ARTICLES /
General / Can Rover Come Over?
<
By Cheryl
Ellis, Staff
Writer
Find out from the individual running the
program if any
precedents have
been set that
parallel your
circumstances.
Any reputable
behavioral
training will
reassure family
that the pet can
be a member of
the household
(if that is the
only objection).
Assisted living
centers, nursing
homes, or
hospice may have
slightly
different rules.
Hospice can be
the most
accommodating
when it comes to
end of life
needs being met.
Long-term care
facilities
generally have
one or two pets
(often cats)
wandering around
as unofficial
therapists.
Bringing in a
custom made,
homegrown, duly
deputized four
legged therapist
may be a
surprise that is
welcomed.
Even if it is
not, a serious
talk with the
administrator
and healthcare
provider of your
loved one may
change the
decision.
This is
especially true
if you
contribute to
pet upkeep by
hiring someone
who can be
relied upon to
manage the pet
at the
facility.
Things to
Consider
When the
health of the
loved one is at
stake by keeping
a pet, a serious
discussion with
the physician is
in order.
Make sure the
doctor
understands the
level of
emotional
attachment
involved.
Studies have
shown that
individuals who
own pets lead
markedly better
lives. The
unconditional
love and
companionship
from any pet
boosts self
esteem and the
outlook on life.
These in turn
help the immune
system, decrease
stressors, and
ultimately
improve the
quality of life
and health.
A relaxed, happy
“patient” is
much easier to
care for than
one that is down
in the dumps.
The sense of
appreciation
expands at an
unconscious
level when we
accept the pet
as an extension
of the person we
are caring for.
Opt
for Options
Depending on
funds, those of
us who are still
learning to
revel in caring
for a pet can
consider hiring
a service to
assist us.
The professional
pet caretaker
may be agreeable
to taking Granny
along for the
walk with the
dog. As
long as we have
researched the
company, our
trust and stress
levels are being
addressed.
Family
members may be
willing to
rotate schedules
in helping to
take care of the
pet, for walks,
litter box
changes, and
other needs.
This takes away
primary
caregiver
stress, and
brings family
closer together.
Printable Version
