Adoption programs available for older adults at spcaLA

Los Angeles, CA — A recent Forbes article highlighted a Swiss study that analyzed 18 years of data to examine the relationship between pet companionship and cognitive decline in adults aged 50 and older. The study found sharing a home with a dog or a cat may be linked to slower cognitive decline experienced by their owners. Society for the Prevention of Cruelty to Animals Los Angeles (spcaLA) has long stated the health and mental well-being benefits of pet adoption, especially so for the older adults in our community.

Pet companionship improves lives

The research offers compelling reasons for older people to consider bringing home a dog or cat. For instance, people with dogs experienced a slower decline in immediate and recall memory and cat owners benefited from a slower decline in verbal fluency. This research rounds out other proven benefits of pet companionship including increased mobility, better heart health, and improved mental health.

spcaLA is a shelter-partner of The Pets for the Elderly Foundation which helps pay adoption fees for adopters age 60 and older. Adoption fees include spay/neuter surgery, age-appropriate vaccines, a certificate for a free health exam at a participating veterinary hospital, and an introductory offer for pet insurance. Seniors interested in pet adoption can visit an spcaLA Pet Adoption Center and mention the Pets for the Elderly program.

spcaLA Pet Adoption Center:
5026 W. Jefferson Blvd.
Los Angeles, CA 90016
Wednesday-Sunday: 11am-3pm

spcaLA South Bay Pet Adoption Center:
12910 Yukon Ave.
Hawthorne, CA 90250
Wednesday-Sunday: 11am-3pm

spcaLA P.D. Pitchford Companion Animal Village & Education Center:
7700 E. Spring St. (in El Dorado Park)
Long Beach, CA 90815
Wednesday-Sunday: 10am-3pm