01/11/2024
This video is so heart-warming, we are so grateful to have received the positive fellowship grant through the Office of Ageing Well to pilot this program.
Su-paw-ting older South Australians to care for their furry companions
An innovative pilot program that provided support to help older people care for their companion animals, has resulted in participants experiencing significantly improved physical and mental health, and reduce loneliness and social isolation.
Safe Pets Safe Families was awarded a $40,000 Positive Ageing Fellowship grant last year through the Office for Ageing Well, to run the Paws With Friends pilot.
The program, which ran over a 12-month period, offered tailored animal-focussed services delivered by volunteers, such as dog walking, vet trips, respite and grooming, alongside human services such as connection between the older person and volunteers.
More than 1,100 services were offered during the pilot, to support 12 women and five men, with their animal companions including dogs, cats and birds.
Of the 17 older people who participated, almost all had complex medical conditions, 12 had disability, three had experienced family breakdown, nine had reported feeling social isolated, four had been impacted by domestic and family violence, 10 experienced financial hardship and two were at risk of homelessness.
Paws with Friends remains in operation and is seeking further funding to sustain the resounding success of its first year. As much as possible, Safe Pets Safe Families utilises its dedicated volunteer pool – all outreach workers are volunteers - but there is a need for paid project coordination, including oversight of volunteer caseworkers. Program volunteers and clients have expressed that it is evident the program is not just there for the wellbeing of pets, it is for the wellbeing of older people too. Several clients have reported improvements in mental health and social connection, resulting in an even greater appreciation for the comfort brought by their pets, as well as a sense of being part of the community.
Client quotes taken from Paws with Friends pilot evaluation:
They obviously walk the dog, but then they have a chat about things as well. So, you know, it's not just they come in, say hi, walking your dog, brings the dog back, see you later. They sort of, you know, they will hang around and, you know, have a chat.
I can see it myself in the change in their behaviour... the dogs are much more settled at home. So that's a great relief and support for the dog owner.
And it's wonderful. It's just such a wonderful organisation because there have been times that I've nearly been on the brink of going into hospital and I used to think, "Oh my God, how am I going to look after the animals?" Because I've got two cats as well…. they take care of the dog and they feed the cats in that eventuality. So, I think it's wonderful.
Knowing [Project Coordinator]'s there and she always contacts me. If I send a message, it's pretty much within 24 hours that I get the message back or looking into it for you now.
It's the support. It's the fact that I know there are other people I can rely upon. If I feel helpless and unable to do something I know that they'll step in and help.
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