Tanya Clarke
Head of Dog Adoptions, DSPCA
Adopting a pet in later life has numerous benefits, from improved physical health to an enhanced sense of purpose. An animal shelter alleviates concerns and outlines the adoption process.
Keeping active through regular walks, playtime and general care routines can lead to improved mobility and reduced risk of some chronic conditions. Pets can provide companionship, reducing anxiety and depression while enhancing a sense of purpose and connection, especially for elderly adults who might feel isolated.
Adoption can improve human and animal wellbeing
The Dublin Society for Prevention of Cruelty to Animals (DSPCA) focuses on rescuing, rehabilitating and rehoming sick, injured and cruelly treated animals. Tanya Clarke, Head of Dog Adoptions at the DSPCA, explains: “The elderly tell us they are lonely but are struggling to adopt from other places. Seeing someone leave with a new pal is so rewarding; for the dog, they go out being the whole life for that person.”
The process has a lasting impact. “One lady in particular was very lonely. She adopted a dog through us who gave her so much life. She came back a few weeks later to donate a large sum to the centre, so we could continue to rescue and rehome dogs.”
Pets can provide companionship, reducing
anxiety and depression while enhancing
a sense of purpose and connection.
Alleviating adoption concerns
It’s normal to have concerns about adopting a pet later in life. However, being matched with a pet suited to your abilities and knowing your support options can help you enjoy the benefits of companionship without worry. “We get to know the person, their family and their support system to get a good idea of the network of support for both them and the dog,” assures Clarke.
“The best advice I can give is to come up and chat with us. We are open to the public Tuesday to Sunday from 12–4 pm. You don’t need an appointment to visit us, and we have adoption consultants here every day who will be happy to talk through your concerns.”
Other ways to provide support
If adopting a pet is not an option for you, there are other meaningful ways to make a difference. “We have lots of information on our website for anyone thinking of adopting or wanting to get involved in other ways,” notes Clarke.
Legacy giving is one way to help, allowing donors to contribute to causes they care about after their passing. “Legacy giving helps us plan for the future, to help more animals come into our care and allows us to continue to rescue, rehabilitate and rehome them,” she concludes.
Established in 1840, DSPCA is the leading animal welfare charity in Ireland.
For more information on the pet adoption process, go to: dspca.ie/
