Pets Are Truly Lifesavers for Seniors

Questionnaires completed by 35 senior pet owners revealed that a third had considered suicide but cited caring for their pet as a reason to live. The findings suggest that pet ownership for seniors may possibly prevent some suicides. Dr. Gary Kennedy, the director of geriatric psychiatry for the Montefiore Health System in New York City writes, “Animals provide a presence and companionship. They respond to your vocalizations. You feed them, groom them, and with a dog, walk them. There are reciprocity and companionship in the relationship.” Anthrozoös, March 2020