The health benefits of pet ownership are well documented; even the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention lists the positive impacts that animals can have on a human’s well-being. The bonds between people and their pets are very strong and studies have shown this bond can actually increase fitness, lower stress and have an incredible impact in bringing happiness to their human companions.
Science has made it abundantly clear that stress and inactivity can take a terrible physical toll on our bodies, so it’s not surprising that the joys, activities and mental stimulation associated with having a pet can help to counteract the negatives in our lives.
The benefits have actually been proven to decrease blood pressure, cholesterol and triglyceride levels. Having dogs can increase opportunities for exercise, outdoor activities and socialization. Getting the dog out for a walk is a great way to start conversations with neighbors and other walkers as well as keeping you moving on a regular basis.
Cats and dogs are both very helpful in combating loneliness with their beguiling ways and desire for attention. Human beings also need to be needed, and taking care of a pet is a responsibility that helps fulfill that need and offer many rewards in return.
Our health and mental well-being are more at risk as we age, especially once the kids are out of the house and retirement leaves us less engaged with the world. Having pets is the perfect way to stay healthy and connected — especially since they don’t talk back, they are much cheaper than children and you can usually talk them into letting you be the boss!
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For all these reasons, the South Jersey Regional Animal Shelter is thrilled to announce our new partnership with the Pets for the Elderly Foundation.
This program provides a $50 discount off pet adoption fees. The discount is available for both cats and dogs to people 60 years of age and older. Details can be found on our website under the special programs tab where we have dubbed it “Adoption Assistance for Retired Citizens.”
Admittedly, we had a tough time coming up with a name for the program as we couldn’t quite swallow considering 60-years-old elderly! And don’t be thrown off by the “Retired” part either; you don’t have to be retired to take advantage of the discount. Likewise, there are no limitations on the age of the pet in this program, it is available on all pets from kittens and puppies to senior cats and dogs.
Bringing a new pet into your household is always a big decision and here at the shelter our staff is committed to help you make the right choice. We work very closely with our adoptable pets so that we can learn about their personalities. We also work with you to understand your lifestyle and what pet might best fit in with your wants and needs. Please feel free to stop by and speak with one our staff even if you haven’t picked out a particular pet; we can help ensure that you and your new shelter animal are just right for each other.
