Greater Newbury Elder Pet Fund
Mission Statement
Recognizing the essential role companion pets play in the lives of their owners, the Greater Newbury Elder Pet Fund works to ensure no pet owner will be forced to relinquish their pet due solely to financial inability to provide for that pet.
Pets and People - A Healthy Mix
Most pet owners will tell you how their pet brings joy to their lives. But what many don't know is just how much that animal may improve overall health and well-being. Numerous studies conducted by organizations such as the National Institutes for Health and the Centers for Disease Control, as well as major universities, have shown that, among other benefits of pet ownership, pets can...
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Reduce Blood Pressure
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Increase activity levels
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Reduce social isolation
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Reduce anxiety and depression
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Provide a sense of security
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Provide a sense of purpose
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Ease Loneliness
If pet ownership were a medication it would be patented tomorrow.
Dr. Edward Creagan
Mayo Clinic
A survey conducted by the AARP of pet owners over the age of fifty showed that...
95% of pet owners talk to their pets
82% believe their pet helps them when they feel sad or anxious
77% believe touching their pet makes them feel better
67% say that their pets make them feel better when they are ill
74% say their pet makes them feel safer when alone
Not surprising, a different study, this one conducted by the CDC, reported that over 77% of older adult pet owners would rather sacrifice their own comfort and health than be without their beloved pet companions.
For all the good pets do, for some pet owners the financial challenge of providing for their beloved companions can lead to impossible choices. Do I surrender my pet because I can no longer afford its care? Or, do I sacrifice my own comfort and health to keep my pet? The challenge of providing for a companion pet is particularly hard for older adults and for those with special needs. The Greater Newbury Elder Pet Fund was established to reduce the financial burden of pet ownership for those who struggle financially.
What we do...
Pet Food
With the generous support of many in the community, we strive to provide pet food to those who struggle financially. We work closely with the First Parish Newbury Food Pantry to ensure that our neighbors who need help have access to food both for themselves and for their pets.
Veterinarian care
Many pet owners served by the Fund are older adults with older pets. Older pets often need more extensive veterinary care to stay healthy. For many of our clients, the cost of such care proves prohibitive and they face the impossible choice of either surrendering their beloved companion pet or early euthanasia. The Pet Fund works closely with area vets to control costs wherever possible and to assist clients in obtaining and paying for needed care.