The ISPCA - What we doThe Irish Society for the Prevention of Crueltyto Animals is Ireland’s largest national animalwelfare charity, and represents 20 affiliatedmember societies. Together the ISPCA andour members help, rescue, treat andresponsibly rehome tens of thousands ofanimals of all different species.

‘The Society Cares for all Animals’

How does ISPCA Cara Programme work?

Step 1: Visit the ISPCA National Animal CentreOur dedicated staff will spend as muchtime as you need to ensure you areteamed up with the right friend.

Step 2: A Home VisitA home visit is arranged to see how wecan make the transition of owning a newpet as easy for both of you as we can.

Step 3: AdoptionWhen you are 100% decided on yourfriendship, we will arrange the adoptionprocess with all fees waivered.

* To qualify for the ISPCA Cara Programme scheme, you need to be a senior citizen. The scheme only applies to ISPCA Cara Programme behaviour tested animals.

Pets can have a profound and positiveimpact on people. Age Action is delightedto support the ISPCA’s Cara Programmescheme that helps animals, and also helpsimprove people’s lives.

Daragh Matthews, Business Development at Age Action

ISPCA Head Office, National Animal Centre, Derryglogher Lodge, Keenagh, Co. Longford

Tel: 043 33 25035E-mail: info@ispca.ieWebsite: www.ispca.ie

Charity number CHY5619

Kindly supported by the Ireland Funds

ISPCA Cara Programme is acommunity scheme that provides pet companionship and support forsenior citizens in our communities.

Pet companionship can be a great comfortand support to owners providing physical,social and emotional benefits; particularly tothose who might not have adequate socialinteraction or live isolated lives.

Bridget Ryan & Gizmo

‘My husband Johndied a year ago atthe age of 83 and I was terribly lonelywithout him,especially at night.I wanted a little dog I could be kind toand which wouldkeep me company’.

ISPCA Cara Programme breaks down thebarriers of elderly pet ownership. Often thedecision not to have a pet can be causedby concerns such as:

What would happen to my pet if Iwent into a nursing home or evenpassed away?

If your family cannot take over theresponsibility, the ISPCA will take backyour pet and secure them acompassionate and safe home.

(Where possible we will liaise with the newowners about visits to the nursing home).

I don’t have a large income?

The ISPCA will ensure your new bestfriend is fully vaccinated, treated forparasites, neutered, micro-chipped andhas a full clean bill of health.

The adoption fees are completely waivedfor ISPCA Cara Programme animals.

What about exercise?

Exercising your pet is a great opportunityfor social interaction, keeping healthy andmaintaining a sense of purpose. However,we understand that as we get older wehave less mobility. The dedicated team atthe ISPCA will carefully select a suitablepet to match your energy levels.

The ISPCA's experienced staffthoroughly assess the behaviour of

ISPCA Cara Programme animals andwork closely with the adopter to ensure

they are paired with the right animal.