Chatham Kent Animal Rescue, established in October 2010, is dedicated to helping senior pets who find themselves in kill shelters due to neglect or being deemed unwanted. Since its inception, the rescue has focused on providing these animals with the retirement homes they deserve. However, the success of this mission depends on committed foster families who can provide safe, loving homes for these pets.
Senior pets often end up in shelters through no fault of their own. Some are surrendered due to changes in their owners’ circumstances, such as illness or relocation, while others are abandoned simply because they have aged. These animals, still capable of forming deep bonds and living fulfilling lives, often face euthanasia without intervention.
To address this, the rescue recently launched the Precious Partners program, which pairs senior citizens with senior pets needing permanent foster care. This initiative aims to offer companionship to seniors while relieving them of the financial burden of veterinary care. The program highlights how senior pets can become cherished walking companions and loyal friends.
“Senior pets are often overlooked, but they have so much love to give,” said a representative of the rescue. “By fostering, you’re not just saving a life; you’re enriching your own.”
Fill out the foster form, here.
Myths About Senior Pets
The rescue also seeks to dispel common misconceptions about senior animals. Many people believe adopting an older pet means inheriting problems, but this is not necessarily the case. Often, these pets have been well-cared-for but lose their homes due to circumstances beyond their control. Concerns about high veterinary costs are also addressed, with the rescue ensuring that all senior pets receive an initial health assessment and ongoing care through affiliated clinics.
Contrary to popular belief, senior pets are often highly trainable and can learn new skills with patience. They remain active and playful if in good health, and their established personalities make them predictable and well-mannered companions.
“Older pets are usually past the destructive stages of youth,” the rescue noted. “They’re content to be loved, fed, and cared for. They just want to share their golden years with someone who appreciates them.”
How to Get Involved
The Precious Partners program seeks foster families and local businesses willing to sponsor the initiative. Foster families are provided with food, toys, and other necessities, with tax receipts available for personal contributions. The program currently serves Chatham Kent, Windsor, Sarnia, and surrounding areas.
Local businesses can support the program by becoming monthly sponsors for senior pets in care. In return, sponsors receive recognition on the rescue’s website.
For more information on becoming a foster family or sponsor, contact Chatham Kent Animal Rescue at 519-354-5000 or visit their website to submit an application. By fostering or sponsoring a senior pet, individuals and businesses alike can help provide these deserving animals with a loving home for their twilight years.
More details are available at https://ckanimalrescue.com/.
