Animals offer total acceptance, no matter what a patient's physical or mental disability. Therapy dogs and cats come in all sizes, breeds and shapes, but have in common calm, gentle and people-positive personalities that encourage patients to interact with them. Though therapy animals are specially certified, almost all of them are simply the loving pets of volunteers. Many seniors steer away from pet ownership because they feel that they are too old to deal with a rambunctious animal. But, by selecting an animal carefully, seniors can find dogs or cats that have all of the gentle charms of therapy animals and will fit perfectly into their lifestyle.
Cats are wonderful pets for seniors.
They can generally entertain themselves and need less food and attention than a dog. They are generally quiet and gentle and do not require a yard or walks to get the exercise they require. Dogs, on the other hand, are good pets for those seeking a more active companion. They love to be with their owners and enjoy attention. Dogs need to be walked or let out into a fenced yard regularly.