Taking Steps

We are dedicated to supporting senior engagement in the Portland community by fundraising for and contributing to rescue organizations that provide care for their beloved pets—whether temporarily or through permanent rehoming. Our work fosters intergenerational connection and emphasizes ongoing support through coordinated communication between the senior, the rescue, and the pet’s new or temporary caregivers.

Extensive research shows that pet companionship provides meaningful physical and mental health benefits for older adults—and that losing a pet can cause grief as deep as the loss of a human loved one. Recognizing this profound bond, we’re committed to creating thoughtful solutions that honor these relationships and foster lasting community connections between seniors, pets, and adoptive families.

Based on Portland-specific data and national trend comparisons, approximately one in five (or 18,450) Portland seniors could be forced to rehome their pets due to senior housing restrictions.

(Further localized research with senior housing and animal rescue organizations is needed to quantify these figures. Portland-specific data regarding seniors living with pets in senior housing either doesn’t currently exist or isn’t readily available.)

Preserving Bonds

We are dedicated to enhancing senior citizen engagement in the Portland community by supporting pet rescue fundraising efforts and fostering intergenerational connections. Our focus is on helping seniors who need to temporarily board or rehome their pets, ensuring these animals are placed in loving homes through coordinated communication between the senior, the rescue organization, and the pet’s new family.

We strive to achieve this through

● Temporary placements: Keeping pets with their owners and out of shelters during periods of illness or recovery.
● Adoption support: Providing nonprofit shelter sponsorship for pets of seniors in life transition, helping ensure these beloved companions find safe and caring homes.
● Intergenerational connection: Fostering communication between new adopters and the former senior pet owner.
● Community engagement: Participating in adoption fairs and seminars that highlight the unique value of connecting with pets previously owned by seniors.
● Collaboration: Partnering with senior housing, animal rescues, boarding facilities, and other nonprofit organizations.
● Fundraising: Implementing a range of fundraising initiatives to advance our mission to reconnect seniors with their pets while deepening our support for local pet rescue organizations.

Together, through increased awareness and support, we have the opportunity to make a lasting impact so that our Portland seniors and animals are treated with the love, respect, and care they deserve.