If you are a pet owner, you know what a huge role pets play in our lives. Pets are a great source of unconditional love, emotional support and many happy memories. In return we provide them with food, security and of course, love and companionship.
The companionship between pet owner and pets has never been more important than during this time of social distancing and isolation that has been injected into our lives by COVID-19. For many, animal companionship has become an increasing source of their social support network. But at what cost?
Pet ownership can be expensive. The cost can really add up when you consider trips to the veterinarian, groomer and food, especially if your “fur baby” requires a special diet.
LIFEPlan member Tina Fitzgerald, a proud owner of two beautiful dogs, found herself in this exact position about 18 months ago. Due to allergies, her dog Bella needed to be on a grain free diet, and the cost was putting a major strain on Tina’s budget. Fortunately, while Tina was on social media she came across a Facebook post for The Kia Foundation, Inc. After doing some research she learned that they offer reduced cost dog and cat food and a free monthly home delivery service for disabled, veteran and elderly pet owners in Onondaga county, where she lives.
When asked what this support meant to her, Tina said “This is one of the best things I have found! It relieved my stress over being able to afford the food my partner in crime needed. I am lucky to have found this service and want others to know about it too.”
Tina was asked if she would be part of a video about her experience. Being a huge advocate for the Kia Foundation and the support it provides to people who may not be able to afford pets otherwise, she collaborated on a 10-minute video explaining her journey with the Kia Foundation. You can see Tina’s story here.
For some, the responsibility of pet ownership can be overwhelming or not physically possible. Thankfully, much like many aspects of life, pet ownership has seen many advances over the years. New hypo-allergenic breeds have been created, with some trained as service dogs, and pets have become more like family.
Technology has also played a role in pet companionship. LIFEPlan members Diane Smith and Mary 
Cox, who with the help of some caring neighbors and support from Lewi County Office for the Aging (LOFA) both recently received robotic pets.
Much like the rest of us, Mary and Diane have had to adjust to life that now includes social distancing. This means that the social events they enjoyed, like BINGO and seeing family, are no longer an option. Neighbors noticed that this isolation was challenging for Diane and Mary and wanted to help, so they then reached out to see what could be done.
What they found was a program through LOCA and NY Connects to pay for cute robotic cats from Joy for All. Working together, neighbors and friends were able to surprise Diane and Mary with their new robotic pets a few weeks ago. To say the two were happy would be an understatement. Both ladies were extremely excited with the new additions to their families.
“There were times when I felt alone, but now I have company, “Diane shared. “I have had pets in the past, but right now I would not be able to take care of them. I love Fluffy. She purrs and meows, but she also sheds!”
Mary added, “I love the color and how it meows. I like that I can take care of it, play with it and it keeps me company.”
Fun fact– Diane and Mary both named their cats Fluffy! I guess the saying is true, great minds do think alike.