An organization that pairs seniors with elder dogs will be holding their annual celebration for canine companions that have passed on.
ElderDog Canada will hold the 8th annual memorial butterfly release at the national office in Rose Bay.
Founder Ardra Cole, who researched seniors and care-giving in her role as a university professor, became aware of the important role that dogs play in seniors lives.
“I started ElderDog to respond to those primary needs-supporting seniors in caring for their dog so they could stay together as long as possible, and to find new homes for older dogs who lose their companions,” she said.
Cole says many people have good intentions when they go to a shelter or rescue organization looking for a dog, but older dogs are often overlooked.
“Older dogs don’t do well there. It’s no place for them, especially when they’ve lived out life as a companion,” she said.
“They deserve that same comfort and dignity at the end of life.”
ElderDog has a thorough adoption process that involves home visits and references to ensure animals are placed in the right home.
“Once a dog comes into our care, even if they are adopted, we follow them through to the end of their life,” said Cole.
She says there is a long list of seniors who don’t want a puppy and are instead looking for an older dog.
The butterfly release, which includes a gathering and trail walks, will be at 3 p.m. on August 15.
For more information about the butterfly release visit the website here.
