Separating from a Pet to Move into Assisted Living in Hill Country Village, TX?
We tend to get attached to our pets. Many people throughout the United States treat their pets as though they are part of the family and the loss of a pet can be devastating. If you have an elderly loved one who is planning to move into assisted living and they can’t bring their pet with them due to regulations or policies, this can be traumatic for them, and the pet.
How can you help them cope with the separation that they are going to deal with when moving into their new home at the assisted living facility? One thing that you can do, and should do, is to be patient with them. One of the most important things for them is likely to be that their pet will be cared for. There are millions of pets across the country that are living in shelters. Far too many of them will never find another human to take them in and, sadly, after some time in a shelter, they may be euthanized.
Of course, there are shelters that are no-kill shelters, but the pet could end up sitting in a cage most of the time waiting for someone to adopt him or her. Your elderly loved one likely understands this and they will likely not be able to bear the thought of that happening to their beloved pet.
If you have the means and are willing to take their pet in, or you know someone who would be a good host for the pet, then make sure that you discuss this with your loved one prior to him or her moving into assisted living. If you wait until the last moment, then you could end up creating a high level of stress for your loved one needlessly.
If you are willing to take the pet in and care for it as your own, then you would be able to bring your loved one to your home whenever possible so that he or she can spend time with their furry friend. If you are unable to care for the pet, but know someone who can, then visits may not be practical.
Be aware that separating from a pet, especially one that they have spent many years with, can be very difficult and can lead to depression. Be aware of the signs of depression and let the assisted living staff know what has happened so that they can provide the right level of support and care for your loved one as they go through this unique grieving process.
For more information about Pipestone Place Assisted Living in Hill Country Village, TX or to take a tour, call today (210) 718-0211.
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