Sun, 03/06/2012

Mary recently hosted A Conversation on Pets and Aged Care at the ACT Legislative Assembly.

“This is the beginning of a community conversation about the role that pets play in the lives of older Canberrans,” Mary said.

A number of studies have found that animals can have a positive impact not just on happiness but also on the general health and wellbeing of older people.

“We are aware of instances where people have been required to give up their pets as they become older, causing distress to both the person and the animal. I would encourage everyone to consider how we can avoid this happening.

“It is particularly important that we have this conversation now so that it can inform future discussions around how we deal with this important issue as the population ages,” Mary added.

Many people who are actively involved in pets and aged took part in the discussion, including residents and managers of retirement villages, the RSPCA, representatives of the veterinary profession, as well as representatives of a number of aged care service providers.

“I am very pleased to advise that, as a result of the event, a steering group has been formed to continue the conversation about pets and aged care in the community,” Mary announced after the event.

Further information about the event and how you can find out about the steering group is available from Mary’s office, which can be contacted on 6205 0100 or go to #petsandagedcare to join the conversation.