Home

Volunteer call to walk seniors’ pets

Catherine MasseyBusselton Dunsborough Times
POOPS co-ordinator Cathy Gibson with client dog Beau and Judy Yeats with her dog Mitzi.
Camera IconPOOPS co-ordinator Cathy Gibson with client dog Beau and Judy Yeats with her dog Mitzi. Credit: Catherine Massey

Pets of Older Persons Busselton is on the hunt for volunteers to walk elderly residents’ furry friends.

Busselton POOPS co-ordinator Cathy Gibson said the organisation was volunteer-run and aimed to keep people and their pets together.

“Our pooches are mainly owned by elderly members of the community whose health now prevents them from exercising them,” Mrs Gibson said.

Pets are vital to many elderly, sick and disabled people because of the loyal companionship and purpose the animals give them.

Get in front of tomorrow's news for FREE

Journalism for the curious Australian across politics, business, culture and opinion.

READ NOW

“Age, medical emergency and disability can prevent many owners from being able to fully care for their pets and this is where we can help — it’s as much about human wellbeing as it is about animal welfare,” Mrs Gibson said.

She said they were looking for volunteers to do one walk per week.

She said it wasn’t necessary for walkers to commit to the same time and day each week.

SAFE Busselton branch co-ordinator Jackie Murray said it was better for the health of elderly people if they kept their pets for as long as possible.

“Sometimes potential walkers aren’t sure what’s involved and not sure they can commit, but you would be surprised how the smallest commitment can still be really helpful to little volunteer groups like ours,” Ms Murray said.

Visit poopswa.org.au/volunteer- application.

Get the latest news from thewest.com.au in your inbox.

Sign up for our emails