Cats on Laps Shelter Animals Bring Senior Citizens Special Love

Published A Few Days Ago
ADVERTISEMENT

An animal shelter in Bangor, Maine is using adoptable cats to bring lots of furry love to seniors who aren’t able to have pets of their own.

The Bangor Humane Society has an innovative program called Cats on Laps. Lovable shelter cats are brought to visit residents in various nursing homes, warming laps and delighting the seniors. A feline-fabulous group of five–Merle, Snowflake, Lemmy, and kittens Munchkin and Midnight– visited the Phillips Strickland House, an Independent Senior Living in Bangor, Maine. Their canine buddy, Eddie, also joined them.

The house residents gathered together, gleefully watching as the cats explored, played in the residents’ laps and purred with affection. Resident Sally Berry, 73, loves when the cats come. Prior to moving to Phillips Strickland four years ago, Berry had cats and dogs living with her.

Related: Senior Canines Bring Love And Companionship To Senior Citizens

Fellow resident Diana Lindsay, 79 said that she’s always had pets and loves to see how the animals interact with the seniors. She likes watching the cats make their rounds in the room full of laughter.

Laurie Qualey, who is a human society volunteer and co-founded the Cats In Laps program a little over a year ago, says that connecting the lovable cats with seniors who love pets but can no longer have their own is just kind common sense. Qualey said that everyone loves it, and it helps the seniors remember good times while allowing the shelter animals to socialize as they wait for their forever homes.

Qualey also brings the program to Ross Manor, another independent living home, as well as a local rehabilitation center. She believes the bond between humans and animals is something special, especially because many of the residents had to give up the ability to have pets of their own when they moved into care facilities.

Related:Study: Seniors Who Walk Their Dogs Enjoy Better Physical Health

Interestingly, the Bangor Humane Society is experiencing a little bit of a unique problem–there are high rates of adoption these days (a great problem to have!) and so sometimes the volunteers will bring their own pets to engage with the seniors. While Qualey said that there is usually a large group of cats and kittens to choose from at the shelter, when there is not, they are happy to share their fur-love as a way to give back to their supportive community.

ADVERTISEMENT

ADVERTISEMENT

You May Like

Tyrolean Hound

Also known as the Tyroler Bracke, the Tyrolean Hound is known for its scenting skill and ability to withstand rough conditions.
Darters

Darters are a type of small freshwater fish similar to perch that can be found in freshwater streams throughout North America.
More Dog Food Recalls Due To Listeria and Salmonella

Another group of dog food recalls has gone out, warning dog parents about the potential for salmonella and listeria--is your dog''s brand on the list?
Kyi-Leo

The Kyi-Leo is a cross between a Lhasa Apso and a Maltese. These designer dogs have a sweet and calm temperament, making them great family dogs.
Adoptable Dog Of The Week – Bentley

Meet Bentley, our Adoptable Dog of the Week from Adoptapet.com. He’s a young Yorkshire Terrier who lives in Madison Heights, MI. He is already neutered…
7 Festive Tips To Ensure A Pet-Friendly Holiday Season

This Thanksgiving, your pets will no doubt be included in the festivities. Here''s what you need to know to make sure your dogs and cats don''t overindulge.
Cat Treadmill Works as a Feline Personal Trainer [Video]

It’s a new year and time for your fat cat to kiss that fluff goodbye. Meet the Little Cat–an $1800 ‘personal trainer’ for your cat th…
Bordernese

The Bordernese is a cross between a purebred Border Collie and Bernese Mountain Dog. This is a popular breed because of its fantastic personality.
Understanding Your Cat’s Heat Cycle

If your kitty isn''t spayed, you can expect your female cat to go through heat cycles. Let''s talk about what it is and what to expect.
Blue Crowned Conure

With its fun and silly behavior,ability to learn new tricks, and a big appetite for cuddling, Blue Crowned Conure is nothing short of a perfect pet.
How Do Dog Insurance Companies Check for Pre-existing Conditions?
TailsUp! App Helps Kids Get To The Bottom Of Animal Awareness

No “If’s, And’s or Butt’s” about it, your kids are gonna love this app! Not since “Pin the Tail on the Donkey” has…
10 Summer Fun Stuff Roundup for Dogs

It''s summertime and we can''t wait to get out there with our pets to enjoy the weather. We''ve collected 10 fun-in-the-sun products that you''ll love!
Tails From A Pet Sitter: Walking In A Winter Blunderland

An excited dog and slippery conditions don’t mix. Here’s how to safely walk your four-legged friend in the snow. This time of year can be dishear…
Florida Cracker Horse

The Florida Cracker horse is willing to work, and it is a spirited animal, with high levels of endurance and stamina, even in unfavorable environments.