The Humane Society of Scott County has a special program called Golden Companions funded in part by Nestle Purina.
When living on a fixed income, many seniors can not afford the initial cost of owning a pet. The Humane Society makes it affordable for seniors to adopt a companion pet.
Golden Companions is for people 60 years and older in Scott and Rock Island Counties. They can adopt a cat or dog one year or older at no initial cost. A questionnaire and contract must be completed which will help us ensure the right animal is selected to meet the particular person(s) lifestyle.
The program covers the cost of adoption fees, and up to $100 of the first veterinary visit to apply to rabies vaccination, spay/neutering, fecal float, heart worm test for dogs and a feline leukemia for cat up when the pet is taken to local participating Vets. A collar and leash for dogs will also be provided. It is up to the adopter to continue with yearly examinations and vaccinations.
The wonderful fact is most "older" animals (a year old or older) are already housebroken, or more easily trained, don't chew, are calmer and ready for the attention that a senior will give it. Animals can provide responsibility, exercise, companionship and unconditional love.
Bonding with Pets for Health
If you're a pet owner, you won't find it surprising that pets can instill a sense of well-being in people. Studies have shown that pet owners, particularly the elderly, have lower blood pressure, are less likely to be depressed and have higher self-esteem than people who don't have pets. Among the more tangible rewards: A 1999 study in New York, Missouri and Texas found that medication costs dropped in nursing homes that allowed pets. In another study, 70 percent of the families surveyed reported an increase in happiness and fun as a result of acquiring a pet. Studies have shown that companion animals can help improve your health by reducing stress, lowering blood pressure and even speeding recovery time in illness. In 2000, the American Heart Association's study of stockbrokers found that those who had the companionship of a dog or cat experienced a calming of the "stress response" that can contribute to high blood pressure. After learning the results of the study, many of the pet-less stockbrokers decided to invest in a pet of their own.
