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

Cardigan Welsh Corgi

The Cardigan Welsh Corgi is a prime example of a dog that can be a good challenge for those who want to develop dog leadership skills.
Jatese

The Jatese, or the Maltichin, brings together two companion breeds into one cute package- the Maltese and the Japanese Chin.
Celebrity Lineup Announced For 2014 American Humane Association Hero D

The stars will be coming out for the 2014 American Hero Dog on September 27 at a red carpet event in Beverly Hills The fourth annual American Humane Associat…
Jusani Culture Online Shop Gives Back To Pet Shelters

With proceeds going toward animal shelters, you’ll feel good about your purchases We love stores and products that are designed to make the lives of do…
Introducing A New Dog Into Your Multi Dog Household

If you''re planning on adding a new dog into your multi dog household, there are a few things to keep in mind to make sure all of your pets are just happy.
Blue Rumped Parrot

As a pet, the Blue Rumped Parrot is generally considered to be a calm, docile bird. Their quietness and sweet nature make them great apartment pets.
Abraca-dog-bra! Dogs Don’t Know What To Make Of Vanishing Magic Trea

Now you see it, now you don’t. Ah, the oldest trick in the book… so how will dogs react to it? Well, they just don’t know what to think. T…
Best Rawhide for Dogs

Rawhide for dogs is a chewy, natural treat that pooches go bananas for. Read on to learn more about the benefits and the potential dangers of rawhide.
Gingerbread Dog Treat Recipe

We’ve checked our list twice and found out we had a lot of dogs to buy for this Christmas. That’s why we whipped up a couple batches of these Gin…
Best Dog Anxiety Vests

Dog anxiety vests can relax your pet in triggering situations by relying on the soothing power of applied pressure. Read on to learn more!
6 Questions to Ask Before You Adopt a Dog With Your Partner

You''re thinking of taking a big step in your relationship - adopting a dog as a couple. Before you do, ask yourself these six important questions.
Celebrate Dogs With The AKC As Extraordinary Pooches Take Over Televis

AKC Celebrates Dogs special airs January 31 on the Lifetime Network What are you doing tomorrow? If it doesn’t include parking yourself in front of you…
Pudelpointer

The Pudelpointer was developed for tracking, pointing, and retrieving but his gentle and affectionate nature gives him potential as a family pet.
French Lop

The French Lop is a large breed of rabbit that makes for a wonderful pet, due to their calm, docile temperament. This rabbit will stick to its human''s side.
Glen of Imaal Terrier

The Glen of Imaal Terrier is small and spirited, though not as excitable as other terrier breeds. Often described by owners as a big dog on short legs.