In early 2022, the team at Cherished Pets crossed paths with an extraordinary woman named Elizabeth. She had recently relocated to the Geelong region, seeking solace and support after a series of life-altering events. Diagnosed with multiple sclerosis, Elizabeth moved into an independent living village, hoping to be closer to her beloved husband, Ken, who was battling advancing dementia and residing in a care home in Geelong.

Elizabeth reached out to Cherished Pets with a heavy heart, seeking home veterinary services for her older Australian Shepherd, Lilly, who had been diagnosed with leukemia. Understanding the depth of Elizabeth's bond with Lilly, the Cherished Pets team dedicated themselves to providing home palliative care for Lilly. Despite her own mobility limitations, Elizabeth was determined to ensure Lilly's final days were filled with love and comfort. Respecting Elizabeth's wishes and her spiritual beliefs, the team supported Elizabeth with a beautiful end-of-life experience for Lilly, with her resting peacefully on Elizabeth’s lap amidst ceremony, music, and ritual.

During their visits, the Cherished Pets team noticed that Elizabeth needed additional assistance not just for Lilly, but also for her other dog, Percy. Elizabeth had been relying on a private walker to help with their daily exercise. This is how Megan entered their lives. Initially a private dog walker, Megan was so inspired by Elizabeth's story and the mission of Cherished Pets that she transitioned into a volunteer walker for our organisation and then through Elizabeth's recommendation, became a member of the Cherished Pets team.

Understanding Elizabeth's needs, and seeing she and Percy needed ongoing support, the Cherished Pets Care Team then conducted an intake assessment and matched them with a dedicated volunteer who would visit regularly and take Percy for his walks. Megan, now an integral part of our Cherished Pets team, is able to continue to provide respite care for Percy, ensuring he is well taken care of while Elizabeth manages her health.

Currently, Elizabeth is in the hospital, feeling isolated after the recent loss of her husband, Ken, who passed away last July. Despite her own challenges, Elizabeth remains remarkably connected and engaged with so many people in the community.

A social worker by background, Elizabeth sees the great value our Veterinary Social Workers provide to people in our community and to our vet teams. Elizabeth's network has also proved invaluable to Cherished Pets. Through her, we have been introduced to her brother-in-law, David Mellor, a globally renowned animal welfare scientist known for developing the Five Domains Model of Animal Welfare. David is now connected with Dr Lissi, providing advice and support as Cherished Pets continues to expand its innovative Model of Care that harnesses the power of the human-animal bond.

We see every day that services such as ours are needed in our community. Over many years of supporting pets and their people experiencing vulnerable times, we've learned that crises and unexpected challenges can happen to anyone. It is thanks to our generous donors we can provide these essential services for both pets and their people.

We now face an urgent reality - our government funding has ended, and donations are essential to meet the current demand so that no one is turned away.

Currently, we can only support 1 in 4 people seeking veterinary care for their pets due to a lack of funds. Our team is ready to support everyone, but we need your help. Your donation of $25, $50, or $1000 or more, will provide socially disadvantaged people with access to veterinary bill assistance and pet care services.

Donate today and give comfort to those in need, knowing their cherished pets can receive the care they deserve, regardless of the challenges they face.

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A summary from our Aged Care Impact Report 2023

Supporting seniors with pets, a demographic often affected by increased feelings of loneliness and social isolation, fosters a more fulfilling quality of life. These positive outcomes stem from enhanced emotional wellbeing, reduced loneliness, higher levels of physical activity, improved cognitive function, reduced financial strain, a sense of purpose, companionship, and active involvement in social activities.

Outcomes

• In 2023, Cherished Pets generated $4,390,000 in social value.
• 40% of this total value was experienced by elderly clients.
• Aged Care Services generated $5.40 of social and economic value for every $1 invested.

Our Impact

Cherished Pets ensures that animal-loving older people with companion animals receive the necessary at-home care for their pets. Our services preserve the unique human-animal bond, reduce the likelihood of pets being surrendered or euthanised, and support family and community connections.

Our Services Include:

• Volunteer Program: Provides social connection and community engagement, creating a ripple effect of benefits across our community.

• Community Vet Nurse Service: Coordinates pet care services to increase wellness.

• Transport and Transfers: Provides transportation to grooming, appointments, emergency care plans, and respite care, keeping animals healthy and safe.

• Financial Assistance: Offers support for veterinary costs, making vet care accessible.

• Pet Care: Includes dog walking, cat litter tray cleaning, support with medications, and feeding of pets.

• Emergency Care Plans and Pet Respite Care: Keeps pets safe and secure, providing peace of mind for owners.

By offering thorough and compassionate care, we not only relieve the pressure and financial strain on pet owners but also help pets enjoy healthier, happier, and longer lives with their owners.