A friendly cat that brings “endless amounts of joy” to residents of an aged care home on Tasmania’s east coast has found his forever home at the facility.
‘Taco’ was gifted to May Shaw Aged Care in Swansea last year after his elderly owner passed away.
“Prior to giving Taco a loving home, we did a poll of our residents with an overwhelming response in the affirmative of wanting a loving feline companion here,” a May Shaw spokesperson told Pulse.
“Taco spends most evenings on a resident’s bed or keeping our staff company on night shift in the nurse station.”
To celebrate 12 months since Taco’s adoption, the aged care home threw a special ‘Gotcha Day’ party on Wednesday, revealing that he has become “more than just a pet” and is now “a beloved member” of their family.
“Taco is amazing and we love him so much.”
According to the Australian Veterinary Association, companion animals in aged care facilities can enhance physical health, as well as social, emotional and cognitive functioning.
They can also help improve the sense of loss many former pet owners feel after moving into aged care.
Estimates suggest that a mere 18% of aged care homes across the country provide for residents who desire to keep their cat, dog or other pet.
