AARP, Best Friends Animal Society Unite to Combat Loneliness in Texas

Two-thirds of adults report experiencing social isolation and high levels of anxiety since the beginning of the Covid-19 pandemic, according to "The Pandemic Effect: A Social Isolation Report," a study conducted by AARP Foundation in collaboration with the United Health Foundation (released Oct. 2020). Best Friends Animal Society and AARP Houston are partnering with the goal to ease loneliness and bring comfort during these stressful times by pairing Houstonians with adoptable Houston pets.

Since March 2020, social isolation and feelings of loneliness have increased in adults because of social distancing and home quarantine measures. But social isolation causes more than just loneliness. "Research shows that it can lead to health issues like heart attacks, stroke, type 2 diabetes, cognitive decline, and premature deaths for older adults and their caregivers," said Rosalinda Martinez, AARP Texas Associate State Director of Outreach. "A pet can combat loneliness and help reduce isolation and its consequences."

"Texas is the number two state in the country for the most cats and dogs killed unnecessarily in shelters due to space," said Kerry McKeel, State Communications Strategist, Best Friends Animal Society. "We are proud to be partnering with AARP Houston to help save lives in the Lone Star State and, through this campaign, aim to help people deepen their bond with their pets, as well as help those longing for social connection find solace with an adoptable pet in Houston."

The campaign will feature a special free webinar series focused on the benefits of human-pet interaction and the comfort, joy, and companionship only a furry friend can provide. Participants will also receive a special 50% discount code to adopt a pet through Houston's Best Friends adoption program. Webinar topics will include:

All Your Pet Behavior Questions Answered
March 5, noon (CST) 
Has your pet been acting differently since the quarantine started? Does your dog lose his mind when someone comes to the front door? Wondering why your cat doesn't always use the litter box? Wish your pup would not pull so much during her walks? Tune in for an engaging webinar on pet behavior with expert trainers from Best Friends Animal Society. Animal behavior experts will take questions live, answer pet-related questions, and provide training and behavior tips that will help people and pets live happier, healthier lives together. Register here

How You Can Help Pets in Your Community
March 19, noon (CST)
Are you an animal lover interested in helping pets in need in your community? This information-packed webinar will feature special guests from Best Friends Animal Society, who will discuss the work being done to save animals right here in Houston. There are many ways to make a meaningful difference, from local volunteering to advocating. As a bonus, there will be some live appearances from some special dogs and cats available for adoption through Houston's Best Friends adoption program.  Register here

Once registered, AARP members, family, friends, and guests will also receive a 50% discount code to adopt a pet through the Best Friends Houston adoption program. All pets adopted through Best Friends Animal Society are vaccinated, spayed, or neutered and have a microchip.

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