PET OHANA
Group helps sick seniors with their pets
Hawaiian Humane Society
Question: I work in a hospital and often meet elderly patients who live alone but have pets. Is there any service to help care for pets of those who are ill?
Answer: The Hawaiian Humane Society's PALS (Pets Are Loving Support) program offers trained volunteers who can temporarily assist pet owners when they are faced with situations such as illness, age or emergencies.
Seniors, those temporarily hospitalized, the disabled or victims of domestic violence are eligible for services.
PALS is a complimentary service, although the pet owner remains responsible for any veterinary bills, pet food and pet supplies.
Services include basic grooming, exercising, delivery of food or supplies, and emergency foster care.
Q: What other Humane Society human-animal services are available to seniors?
A: The Society's Seniors for Seniors program pairs those age 60 or older with mature pets age 6 or older.
The society waives the $60 adoption fee, which covers $230 worth of services, including spay/neuter surgery, microchip ID and a veterinary exam.
Seniors also have the option to request a dog or cat of a specific size, type or temperament, and when an adult pet matching that description becomes available, an adoption counselor arranges an introduction.
The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention states that in addition to laughter, joy and companionship, owning a pet can result in health benefits: decreased blood pressure, cholesterol levels and triglyceride levels and alleviated feelings of loneliness. In addition, owning a pet can increase opportunities for exercise and outdoor activities as well as create opportunities to socialize with other pet owners.
The Hawaiian Humane Society welcomes questions by e-mail,
hhs@hawaiianhumane.org. Indicate "Pet Ohana" in the subject line. Or, write "Pet Ohana," Hawaiian Humane Society, 2700 Waialae Ave., Honolulu 96826.