About Us
The Pet-Friendly Aged Care program is owned and run by Companion Animal Network Australia-Australia CAN—a registered charity representing the companion animal welfare work of member organisations across Australia.
Pet Friendly Aged Care was established to highlight the often-catastrophic emotional harm caused when older people are forced to give up their pets upon moving into an aged care home, and to provide a more practical way forward.
What we do
Companion Animal Network Australia’s Pets in Aged Care Survey shows an urgent need to support pet ownership for older Australians who choose to live independently. Find our more about Our Petition
What we know
In a quest to find out what the aged care and broader community thinks about pet ownership among older people, Pet Friendly Aged Care has established a series of ongoing surveys.
For example, did you know:
- 86% of people say pets ease the transition into aged care
- 95% of people believe pets contribute to improved health outcomes for older people
- 78% of people say a pet lessens loneliness among older owners
The results are providing us with valuable insight and data that we can take to government and use to agitate for change.
Who can help and how
Everyone has the chance to make a difference. It doesn’t matter how old you are, whether you work in the sector or even if you know an older person with a pet…there are practical things you can do that will make a difference to this important movement.
By using your influence in a practical way, you will be adding to the chorus of voices that are agitating for positive change. As our community ages, more and more older people with pets will enjoy the benefits from your contribution.
- Share your story with us: info@australiacan.org.au
- Help us build our knowledge base: take our survey
- Keep the movement purring: please donate here
- Raise the topic with politicians in your state: find your local representatives or contact the relevant Aged Care Minister: National | VIC | WA | SA | NT | NSW | QLD
- Stay connected with us: Facebook | Instagram | LinkedIn