Dogs are good for our souls. This is something dog owners get to experience every day, and we should consider ourselves fortunate for it. However, many elderly individuals, especially those living alone, who could greatly benefit from the love and companionship of a pet, are often deprived of this joy. This is a plea for dogs in old age and in nursing homes.

I believe that seniors should be supported in their desire for a pet. Depending on their life situation, this is not always easy to implement. Many questions arise, which I would like to address below: “Who will take care of the four-legged friend if I get sick? Can I take the dog with me to the nursing home?” And yes, I understand that a dog may not be the suitable pet for everyone, and not everyone can take care of a pet in old age. For such cases, I have some suggestions, such as a power of attorney for the animal. Because I am firmly convinced that animals make us happy! In the end, what matters is one more happy senior, and that effort is worthwhile!

Dog in Old Age – Soul Comforter on Four Paws

A dog senses when we are feeling down. Every time I’m sad, I have a dog’s head on my knee with a reassuring “everything will be okay” look in no time. Dogs are social beings and naturally want their pack, in this case, me, to be well. It’s no wonder that it’s scientifically proven that our furry friends have a positive impact on our body and mind. For many people, their four-legged companion is their best friend and the most important connection. Especially for elderly individuals living alone, whose partners have passed away, and whose children live hundreds of kilometers away, their pets mean a lot to them. They are all they have. Allowing someone who has never had a pet to live with a four-legged friend to care for, cuddle with, talk to, and, yes, unconditionally love, significantly improves their quality of life.

Dog in Old Age – Less Alone with a Dog

People who adopt a dog in their old age can regain the feeling of being needed through their pet. Many describe it as a “second spring.” “Seniors who take care of an animal are more active, less likely to suffer from depression, sleep problems, and high blood pressure, and have more social contacts,” says psychologist Dr. Andrea Beetz. Especially dogs and cats seeking human contact and wanting to be petted, those demanding our attention, are particularly good for the soul.

In addition, pets bring structure to our daily lives; they need to be fed, petted, and taken for walks. Not only does one do something for their health by getting fresh air and exercise, but walking a dog on a leash can also lead to chance encounters and increased social interaction. Older individuals who tend to withdraw can, therefore, have more exchanges with others.

Give Older Animals a Chance:

I generally recommend that older dog owners consider adopting an older dog. This has advantages for both sides. On the one hand, a mature animal is often better suited to an older person’s temperament than a lively puppy. On the other hand, adopting an older dog from a shelter can provide a fulfilling twilight for the animal.

Dog in Old Age – Social Network is Important

Some seniors hesitate to take on the responsibility of a pet in their old age. They fear what will happen to the pet if they are no longer able to care for it. Here, it is important to help them create a network of people and support services that allow older pet owners to live happily and in a way that is appropriate for the dog for as long as possible. Perhaps neighbors or someone from the family or circle of acquaintances would be willing to take care of the four-legged friend in case of emergency or illness?

If the senior can no longer manage alone, and moving to a nursing home is the next step, fortunately, there are now senior care facilities that allow pets. Not all of these facilities permit dog ownership, and some only allow small pets, but it’s worth asking. The transition to an assisted living or nursing home can be incredibly difficult for many people. Residents who can bring their pets not only find the challenging period of adjustment easier but also experience an improvement in their well-being.

Power of Attorney and Emergency Card – Secured in Case of Emergency

Unfortunately, nowadays, when a pet owner suddenly falls ill or passes away, their pet often ends up in an animal shelter because arrangements for the pet’s care were not made. A power of attorney can provide a solution, clearly specifying what should happen to the dog if something happens to the owner. In this power of attorney, the dog owner authorizes a person or an animal welfare organization of their trust to take care of their pet if they can no longer do it themselves. Of course, this needs to be clarified with the respective person beforehand. The authorized person receives a copy of the power of attorney, and the original should be kept securely in a place known to the authorized person.

It Doesn’t Have to Be Your Own Dog

Perhaps taking care of a pet’s daily needs is too much for some seniors? That doesn’t mean they have to miss out on contact with animals. Animal shelters greatly appreciate regular dog walkers. Just inquire at the animal shelter near you.

And it doesn’t have to be a dog either. Especially if you have relatives living in an assisted living or nursing home, dogs are often not allowed. In this case, the choice should be a smaller, easier-to-care-for pet, such as a small bird or fish. Provided the owner is capable of regularly cleaning the cage or aquarium. An older cat that has only been kept indoors can also adapt well to life in a nursing home.

What Can You Do? Gift an Extra Bit of Joy to Life!

Do you have an older family member who would like to have a pet, or do you think a pet would do them good? Then support them in realizing this and offer your help.

Do you know an elderly person in a nursing home without a connection to animals and think that contact with dogs could benefit them? Then advocate for regular dog visits. Of course, you would need to check with the nursing home to see if they are open to the idea. But more and more nursing homes are expanding their range of services and offering visits from dogs. Animal-assisted therapy is becoming increasingly important in elderly care. Once you’ve clarified this, get in touch with animal shelters or dog training schools and ask if they would like to delight people in regular intervals.

Help us make the world a little more loving!