Since today was a bit of a slow January day, I thought it best to busy myself with doing the de-nesting of my office that somehow gets itself cluttered with papers and publications over a month and sometimes year’s time. I happened upon a photo I snapped some years ago of a client and her dog that were seated on a couch in their home. After her dog realized I wasn’t an intruder, she hopped back up on the sofa to resume the position she likely had before I’d arrived. That dog’s look is precious.
Since I’ve been working with the general public marketing real estate likely longer than I’d care to admit, I can say without a doubt that there is something extremely beneficial for people, especially the elderly, to have some sort of pet with which to create a bond. It’s unfortunate that so many elderly housing complexes don’t allow pets within their rules and regulations. Some of my very best elderly friends over the years have had cats and dogs. Don’t get me wrong when I appear to not like cats in the house. I’m sorry to say I couldn’t endure having a cat in my home simply because I am allergic to them. When on the farm, we always had outside cats and I enjoyed them much, but had to wash my hands soon after playing with them as not get the itching and sneezing started. I normally don’t have a problem showing homes that have cats as long as they vacuum and keep their homes clean of the dandruff and hair of which I am allergic.
I recall so many elderly couples as well as those living alone having lap dogs as pets and for some reason, they seemed to be more content and tuned-in to the world around them. Since the elderly are more confined to their apartments and homes, their sense of purpose in life becomes diminished since their children have likely moved far away and many of their life-long friends being in assisted living arrangements or passed away. With that said, I believe having a pet gives the elderly a living creature to nurture, enjoy, and above all, something to care for in their lives. I remember long ago a wealthy woman who lived here in Mason City who left a large chunk of money for the care of her dog after she passed. That dog meant more to her than her distant and likely greedy nieces and nephews who rarely if ever came to visit her. I have to admit, having known her somewhat, she would lean towards being a bit on the brassy side and indeed spoke her mind whenever the opportunity arose.
I spoke with a customer some days ago who mentioned a neighbor of hers who lived to be 98 years old and remained in her own home up until shortly before she died. The only company she had was her dog and a visit once or twice a week by her son. It seems she was alert and fully aware of her surroundings and always had an upbeat outlook whenever my customer would go over and see her. I have another client who is retired and lives alone. She looks forward to taking her little pooch for his early morning and evening walk. I think that walk is the meta-physical therapy they both need to remain plugged-in to the world around them. Every time I see someone neglecting a pet, I think, “Oh how much an elderly person would be a godsend for that poor animal who is starving for attention.”
I’m convinced that sooner or later, every body will need a buddy to fill a need
