Dogs, cats and other pets are recognised and cherished by many people, both young and old, for their unique ability to provide companionship, comfort and unconditional love. For many people living with dementia, maintaining a pet has been an important part of their lives and can help define who they are. For others, though they may not have owned pets in their earlier life, interaction with an animal helps minimise some of the confusion experienced by the onset of dementia.
Some research has shown that interacting with animals has a beneficial effect on well-being. Animals are unconcerned with the age or physical ability of their owner and use non-verbal communication which is sometimes less confusing for a person with dementia.
The changes associated with dementia can sometimes make it difficult to know that an animal is receiving adequate food, water and exercise however some changes in the environment and items of assistive technology may be useful in supporting the person with dementia maintain their pet.