Inaugural event to bring rescue dogs and aged care residents together

Australian-based animal welfare charity Pound Paws and BUPA Aged Care have joined forces to bring rescue dogs and aged care residents together.

The inspiring partnership aims to alleviate loneliness among the elderly by hosting events with rescue dogs in nursing homes across the country.

The inaugural event will take place at the Clayton, Victoria, BUPA Aged Care facility on Saturday 5 August 2023.

Pound Paws will bring dogs from various rescue groups to the facility to spend some quality time with the residents.

“Pound Paws is facilitating the adoption of pets from various shelters and creating loving companionships in nursing home settings,” says Brittany, Pound Paws’ founder.

“Animals possess a unique ability to communicate without words, impacting the hearts of humans.

“The companionship formed with our furry friends is unparalleled, and Pound Paws is thrilled to launch this partnership with BUPA Aged Care, which fosters numerous loving connections between pet owners and rescue pets across retirement communities in Australia.”

Benefits of pets in aged care

We recently wrote about the benefits of pet companionship for aged care residents after a survey revealed the number of residents forced to part with their beloved pet when they enter aged care.

It’s well known that pet ownership has many physical and mental health benefits for the elderly.

Stress and anxiety reduction, companionship, and increased social interactions are just a few of the benefits of pet ownership for aged care residents.

“We firmly believe that pets can significantly enhance the well-being of residents in our centres,” said Amanda Grimmer ,BUPA Aged Care Business Development Manager.

“Over the years, we have been fortunate to witness countless heartwarming friendships blossom between our residents and a variety of animals, from dogs to birds,”

According to Companion Animal Network Australia’s recent aged care report, a staggering 61% of older adults live alone, with 74% of pet owners among them crediting their animals for providing companionship and alleviating feelings of loneliness.

Inaugural event 

The first event is at the Bupa Aged Care facility in Clayton, Victoria, on Saturday 5 August 2023.

Greyhound rescue group Amazing Greys is one of the pet adoption organisations attending the event.

Dogs rescue from the racing industry will be looking to retire with a companion at the aged care home.

The Rescue Dog Adoption Parade is a remarkable opportunity for the public to learn more about various rescue groups and their incredible work.

Additionally, educational talks on stage cover a range of topics including Animal Communication, Pet Health, and Responsible Pet Ownership.

Further information about the event and ticket sales is available online.

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