Toni’s Tips: Pet Adoption

Pet adoption surged in the U.S. during the pandemic, and pet ownership spiked in King, Pierce, and Snohomish Counties. In Seattle-although dog owners still outnumber cat owners-the number of adults who owned a cat jumped 18% in the early months of the pandemic and 4% for dogs.

Whey did animal companionship become even more important than usual during the recent pandemic?

Sue, a Senior Center participant, told me she adopted her cat, Marge, in March of 2020. “She became my best friend almost immediately with her constant purring and sitting in my lap. I honestly don’t think I could have gotten through the early months of the pandemic without her.”

Another member said her dogs kept him faithful about taking a break and getting outside. And, another said she couldn’t imagine life without them. During the pandemic she would leave her apartment with the dogs, and it made her feel like they’d left all the troubles behind for a bit. A member who adopted a rescue dog at the age of two months said she saved his life, and he saved her life. She told me, “Without him I’d be lost. He helps my health and during the pandemic he helped me when I was upset.”

The worst of the pandemic is thankfully behind us, but there are still many good reasons to adopt a cat or dog. They provide love, companionship, and exercise. Research has shown that overall, dog owners tend to live longer than non-owners and often recover better from heart attacks or strokes, especially if they live alone. A study in 2009 found that people who own cats have decreased risk for death due to heart attack or stroke.

Pet ownership is still a big decision. Choosing a pet requires thinking about your lifestyle and challenges. If you’re mobile, a dog could provide good exercise for both you and your dog. If you have difficulty getting around, a cat might be a better choice and usually requires less attention but are still loving companions.

The Seattle Animal Shelter offers free or reduced adoption fees to older adults and to people who adopt older pets. Learn more at seattle.gov/animalshelter.

I hope I’ve convinced you that pet adoption has many physical and emotional benefits for both you and for the cat or dog you adopt!