Dogs and the Elderly

  Posted on November 12, 2009  by Joy of Living  No comments

Jessie, the wonderful canine companion:  My Yorkie-Poo friend, Bolt, has a human whose grandma is now 105 years old.  At a family gathering recently, someone suggested that Grandma get a dog to keep her company.  Everyone laughed at such a silly notion, not so much that Grandma should have a dog, but that Grandma is 105 YEARS OLD…isn’t that bit too advanced in years to be thinking about a pet?

Dogs do provide great benefits for seniors, however, and we are happy to oblige.  For example, here are some ways in which we provide health benefits to the elderly:

• Reduce blood pressure
• Reduce cholesterol levels
• Enhance social activities.  (Grandpa can go to the dog park and pick up some cute Grandma!)
• Ease the pain when a loved one dies
• Provide affection and unconditional love
• Encourage increased activity in seniors
• Decrease feelings of isolation and loneliness

When deciding what type of breed to get for an older person, take into consideration where he or she lives, his or her physical condition, strength, and health status and compare this to the temperament of the dog.  The person needs to be able to handle the dog well.  Among some good choices of breeds for seniors include Bichon Frise, Boston Terrier, Cocker Spaniel, Havanese, Italian Greyhound, Japanese Chin, Llasa Apso, Maltese, Miniature Poodle, Pug, and Shih Tzu.

If you have any questions about pets and your senior friends and family members, turn to the experts at My Joy of Living Pet Sitting Services in Kansas City.

(Information for this post obtained at www.puppy-basics.com.)