want to enjoy the companionship of a pet.   Contact Stephanie for more information
If you, or someone you love lives in a nursing home, rehab center or senior living facility...   Ask the facility director or activity coordinator about visits from Therapy dogs, trained and certified dog and handler teams provide visitations for socialization, companionship.   Learn more on our Therapy Dog page

"I want to thank you so much for the help from PAWS in paying some of our vet bill. We were so shocked when the injury to our doggie, Snoodles, turned out to be so major with the loss of her eye. Not only was the severity upsetting, we just didn't know how we were going to pay the vet bill from Social Security. We are stretched to the limit helping to raise our 2 grandchildren who spend a lot of time with us and their single dad. Snoodles is doing great although she hates the "halo" collar and does not like being cooped up in the house, she would much rather be out in the yard with the grandkids. Thank you again. We so appreciate all your help!"

 

L.M.