The Sage Connection

"Happiness is a warm puppy."

~ Charles M. Schultz

Posted

Is there anything or one more loyal than a dog? More independent than a cat? More beautiful than an aquarium filled with amazingly colored fish?

Seniors take their pets very seriously. We pamper, train to the best of our abilities, make excuses for their” accidents” and unabashedly adore them. We brag about their latest feats as proudly as we do our grandchildren’s. And in some cases, they are lifesavers.

Most everyone knows about the service dogs that help those with health issues. We know petting a pet can lower our blood pressure. Yet little is said about their ability to send the blues flying out the window. For example, has anyone ever been happier to see you walk through the door than your dog?

Pets can alleviate our loneliness and give us a reason to get out of bed in the morning. They NEED us, long after it may seem no one else does.

But keeping a pet fed and cared for can become a problem for those with limited funds. The good news? Help is on the way.

Senior Services for South Sound has an ‘angel’ that goes by the name of Charlie. Charlie does not give his last name. He does, however, match dollar for dollar, up to $15,000 a year through 2022, funds donated to their Pet Assistance Program”.

According to their latest Senior Services for South Sound Newsletter, about seven years ago "Charlie" learned about an urgent yet hidden need in our senior community: Many low-income seniors cannot afford to pay for routine veterinary care, much less a pet emergency. They often put the needs of their pets ahead of their own, risking their own health and wellbeing.

When offered the chance to make a difference, he made a generous donation, and the Pet Assistance Fund was launched.

IF YOU NEED HELP:

You are eligible for pet assistance if you are age 60 or more, and your annual income is $30,000 or less. Just call 360-586-6181 ext 101 or email resource.advocates@SouthSoundSeniors.org. Please note funds are limited and stipends will be awarded while funding lasts.

Another local organization that supports pet owners is Concern for Animals. They maintain a Pet Food Bank and sometimes have funds for emergency veterinary services.

HOW TO GIVE:

Contribute to Senior Services' Pet Assistance Program either online or by check -- mail to ‘Senior Services for South Sound’ at 222 Columbia Street NW, Olympia 98501. Please note in the check memo that funds are to be directed to the Pet Assistance Fund. Or you may donate through the online donation portal. If you choose to donate online this way – please note in the ‘comments’ field of the online form that funds are to be directed to the Pet Assistance Fund.

Similarly, Concern for Animals receives checks by mail at 1414 State Avenue, Olympia 98506 or online.  They also accept donations of food and pet supplies.  Check their website for details. 

MORE OPTIONS:

If, on the other hand, if you find you cannot keep your pet for any reason, or don’t have but want one, here is another option.

Joint Animal Services is jointly operated by the cities of Olympia, Lacey, Tumwater and unincorporated Thurston County. This arrangement allows the jurisdictions to share resources and provide the highest quality of service to the community and its pets. They accept animals that no longer have a home.

You can help by donating items for the animals. Donations can be dropped off at the Shelter or delivered through their Amazon Wish List or Chewy Wish List. The complete list can be found on their website or visit them at 3120 Martin Way in Olympia. Be advised they are observing Covid mask and safe distancing requirements.

My own precious Shih Tzu is named Bambi. She came to live with me after her people had passed and my beloved Yorkie, Mr. Muggs, had crossed over the rainbow bridge. Together we have helped each other heal. And I thank God every day for her.

Kathleen Anderson writes this column each week from her home in Olympia.  Contact her at  kathleen@theJOLTnews.com or post your comment below. 

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