Pets give elderly a new sense of purpose

As we get older, the benefits of owning a pet change, A pet can provide a new sense of purpose for an older adult. Pets are no longer just a faithful friend or an adorable playmate. Susan Kurowski, executive director of the Pets for the Elderly Foundation says, "Pets can help them stick to a schedule, a routine, because they know someone is counting on them. Owners often start taking better care of themselves." Here are some suggestions for dogs as companions. Best breed of cats can be found at aarp.org/bulletin ALLERGIC OWNERS Portuguese water dog Bichon frise Standard schnauzer Maltese Bedlington terrier FOR PROTECTION Doberman pinscher Akita Rhodesian ridgeback German Shepherd Giant schauzer APARTMENT LIVING Pug Greyhound French bulldog Shih tzu Cavalier King Charles spaniel GOOD WITH GRANDKIDS Beagle Newfoundland Bulldog Golden retriever Labrador retriever EXERCISE CHAMPION American Staffordshire terrier Dalmatian German shorthaired pointer Brittany Border collie OK IN THE COLD Tibetan mastiff Norwegian elkhound Keeshond Alaskan malamute Siberian husky COOL WITH CATS Poodle Bichon frise Bernese mountain dog English setter Golden retriever