ANIMAL COMPANIONS
Seniors and pets are good for each other

Hawaiian Humane Society

As we age, new circumstances sometimes make it difficult to care for a pet. Unfortunately, this occurs at a time when the companionship of a pet can provide a buffer in the lives of mature adults. Companion animals can reduce problems associated with stress, depression and loneliness.

Increasing evidence shows that people who stay active have strong social contacts and exercise regularly are more likely to remain healthy as they grow older. Pet ownership can motivate people to exercise and enjoy other activities. Pets provide an incentive to stay physically active as well as inspire people to socialize with others with similar interests. Daily walks are a way to meet neighbors. Training clubs, pet shows and other animal-related events also offer important social outlets. Caring for a pet has also been found to aid in the relief of stress, depression and loneliness that commonly affect people in later life.

The adoption counselors at the Hawaiian Humane Society are trained to pair people and pets. The new "Seniors for Seniors" program, in which older animals are introduced to older people, make these mature match-ups even easier.

Senior animals are often already calm, house-trained and well-behaved, making them ideal for people in their golden years. The Seniors program allows seniors free adoption of one dog, or one or two cats, age 6 or more. All adopted animals are sterilized, health checked, vaccinated and provided with a microchip ID.

If the dog or cat "match" is not found when visiting the humane society, seniors can fill out an adoption profile form specifying the type of pet they are seeking. When an adoptable animal companion comes in fits that profile, a phone call from an adoption counselor will bring the two together for a meeting.

The Hawaiian Humane Society is open noon to 8 p.m. weekdays, 10 a.m. to 4 p.m. weekends and holidays.

ADOPTABLES

Tag No. 23457

This sweet face belongs to a wonderful 3-year-old pit bull named Nala. She's a mommy dog who is mellow and affectionate toward friendly people. Nala wants to meet someone who will give her a kind and loving home.

Tag No. 13153

A young-at-heart 9-year-old male cat who qualifies for the Seniors program. The adoption fee is waived for anyone 60 or older who wants to adopt Gizmo, a big, shy guy with many more years of love to give.