Your dad says he’s lonely and is talking about getting a dog or cat for companionship. Before he takes this step, it’s important to have a talk about the realities of adding a pet to his life. These are the points to discuss and how home care can help make this wish happen safely.
Does He Understand the Care That’s Required?
A fuzzy puppy or kitten may look appealing, but is he truly ready for the care that’s required. A puppy needs to go outside for bathroom breaks every hour or two at first. A kitten is going to get into everything. Puppies chew everything.
He needs to be on his toes and making sure that his house is puppy- or kitten-proof. If he adopts an older dog or kitten, the work is easier. But, the dog still needs to go for walks, have its nails trimmed, etc.
Is He Mobile Enough For a Pet?
How mobile is your dad? A dog will need to be taken outside multiple times per day. Walks are important. If he cannot handle at least one daily walk, a dog may not be the right choice. If he insists on a dog, he’d need to hire or find someone to walk it with him.
A cat might be the better option. But, he needs to realize that a cat requires care, too. His cat requires a litter box, and that litter box needs to be cleaned regularly. His cat will also want some play time though not always as much as a dog.
If he’s not mobile at all, a bird might be a better idea. His bird won’t require him to be as mobile. Plus, the right birds can be taught to talk to him. That could be appealing to him.
What’s His Budget?
How much money does your dad have? If he is on a limited income, a dog or cat may be too costly. Consider fish as a more affordable pet.
He could also consider volunteering at a local animal shelter. He’d have pets to spend time with and not have to pay the vet bills. If fostering is an option, that can be a great way to have pets in need of love and companionship without the financial commitment. Once the animal is ready to be rehomed, your dad hands it over and waits for the next dog or cat in need of a foster home.
What Happens if Your Dad Is Unable to Keep Caring for His Pet?
No one wants to consider the worst-case scenario, but if something happens and your dad cannot care for his pet, what happens? Can you or another family member adopt the pet or would the pet end up in a shelter?
Your dad’s pet may not thrive in a shelter situation. If no one is available to take your dad’s cat or dog if something happens to him, it’s better not to get the pet. Instead, look into alternatives to a pet for companionship.
Home care aides can stop by as needed for companionship visits. Your dad will have someone to spend the day with and join him for meals. If he wants to go out, his caregiver can drive. If he’d rather sit on the couch and watch a movie, his caregiver will join him. Talk to a home care specialist to learn more.
If you or an aging loved one is considering home care in Mattawan, MI, please contact the caring staff at Fresh Perspective Home Care today. Call (269) 329-4717
Fresh Perspective Home Care is a trusted non-medical senior home care provider in Kalamazoo, Portage, Mattawan, Richland, Vicksburg, Schoolcraft, Three Rivers, Gull Lake, Yorkville and Otsego, Michigan.
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