So here is something that doesn’t make a lot of sense to me, that as humans enter their “senior” years, when pets are more important than ever in providing companionship, love, and a long list of health benefits, that they are often separated from their beloved pets. It is heart-breaking for the senior and all involved in the senior’s life, including the pets. So let’s take a few moments of preparation so we can prevent this from happening to you.

My friend James Hall of Senior Care Fitness recommends being pro-active in planning for the potential event later in life when you can’t and or don’t want to live independently. It is important to start finding an assisted living facility or living situation that you can afford and will allow you to bring your pets with you before you need it. You can research options on your own, with family, or senior service agencies.

Once you find viable options go visit them and get more details about pet policies as well as other services and activities. Be prepared with questions that are important to you and assess whether it has the kind of culture you want. For example, if you’re looking for a place that’s pet-friendly, take note of whether you see folks out for walks with their dogs or whether the center has social opportunities for animal lovers.

If your goal is to continue living independently as long as possible talk with family or friends about how important it is to keep your pets in your life and make a plan to do so. James also recommended looking for pet care shortcuts such as timed feeders for pets, water fountains and sifting litter boxes for cats and dog walkers to keep your pets healthy with less responsibility for you.

You also need a solid plan for your pet’s care should you no longer be able to provide it. Plan with family or friends who you trust to provide the loving care your pet needs and include clear directives in your will. If you don’t have people who can provide your pets care than find services that do this. For example Second Chance Humane Society offers a planned giving program that includes caring for and re-homing pets with loving new families.

Anyone who has had pets before knows what a huge responsibility it is, which is why it's so important to set yourself up for success. Becoming less independent as well as moving into assisted living are already major life changes, for both you and your pets. With the right resources, though, there’s no reason why you can’t both adapt and enjoy your new lives together.

Since 1994, the Animal Resource Center and the Shops of Second Chance Humane Society have been dedicated to serving animals in Southwestern Colorado. Our adoption hours are every day from 11 a.m. to 5:30 p.m. We are located at 177 County Rd 10, Ridgway, CO. You can view our shelter pets and services online at secondchancehumane.org.