Pets for the Elderly

Pets for the Elderly is a non-profit foundation that was started in Ohio in 1995. This worthwhile foundation donates money to 59 participating animal shelters in the United States. This money is used to help the elderly adopt a furry companion for free. The fees for adoption include the adoption fee, spay or neuter cost, and immunization shots. The goal of the organization is two-fold. One is helping the elderly live a happier and healthier life. Two is finding a new home for an animal who might otherwise be euthanized. Loneliness is a serious disease for the elderly. A furry companion gives them unconditional love and friendship. For some a furry companion gives them a reason to get out of bed.

Last year, because of funding from the Pets For the Elderly Foundation 4,730 animals were adopted by the elderly. If you would like to help contribute or learn more about this worthwhile cause, please visit their website, www.PetsfortheElderly.org. Your contribution will save a life of an animal and increase the quality of life for an elderly person. All donations - small or large - are greatly appreciated!

If you know an elderly person who would like to adopt a pet, but is unable to afford the adoption fees, you can contact Pets for the Elderly by calling 1-866-849-3508 or e-mailing info@petsfortheelderly.org to find a shelter in your area which receives funding from this worthwhile foundation. In Washington State, the participating shelters are The Humane Society for Seattle/King County in Bellevue (tel #425-641-0800) and The Humane Society of Cowlitz County in Longview (tel #360-577-0151).

Another worthwhile organization is called the Budkis Charbonneau Fund. It provides funding for low income elderly in the Seattle/Bellevue area of Washington State to pay for vet bills. To make a donation or to learn more about this organization, please check out their website, www.budkischarbonneaufund.com. On Saturday, October 14, their annual fundraiser will be held. Last year they raised nearly $30,000 at the auction.