Pet friendly care services

Pet Friendly Care Services

Pets are important to people who need domiciliary care and support. They provide companionship, unconditional love and help focus the mind. Caring for a pet provides purpose, a routine and consistency to many people’s lives.

Individuals may find the prospect of caring for their beloved pet becomes more daunting and stressful when they are ageing or unwell. However, there are proven benefits of living with a pet.

At Bluebird Care, we offer a variety of services to help you or your loved one remain at home with the love and companionship of your furry friend. Our carers are dedicated to providing support and care so individuals can continue with their daily routines in the comfort and safety of their homes. Get in touch today to find out more about how we can help you and your family, and provide care and support at home.

Benefits of Pets for the Elderly

PDSA’s 2021 PAW report found that 87% of owners agree that having a pet makes them mentally healthier. Being around pets and animals has been proven to reduce stress, alleviate loneliness and even help children with emotional and social skills.

Having a pet provides its owner with a sense of purpose. For someone living alone, this can bring structure and routine to their daily lives. Forbes found that when older adults were asked what an important benefit was of owning a pet, 63% of those who lived alone stated that the pet ‘gives a sense of purpose’ and ‘gives me someone to talk to’.

The benefits of pets for the elderly aren’t just emotional – they can have a biological impact too. HABRI (Human Animal Bond Research Institute) states that the bond between owner and pet influences levels of blood pressure, heart rate and hormones.

Even if older adults don’t live with a pet at home, they can experience great benefits just from interacting with an animal. Individuals can experience the same benefits as above by playing with and stroking the pets of family and friends. Cats and dogs that visit the elderly are known to bring joy and relaxation. 

Personal Pet and Home Care

The onset of old age or illness doesn’t have to be a reason to give up your current lifestyle. Many pet owners worry about what happens to their pets when they get older. Pet and home care can go hand-in-hand so your loved one and their pet can stay at home together and continue making memories.

If your loved one has a pet, as part of our domiciliary care service we will try and match them to a care assistant who also enjoys and understands animals. Your loved one and their carer will be able to share the pleasure of the special pet together.

There are many benefits to having a pet at home. Some of the most common benefits include:

• Reduced stress and anxiety. Pets can help to reduce stress and anxiety in a number of ways. For example, petting a dog or cat can release oxytocin, a hormone that has calming effects.
• Additionally, spending time with a pet can help to take your mind off of your worries and provide a sense of companionship. Improved cardiovascular health. 
• Owning a pet can help to improve your cardiovascular health in a number of ways. For example, walking a dog can help to increase your heart rate and blood flow. Additionally, pets can help to motivate you to get regular exercise. 
• Increased social interaction. Pets can help to increase your social interaction in a number of ways. For example, taking your dog for a walk can give you the opportunity to meet new people. Additionally, pets can provide a great way to connect with other pet owners.
• Improved mental health. Owning a pet can help to improve your mental health in a number of ways. For example, pets can provide a sense of purpose and belonging. Additionally, pets can help to reduce stress and anxiety, which can have a positive impact on your overall mental health.
• Increased happiness and well-being. Owning a pet can simply make you happier and more content. Pets can provide companionship, love, and support, which can all contribute to a more positive outlook on life.

Of course, there are also some potential drawbacks to owning a pet. For example, pets can be expensive to care for, and they can also be a source of allergies. However, the benefits of owning a pet generally outweigh the drawbacks. If you are considering getting a pet, be sure to do your research to make sure that you are prepared for the commitment.

Here are some additional benefits of having pets at home:

• Pets can help children learn responsibility. Caring for a pet can teach children important life skills such as responsibility, compassion, and empathy.
• Pets can help reduce crime rates. Studies have shown that neighborhoods with a high density of pet ownership tend to have lower crime rates.
• Pets can help improve air quality. Pets can help to reduce allergens and pollutants in the air, which can improve air quality for everyone in the home.
• Pets can help boost the immune system. Studies have shown that children who grow up with pets tend to have stronger immune systems than children who do not.

Overall, there are many benefits to having a pet at home. If you are considering getting a pet, be sure to do your research to make sure that you are prepared for the commitment.

Call us to find out how we can keep you (with your pets) safe and happy at home.