Ollie, Tillie, Allison and Daisy Mae dotted my lifetime as a growing girl. Providing memories of love, happiness, loss and sadness. Life as a young girl involved loving dogs and as an adult, cats – Merlin and Morgana, plus two grumpy Russian Tortoises – Vladimir Tiddles and Willow Storm. The most recent of additions to our family is the abandoned street kitty that soon warmed up to our affection, heated home and tasty food. Miss Kitty, aptly named by our neighbor, is pictured in this blog. Welcome Miss Kitty – adopted on 2/6/2025!

Pets, they mean the world to us, names that are etched in our memory. Their love and appreciation of the care we provide is something that remains with us forever. So why is it that so many people feel that when they grow older or their loved ones age that pets might not be a good fit? Of course there are the logistical issues where care is concerned. Families don’t always have the time to care for their own pet or go over and care for a loved-ones pet. Plus the thought of scheduling veterinary appointments and ensuring all are following good animal husbandry can be too much.

A study conducted by Friedmenn et al (2020) discussed many aspects of pet ownership noting the benefits and disadvantages experienced. The study was quite comprehensive and eye opening. It was found that the older a person was the less likely they were to have a pet, for fear of not being able to care for it. That the test participants who did have pets enjoyed better physicality because of having to exercise the pet to keep it active. Those persons who owned pets in this study tested higher on cognitive and memory skills as opposed to the participants who did not have pets. One interesting aspect of the study was the finding that those with pets noted they are less likely to leave town, go on vacations or visit family for fear of leaving the pet, which could cause further isolation. This study is very interesting and is a recommended read.

What can be learned from all of this? Pets are an extremely important part of life. Having that companionship and ability to love something that gives back is priceless. However, through bringing another life into your home, it must come with the understanding that you are taking that responsibility on yourself. The responsibility rests with those family members who bring a pet into an elders home as well. Providing care and ensuring the safety of your loved one and the animal are paramount. The benefits of pet ownership are real, higher cognitive ability and memory retention, improved physicality with walking or playing with the animal and the companionship. Adopting these amazing animals has the potential to bring joy to many lives, even in the event when the companions adopt you.

What do you think? Can you list all of the animals in your life? Comment below so we can chat.

Blessings,

Sarah DeDonatis

By the way, one way to remember your pets is to write about them. Here is a blog that might interest you.