The Guelph Humane Society is offering a new pet care service for older adults requiring hospitalization.
The Senior Support program offers no-cost boarding services for older adults in Guelph and Wellington County who can't afford it themselves.
The funding comves via a $55,000 grant from PetSmart Charities of Canada.
“There has been so much focus in recent years on the importance of the human-animal bond particularly for older adults who are more likely to experience loneliness or social isolation,” says Katherine Leonard, community programs and outreach coordinator at the Guelph Humane Society.
“Unfortunately, when an older adult is hospitalized or requires medical care, if there are no friends or family able to assist and there are financial challenges, there are limited options available. We never want to think of someone in the community delaying necessary medical care because they do not have somewhere for their pets to go, which is how Senior Support came to be.”
The program is not just limited to cats and dogs. Although cats and dogs will likely account for most of the needs for care, no-cost boarding services can be provided for any pets for up to eight weeks, with boarding typically offered in a foster home as opposed to the shelter setting.
Those who need help with their pets are encouraged to reach out to GHS at 519-824-3091 to discuss how help can be provided.
