Pets for Life

Firebird PR provides media relations for the Society for Companion Animal Studies

Here at Firebird PR we have two four-legged recruits: veteran bearded collie Brewster and fledgling rescue pup Finnbar. While they don't earn a paycheck, in many ways they do help contribute to the psychological and physical well-being of staff. Recognising for ourselves the benefits of pet ownership, we are very happy to be providing the press office function for the Society for Companion Animal Studies (SCAS).

SCAS works to raise awareness of the important bond between people and their pets, and through its Pets for Life campaign is highlighting the plight suffered by many older people in Britain who are forced to give up beloved pets when they move into residential care or sheltered housing. The campaign is appealing to all housing providers, public and private alike, to adopt responsible pet policies that enable older people to make an informed choice about their future.

In the UK, there is still a lack of formal policy in many residential care and sheltered homes to manage the needs of elderly and vulnerable people who wish to keep pets. Currently only 35% of homes in the UK have any formal written policy on pets in place, despite a growing body of research which supports the psychological and physiological benefits of pet ownership.

Studies show that older people who are forced to part with a pet to move into residential care can suffer feelings of bereavement that are similar to the loss of a family member. Severe reactions can lead to depression, disturbed sleep or eating patterns, and even physical illness. Conversely, older people who do keep pets enjoy a smoother transition into residential care, as well as significant health benefits, such as a lower risk of heart attack and stroke.

SCAS received a welcome boost of support in early spring, when Nigel Waterson MP presented to the House of Commons the Second Reading of his Private Member's Bill to increase the number of residential care and sheltered housing providers which allow pets to live with their owners.

Find out more about the Pets for Life campaign
(External web site)