Program Helps Seniors Meet Needs of Their Pets
For senior citizens, pets provide security, companionship and a reason to get up in the morning, according to the national nonprofit group Volunteers of America.
So the organization’s Long Beach chapter is expanding its Companion Pet Program into Huntington Beach, thanks to $30,000 in grants from a pet-food company and a foundation. The program helps coordinate and pay for seniors’ pet-care needs, including feeding, grooming and trips to the veterinarian.
The program has been in operation in Long Beach for two years, said Donna Skinner, senior-services director for Volunteers of America.
She said volunteers delivering meals to seniors found that many of them were sharing with their pets. “That’s not good for the pet and not good for the senior,” she said.
Studies have shown the therapeutic effects of pet ownership, Skinner said, and with many seniors, “the pet was the only companion they had.”
Low-income seniors over 60 in Huntington Beach, Long Beach or Lakewood may call Volunteers of America for assistance and information about the Companion Pet Program.
In addition, the group is looking for volunteers to make home visits to seniors, to deliver pet food and pet care information. Each volunteer must have a car with insurance.
Information: (562) 599-6652.
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