New Orleans, LA –As reported by the National Institute on Aging, many seniors struggle with feelings of loneliness and isolation. New Orleans animal welfare organization SpayMart has a cure for that: adopt a senior cat.
It’s all part of their innovative Seniors for Seniors Program, which pairs senior cats (7 years and older) with senior humans (65 years and older) for a match that benefits both.
Adoption fees for seniors are waived, and SpayMart covers necessary veterinary care for the first 30 days as well as an annual wellness check-up. A SpayMart volunteer is paired with each adopter to provide support as needed.
“Owning a pet reduces depression, loneliness, and stress,” said SpayMart co-founder Lynn Chiche. “It is a win win program, providing a senior citizen with a lifelong companion and a senior cat with a loving home.”
Mary Fiser, 77, adopted senior Max from SpayMart last month. She was drawn to him for his quiet nature, so different from an active kitten. “There was something about his calmness, his face, his demeanor that spoke to me,” she said. “Something I was looking for myself, an animal who was quieter, not running around zooming through the house every morning at 6:15.” Max lived up to her hopes and more, being a peaceful companion while she reads or watches TV, and sleeping with her in bed at night.
The benefits of the Seniors for Senior Program also motivated Fiser to adopt Max. “Knowing they provided a cat who had been vetted and cared for made a big difference,” she said. “Also, that they would be there to provide support through the cat’s life, and mine. It eases any worries about adopting at this time of my life.”
November is Adopt a Senior Pet Month, the perfect time to bring a senior person and cat together. To learn more about the Seniors for Seniors Program or to view senior cats available for adoption, visit https://spaymart.org/seniors-for-seniors-2/ or email adoptions@spaymart.org.
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About SpayMart
SpayMart’s mission is to ensure no animal enters local shelters at the risk of losing their lives. Our success is achieved by providing the public aggressive, proactive spay/neuter initiatives, robust adoption programs, and access to medical care regardless of income. Learn more at www.spaymart.org.
Mary Fiser and Max, as well as SpayMart co-founder Lynn Chiche, are available for interviews. For further information, please contact Christie Keith at communications@spaymart.org.