Working in partnership with the Blue Cross pet charity

Older people and pets

By the Society for Companion Animal Studies (SCAS)

Compiled by the Society for Companion Animal Studies, this book provides an invaluable resource for anyone who is concerned about the well-being of older people, including health and social care professionals, veterinary staff and housing providers.

The reader is given insight into how companion animals improve health, provide social support and enhance the quality of life for older people in different settings - those living in the community as well as those in sheltered housing and residential care homes - and in different ways. The book addresses a wide range of key issues, from animal-assisted therapy programmes, to the challenges faced by older pet owners moving into sheltered housing, to the impact of pet loss for older people. The book also contains some very useful guidelines on pet policy for housing providers and staff working in institutions.

Drawing on recent research findings, this publication provides current information on key research studies and, importantly, reviews the significance of these findings for older people. Written in an accessible style, the book highlights good practice and offers useful pointers for the practical application of research to support older people in health and social care settings.