February 27, 2024

By: Sarah A. Neikam, CAWA

The SPCA Albrecht Center for Animal Welfare offers hope and connection, not just for animals, but also for our community’s senior and elderly citizens through initiatives that intertwine the well-being of senior+ individuals and animals, fostering an environment where both can thrive.

First, there is the “Seniors for Seniors” pet adoption program. This program allows senior citizens, age 60 and above, to adopt senior pets, age 6 and above, at a significantly reduced adoption fee of just $6. This fee includes the pets spay or neuter surgery, age-appropriate vaccinations, testing, and a microchip. This program not only provides often overlooked senior pets with a loving home, but also enriches the lives of senior citizens with the joy and companionship of a pet.

Secondly, the SPCA Albrecht Center proudly collaborates with The Pets for the Elderly Foundation (PFE), a distinguished 501 (c)(3) public charity. PFE is dedicated to fostering companionship between senior individuals and pets, thereby saving the lives of animals in shelters.

In a significant expansion of their mission in 2020, PFE now also supports veterinary care, retention services, food support, and more for pet adopters aged 60 and over. The SPCA Albrecht Center is privileged to be one of two partner shelters in South Carolina, uniquely offering both pet adoption and veterinary support through this partnership.

Lastly, March is a special month for the SPCA Albrecht Center, thanks to its partnership with Aiken Senior Life Services (ASLS). This collaboration brings a series of enriching events:

On March 1st from 3 – 7 PM, Aiken Senior Life Services will host its Spring 2024 Open House, featuring a variety of programming for local seniors. The SPCA Albrecht Center will be present to introduce their “Save a Life – Foster a Pet” program. This initiative educates participants on fostering kittens and puppies, preparing them for adoption. Notably, these sessions are offered at no cost thanks to ASLS, encouraging community involvement.

Session 1 (March 5th, 1 – 2 PM): This session focuses on fostering kittens, covering essential skills like bottle feeding and preparation for adoption.

Session 2 (March 12th, 1 – 2 PM): Dedicated to fostering puppies, this session also explores other volunteer opportunities at the Albrecht Center.

Then on March 19th from 1 – 2 PM, a field trip to the Albrecht Center is planned, providing participants an up-close experience with the facilities and the animals in need of foster care.

Through these initiatives, the SPCA Albrecht Center for Animal Welfare not only enhances the lives of animals but also significantly contributes to the well-being of the senior community. It creates a harmonious environment where the elderly find companionship and purpose, and animals find love and care.

Learn more about the SPCA Albrecht Center’s Seniors for Seniors adoption program and their partnership with The Pets for the Elderly Foundation at LetLoveLive.org or PetsForTheElderly.org.

Learn more about Aiken Senior Life Services and their programming at AikenSenior.org.

Sarah Neikam is the Marketing Director for the SPCA Albrecht Center in Aiken, SC. She has been with the organization since 2012, holding various roles including Volunteer Coordinator and Director of Operations & HR. A Certified Animal Welfare Administrator as of 2022, Sarah is a passionate advocate for animal welfare. She resides in Aiken with her husband, Tom, and their six cats.