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When you get older, all that seems to happen is you have to give up things—work, home, mobility, health, loved ones and friends. This program allows our residents to hang on to something—their pet—which is usually their best friend, and they can bring them with them during this scary and emotional period in their lives.
—Raeleen, Kingscliff NSW
Do you have a story to share?
As important as research and data are, sometimes it’s the anecdotes and lived experiences that are the most powerful.
You could be an elderly pet owner, a family member or a facility operator who has seen, firsthand, the incredible contribution made by a companion animal in an aged care setting. Or, perhaps, you’re a staff member who has worked in a facility that has welcomed pets. Please share your story with us (anonymously if you choose).
Please also submit here or to our social media accounts any general questions you have about pets in aged care.
Tell us your story
Are you a senior citizen living at home with your pet, a resident or employee of an aged care facility, or animal welfare advocate? We invite you to tell your stories about pets in aged care and have your questions answered.
Tell your story
Please note: All text and photo submissions become the property of Companion Animal Network Australia and may be edited for clarity or brevity, and may be reused or requoted in the future. You agree that you are the copyright holder of any submitted text and photo by submitting your story, and by doing so are fully licensing the text and image to us for our use as we see fit. Not all stories are selected to be published. Editor's decisions are final.
Your stories
Elizabeth receives ongoing support from the Cherished Pets Foundation to keep her beloved dog, Percy, healthy and by her side – from daily walks and vet visits to respite care during hospital stays. Their bond is a beautiful example of how pet-inclusive care helps people and their pets stay together.
Read more…
Kathryn finds aged care that loves dogs, too
Kathryn from ACT
When Kathryn moved into aged care, leaving her rescue dog Molly behind was never an option. She chose LDK Amberfield for its pet-friendly policy which celebrates the joy and comfort pets bring to older people.
Read more…Why Pets Belong in Aged Care: From Personal Experience to Advocacy
Di Johnstone AM from
As President of Pets and Positive Ageing and resident of a pet friendly retirement village, Di Johnstone AM says pets are critically important companions for older people, bringing health, happiness and connection, and offers practical advice on planning for pet care and overcoming barriers that too often separate older people from their beloved companions.
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