The vast majority of pet guardians in Marin are quite comfortable, financially. But there is a population that struggles to meet the needs of their cherished companions. For a senior living on a strict fixed income, buying that next bag of dog food or flea medication can be challenging. The same goes for the formerly homeless single mother who is trying to get her life back on track. Sadly, many of these people are forced to give up their beloved pet because they simply cannot afford to take care of them.
Keeping pets in their homes is of great importance at the Marin Humane Society. It’s obviously the best choice for the animal, but the benefits for their guardians are important, too. Often, for low-income seniors or people with disabilities, their pet is their lifeline, their main source of joy and sometimes, their only companion. And the general care associated with a pet can help people live more energetic lives. As any pet guardian knows, animals need daily attention and help keep us active. Pets help seniors and others establish routines that are beneficial to them both, such as getting outside and walking the dog or grooming and playing with the cat.
According to a study in the Journal of the American Geriatrics Society, caring for a cat or dog helps older adults overcome depression or loneliness. Whether that is from the loss of a loved one, not having family or friends nearby, or not being able to get out much, having a fluffy friend gives seniors a sense of purpose and helps them “live in the moment.”
The MHS will once again sponsor its pet care assistance food and funds holiday drive beginning Wednesday, just in time for the upcoming holidays. Of particular need are small bags of dry dog and cat food and canned cat and dog food.
“Requests for pet food and supplies continue to come into our office daily,” says Annie Humphrey, special human-animal relationships (SHARE) program coordinator. “With the public’s help, we can make the season a little brighter for hundreds of Marin’s less fortunate pets and their guardians. It becomes one less thing to worry about knowing that their pet’s basic needs can be met.”
Donations can be dropped off at either the Novato location (171 Bel Marin Keys Blvd.) or at Kitty Corner in the Red Hill Shopping Center in San Anselmo. And for those who don’t have time to purchase pet food, financial contributions are also welcome and will be used to purchase additional food. Donations can be made online at MarinHumaneSociety.org, by mailing a check or by calling 415-506-6259.
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Funded entirely by donations and grants, the SHARE program provides a lifeline for more than 220 low-income pet guardians in times of need. Ongoing assistance is offered in the form of pet food, veterinary care, home visits, and emergency boarding for pets in the event of a client’s hospitalization. A healthy supply of donated pet food also enables MHS to provide one-time assistance for dozens of others in need and to coordinate with local human needs organizations in Marin to distribute pet food and supplies to their clients.
Donating for our holiday drive is the perfect way to demonstrate compassion for both animals the people who love them.
Lisa Bloch is the director of marketing and communications at the Marin Humane Society which contributes Tails of Marin articles and welcomes animal-related questions and stories about the people and animals in our community. Go to MarinHumaneSociety.org or http://ift.tt/2gegH8T.
