MP BACKS PETS BILL

Eastbourne & Willingdon MP Nigel Waterson has thrown his weight behind a Bill designed to ensure older people can take their pets with them when they move into sheltered accommodation or into care. The Bill was presented by Labour MP Nick Palmer.

Nigel commented after the Bill passed its first Commons stage: “The problem is that there is no nationwide policy about pets when older people move out of their own homes. As a result, 38,000 healthy pets have to be put down every year, and another 100,000 have to be given up by their owners. Many of these will pine for their master or mistress, and have to be put down as well.”

“This is totally unacceptable in a civilised country. Other countries, like France and the USA, have laws allowing older people to keep their pets. Some local councils, like Wandsworth, lead the way with enlightened policies.”

“Pets are an important source of physical, emotional and social support. And there are proven health benefits for older people to have access to pets. It can improve cardiovascular and mental health, and is a great antidote for loneliness, which afflicts so many older people.”

29 Jul 2009