New book offers insight into how animals can improve health

A new book, launched next month, promises to provide an invaluable resource for older pet owners, health and social care professionals, veterinary staff and housing providers in understanding the relationship between older people and pets. 

Compiled by the Society for Companion Animal Studies (SCAS), Understanding older people and pets: A comprehensive guide will draw on recent research to give readers an insight into how companion animals improve health, provide social support and enhance the quality of life for older people living in the community and those in sheltered housing and residential care homes.

The book addresses a wide range of key issues, from animal-assisted therapy programmes, to the challenges faced by older pet owners moving into sheltered housing. The book also contains guidelines on pet policy for housing providers and offers useful pointers for the practical application of research to support older people in health and social care settings.    

The book will be launched at a major conference exploring the roles of pets in the lives of older people organised by SCAS, in partnership with the charity Age Concern, at the Charity Centre, London on Wednesday 4 May.

To order a copy of the book call SCAS on 01993 825573 or to reserve a place at the conference, please call 01993 825597, email info@scas.org.uk or visit www.scas.org.uk

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Notes to editors

SCAS works in partnership with The Blue Cross.

SCAS is a registered charity dedicated to increasing knowledge and understanding of the relationship between people and companion animals. The charity also promotes the quality of life of people and pets by encouraging responsible attitudes.

The Blue Cross is Britain's pet charity, providing practical support, information and advice for pet and horse owners. Through its network of animal adoption centres it rehomes thousands of animals each year. Its hospitals provide veterinary care for the pets of people who cannot afford private vets' fees.

Age Concern supports all people over 50 in the UK. Local Age Concern groups and organisations provide essential services such as day care and information. Age Concern campaigns on issues like age discrimination and pensions, and works to influence public opinion and government policy about older people.