If you have a furry companion in your life, you already know the joy, friendship, and unconditional love they offer. They provide even more than snuggles and wagging tails – pet therapy for seniors encourages movement, promotes joy, creates a sense of purpose, and improves overall well-being.
But as we age, caring for pets can sometimes feel like a challenge. Thankfully, you don’t have to do it alone. Whether arthritis is making daily walks difficult or you’re looking to take a much-needed vacation, hiring a dog walker or pet sitter can be a game-changer for independent living, letting you enjoy the benefits of a pet without stress.
That’s where GoGo Home Services comes in. Our service connects you to trusted dog walkers, pet sitters, and other home services, making independent living easier and more enjoyable. Keep reading to learn why hiring pet care professionals benefits seniors and their four-legged companions.
1. Encourages Daily Exercise Without the Strain
Walking a dog is an excellent form of exercise, but for seniors with mobility issues, joint pain, or fatigue, daily walks aren’t always easy or possible. Hiring a dog walker ensures your pet gets the physical activity they need without pushing or straining your body.
And the best part is, it doesn’t have to be either-or. On days when you feel little or no pain, you can enjoy the great outdoors with your pup. But on days when your joints stiffen up, you can call up your trusted dog walker to help give your pooch playtime. This means you can still enjoy the benefits of pet therapy for seniors – like reduced stress and increased happiness – without risking falls or overexertion.
2. Provides Peace of Mind While Traveling
Whether it’s visiting family for the holidays or taking a bucket-list vacation, finding a reliable pet sitter can make your travels a lot less stressful. You love your pets so much, so the worry of leaving them behind can feel overwhelming. Having a trusted pet sitter on-call ensures your furry friend gets top-notch care in your absence, keeping their routine stable and minimizing their anxiety (and your own).
3. Offers Companionship and Emotional Support
There’s a reason why pet therapy for seniors is so widely praised. Pets provide comfort and emotional support and even help combat loneliness. However, for seniors who struggle with physical limitations or mental health concerns, tending to their pet’s needs can become difficult. Having a pet sitter or dog walker ready as-needed ensures you can enjoy all the emotional benefits of your pooch without feeling overwhelmed by responsibility.
4. Maintains Pet Health and Happiness
Just like us, pets thrive on routine, exercise, and attention. If you have a busy schedule or limitations that make it hard to keep up with your dog’s routine, a dog walker can help. Dog walkers keep pets mentally and physically stimulated, which helps reduce behavioral problems like excessive barking or destructive chewing. A pet sitter can also give medications, feedings, and companionship when seniors need a little extra help, allowing you to focus on independent living while ensuring your pets stay happy and healthy.
Pro-tip: Many of our clients use a dual approach. They walk their dogs in the morning when they have more time or their bodies feel the most limber, and then they hire a dog walker for the afternoon or evening. This is a great approach to make sure you and your pup get the most out of your days.
5. Reduces Fall Risks and Physical Strain
For seniors with arthritis, balance issues, or mobility concerns, walking a dog can sometimes feel more like an obstacle course than an enjoyable outing. A strong dog pulling on a leash or sudden movements can increase fall risks. Hiring a professional dog walker ensures that your pet gets their needed exercise while reducing the risk of injury for you. Plus, GoGo Home makes it easy to find a trusted helper for walks or pet care so you can continue aging in place safely.
6. Supports Recovery After Illness or Surgery
It’s especially challenging to care for a pet if you’re recovering from surgery, illness, or even a temporary injury. Hiring a temporary dog walker or pet sitter ensures that your beloved companion continues receiving the attention and exercise they need while you focus on healing. GoGo Home connects you to trusted pet professionals for as much or as little time as you need, so you can prioritize recovery without sacrificing the joy of pet ownership.
7. Supports a Busy Schedule
For seniors who enjoy independent living, a busy schedule can make it tough to juggle pet care. Doctors' appointments, social events, and hobbies shouldn’t be sacrificed due to pet responsibilities. Hiring a pet sitter or walker ensures your pet stays well cared for while you live life on your terms.
8. Prevents Pet-Related Stress
While pets for seniors provide immeasurable joy, the responsibility of caring for them can sometimes feel daunting, especially during life changes or unexpected events. Knowing you have access to trusted pet care through GoGo Home can help alleviate stress, allowing you to focus on enjoying your pet’s love and companionship rather than worrying about logistics.
9. Makes Aging in Place Easier
At GoGoGrandparent, we believe that aging in place should be stress-free and fulfilling. Having a pet can make a home feel warmer and more joyful, but pet care shouldn’t feel like a burden to your life. Whether you need help with daily walks or long-term pet care solutions, GoGo Home makes it easy to stay connected with trusted pet professionals who make pet care a breeze.
Pet Therapy for Seniors
There’s no doubt that pets bring love, laughter, and companionship. But when pet care becomes challenging due to mobility, travel, or health concerns, hiring a sitter or walker is the perfect solution.
If you or a loved one could use help with pet care while aging in place, GoGoGrandparent is here to help. With GoGo Home, you can connect with trusted dog walkers, pet sitters, and other home services, ensuring that both you and your pet continue to thrive.
Ready to make pet therapy for seniors easier? Register with GoGo today to start enjoying all the benefits of aging in place with your beloved furry friend by your side!
