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

Toxirn

The confident little Toxirn brings the sassy but devoted nature of the Chihuahua together with the spirited, playful personality of the Cairn Terrier.
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.
Pekingese

The Pekingese is a toy dog that was bred to be good company and comfortable on your lap. These dogs were dogs were a favorite of Chinese imperial nobility.
Portuguese Water Dog

A hard working dog that is wonderful to own, the Portuguese Water Dog is the perfect companion for many families. Read on to find out if it''s a good fit.
African Tiger Fish

African Tiger Fish are a large and predatory species of fish. Their bodies are powerful and streamlined, enabling them to move with fast bursts of speed.
Greek Harehound

Developed in Southern Greece, the Greek Harehound is a skilled and fearless hunter with boundless energy and excellent stamina.
Schillerstovare

A Swedish breed, the Schillerstovare were developed to exhibit a lively temperament, strong scenting ability, and versatility in the field.
Glossy Black Cockatoo

The unique and rare black cockatoos are rising in popularity. Find out more about the Glossy Black Cockatoo, the friendliest breeed of the bunch.
Why Does My Dog Eat Grass?

Have you noticed your pooch sneakily snacking on grass? Here''s why your lawn clippings suddenly seem as appetizing as kibble.
Miniature Bulldog

Miniature Bulldog usually refers to a hybrid mix of a purebred Bulldog with a purebred Pug, but can also be a purebred Bulldogs bred down for size.
Best Car Door Covers

We’ve rounded up the 10 best car door covers for pet owners that want to keep their vehicles pristine – read on to find a perfect match!
Top 10 Dogs For First-Time Owners

You''re ready to be a pet parent. We''ve created a Top 10 list of dogs for first-time owners - take a look at these breeds perfect for first timers.
Product Review: Mountainsmith K-9 Cube

The first official sign of spring at PetGuide is when canine camping pro Kevin Roberts subtly sends us requests for all the cool, new gear he wants to try. S…
Kai Ken

If you picture a small dog with a dark coat, pointed ears and a fluffy tail, you have the image of a Kai Ken. They are considered a fairly rare breed.
Portuguese Podengo Pequeno

The Portuguese Podengo Pequeno is an ancient, no-nonsense hunting hound from Portugal. They are multi-sensory hounds that use both their sight and scent.