When looking for care there are many things to consider. One of the most sensitive issues being the family pet.
Cats and dogs naturally become an integral part of a person’s family. They help with loneliness and most people build strong bonds and relationships with their pets.
When the time has come to move into residential care, what are the rules regarding pets and what can you do?
Care homes that accept pets
You must first consider all options and understand the persons relationship with their pet. The simplest choice is to transfer the care of the animal to a friend or family member; however, this isn’t always an option. You may even consider putting off going into residential care and arranging a home carer if the thought of being away from your close companion is too distressing.
There is also the possibility of choosing a care home that accepts certain pets. This has become more common in recent years but there are still many things to consider:
- Only a small percentage of homes are ‘pet friendly’.
- Would your pet cope with the change in environment?
- Is the care home going to be a suitable place for your pet?
- Are you going to be able to look after your pet?
- Is your pet house trained, well-behaved and predictable?
- What if other residents complain about your pet? How would you feel and what would you do?
- Will your Vet visit your pet in the home?
- What would you do if you were no longer able to look after your pet?
You must remember, the most important thing is your health. If you can’t look after yourself, you probably won’t be able to look after your pet and ensure they are fed, loved and cared for.
Care options that allow you to keep your pet?
Home care is becoming an increasingly popular option that allows people and their pets to stay in the familiar surroundings of their own home.
Home care can be tailored to individual needs and requirements. The carer can complete any tasks you’re finding difficult, including help to feed and walk your beloved cat or dog.
All being said and done, the health benefits of caring for pets in your twilight years are well documented. Pets offer unconditional love; they give the owner a sense of reward and responsibility. They encourage the owner to exercise, provide stimulation and socialisation and a perhaps above all they give a sense of purpose and fun to life.