We all need company, and it becomes especially important thatWe’re old. Having a companion animal, dog or cat next door, helps overcome the loneliness of everyday life for the elderly. In this brief article, we focus only on dogs.
Pets for elderly people, the best medicine
A dog as a pet can be the best medicine a doctor can prescribe to a lonely person in old age. In addition to the company provided, she will have a companion in the animal. It will be a being who should be cared for, brushed, fed, with whom he can talk and play, but it is also a responsibility to be assumed. A dog can be exactly what an elderly person needs.
Before giving a dog to an old man as a gift, It’s essential to have their consent. Because being a companion animal a dog also has needs that need to be met.
Walk with him, pick up his waste, play with the dog, take him Veterinary, etc. Many things must be done, and for many years. Therefore, these elderly people should be willing to do so.
The choice of race suitable for the elderly
As we know, dogs can have different temperaments and attitudes when considering a particular breed., depending on many factors.
These variables can range from the way they were educated by the creator to the environment in which they grew up, and even hereditary factors.
The moment elderly people adopt the dog, it is possible that the animal behaves in a naughty way, or on the contrary, in a totally timid way.
But an adult dog can quickly adapt to the situation in which it should live Whenever you count on the patience and love of the new owner.
Usually, Small dogs are preferred of the elderly, because they are easier to deal with and care for. This makes smaller animals ideal for older people.
Misty breeds for old people
The ideal option to give a companion dog to an elderly person is found in abandoned animal shelters. They have some of the best companions, who could never be found elsewhere and in most of these places there are dedicated people who can help find what the elderly need, free of charge, while helping a big boy in search of a new home.
The adopted dog won’t have to be a puppy, but one that is. obedient and already with some experience on how to behave among humans.
Yorkshire Terrier
These little ones usually measure 20 cm high. It’s an animal. caring and happy that he is always attentive to the presence of strangers. Yorkie needs to have his hair brushed daily and take outdoor walks. Besides, they love playing at home with a ball or other toy. Dogs of this breed do not let go of fur; he is a great companion dog, loyal to his family and who loves living in an apartment, always close to the pet owners.
Boston Terrier
Another small dog, measuring between 35 cm and 45 cm tall, has a life expectancy of 10 to 14 years. This is a Excellent guard dog, that looses little fur. Another good option for the elderly.
Cocker
Its weight revolves around 10 kg to 12 kg and measures between 38 cm and 40 cm, with a life expectancy of 14 to 16 years. Cocker is playful, sensitive and sweetwilling to please and obey the wishes of his family.
Chihuahua
Known for its small size, weighs between 1 kg and 2 kg and measures between 12 cm and 22 cm, has a life expectancy of 15 to 18 years. Chihuahua dogs have a lot of energy and prefer to receive caresses at home while they take a nap on the couch.
Benefits for the elderly
Living with pets can help maintain the self-esteem of the elderly; helps them to feel important and useful, to decrease depression, to concentrate their interest in something, to encourage them to take more care of themselves, to participate in social events related to animals or simply to perform physical activities.
In the case of women, it is proven that a pet favors socialization with other people, while in the case of men, it stimulates the performance of physical activities in general.
This is a mutual relationship in which elderly people benefit from the company of animals, reducing loneliness, but also pets feel loved and find a home.
Giving and receiving affection is the key.