It’s a sad, yet common, story. Your mom’s dog is her faithful companion. He’s been by her side for years, and she cannot imagine life without him. However, she’s been diagnosed with Alzheimer’s. If she’s not forgetting to feed him, she’s feeding him too much. She’s forgetting to take him for walks, and she puts him outside on a wintry day and forgets he’s outside. You’re certain the dog needs to go a safe home, but you also worry about your mom’s emotional health if you take her dog from her. Here are some tips on what you can do.
Does the Dog Really Need to Go?
Why is the dog no longer safe in your mom’s care? If it’s a case of the dog isn’t getting outside enough Is there a chance you could hire a pet walker to take the dog out a few times a day? This person could be a teen that lives nearby and could use some cash.
There are situations where it’s best to rehome a dog. Maybe you’ve seen your mom feeding the dog toxic items like candies sweetened with xylitol or she’s letting the dog go outside unsupervised and the dog attacked a person walking down the road. In those cases, you don’t have much choice.
Talk to Family Members and Close Friends
If there’s a chance your mom’s dog could go to another family member or a friend of your mom’s, it’s best to start there. Keeping the dog close means the dog may be able to visit your mom from time to time. Make sure the new owner is able to care for the dog. If the dog is used to being at home with a person 24/7, new owners who work all day and are only home at night may be stressful to the dog.
Visit Your Local No-Kill Shelter
Most states have no-kill shelters that help rehome pets whose owners can no longer provide proper care. In some situations, the shelter allows the dog to stay with your mom while new owners are found. Your mom can then meet her dog’s new owners and know he’s going to a home she approves of.
Call a Senior Care Agency
You might be pleased to find that a caregiver is receptive to helping your mom remember to feed and walk her dog. With the help of a senior care professional, your mom may not have to give up her loyal companion.
If you or an aging loved one are in need of senior care in Stonybrook, NY or the surrounding areas, contact the caring professionals at Star Multi Care Services today at (631)956-8835. We are the Right Choice for Home Health Care Services!
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