If you’re a regular reader of this column, you probably know that in addition to being an advocate for older adults in the Merrimack Valley and North Shore, I’m also an animal lover. My two dogs, Willow and Max, are not just pets, they’re a part of my family. Pets give us unconditional love, companionship – and studies have shown they keep us healthier, too. That’s why I’m happy to share that registration is open for our AgeSpan Power of Pets fundraiser, which raises money to help older adults in our community pay for the expenses that can come with caring for a pet.

When pets who have been a part of the family for years need veterinary care or prices for basic care go up, this program bridges the gap. By helping to pay for things like antibiotics, a vet visit that can’t wait, or even a trip to the groomer, the Power of Pets helps older adults keep their pets healthy and by their side. Last year, the program helped Bob, who lives at The Villa in Tewksbury, pay for his cat, Mia to get her nails clipped.

“Mia is more than a pet – she’s my best friend,” Bob told us. “Living on a fixed income makes it hard to afford even basic care, but the Power of Pets program made it possible for me to keep her healthy.”

Stories like Bob’s are why this matters, and this year we have extra motivation to spread the word about the Power of Pets. An anonymous donor (and devoted parent to two senior cats) has issued a challenge: if we can raise $5,000 for the program this year, they will match it. We’re calling it a Double-Dog Dare Challenge – and you can help us meet this goal by making a donation or buying a ticket to our Power of Pets fundraiser, which will take place Wednesday, September 23rd from 5:00-7:00 PM at BareWolf Brewing in Amesbury.

Tickets for this event are just $35 per person and include one craft beer or wine and snacks. With games, door prizes, and raffle baskets, it’s a really fun night out. Of course, the event is dog-friendly, so you can bring your favorite furry friend along with you. To purchase tickets or donate to this program, visit our website at www.agespan.org/upcoming-events/. I hope to see you there!

Are you caring for an older adult or need help finding healthy aging resources? Our experienced staff is available to help. Visit us online at www.agespan.org. You can also call 800-892-0890 or email info@agespan.org. 

Joan Hatem-Roy is the chief executive officer of AgeSpan, which serves the following cities and towns: Amesbury, Andover, Billerica, Boxford, Chelmsford, Danvers, Dracut, Dunstable, Georgetown, Groveland, Haverhill, Lawrence, Lowell, Marblehead, Merrimac, Methuen, Middleton, Newbury, Newburyport, North Andover, Peabody, Rowley, Salisbury, Salem, Tewksbury, Tyngsboro, Westford, and West Newbury.