Pets and the Elderly

Question: Can you please help settle a family debate? My elderly parents had to have their dog put to sleep last year. Now they want to get a new puppy, which I think is a terrible idea. They are both getting quite frail at this point. How are they going to manage training and taking care of a young dog?

Answer: Although you are smart to consider the challenges of adding a new pet into your parent’s lives, you may be overlooking many of the positive aspects. Research regarding pet owners living in senior housing has found those elders with pets often feel secure, exercise on a regular basis, have a positive attitude, and lead a well-rounded life. Pets are good for your heart, literally and figuratively.

People who have spent most of their lives with at least one pet around the house could list numerous reasons why their life was better because of the bond they shared with their feline or canine friend. Although a dog is obviously an animal, many would say a pet is an extension of the family. Pets have filled a void in many people’s lives. Individuals who have recently lost a spouse or those who have never married don’t feel quite so alone when they have a pet that lavishes them with unconditional love and loyalty.

Instead of trying to work against your parents, think about how you could make this work for them. If you are concerned they won’t be able to train the new puppy on their own, locate a dog training class that could help them in this process. Find a neighborhood child who might be willing to help walk the dog if your parents aren’t feeling well or if the weather is bad. Either you or another family member could volunteer to take the dog to the veterinarian whenever necessary. As much as possible, find ways to share the responsibility of the pet to allow your parents to reap the joy and pleasure the dog could bring to them.

Before your parents welcome a puppy into their home, encourage them to do some research about which breed would be best for them. There are breeds better suited to a less active lifestyle, breeds that don’t shed much, and breeds that don’t require frequent grooming. Another thought is that instead of a puppy, an older, trained dog might be worth considering. Older dogs typically have less energy than puppies and may provide the same amount of joy.