It's a sad fact that rehoming some of the elderly animals that come into our care can be a difficult process. But the Elderly Animal Rehoming Scheme (EARS) aims to change this by pairing older animals with appropriate new owners.

Please note: although this scheme is available at some RSPCA branches, it's not available nationwide.

About EARS

Many potential pet owners can be reluctant to take on an older animal due to fears of increased demands on time and money. EARS is designed to help alleviate these worries.

EARS offers owners a range of assurances, including:

• discounted vet visits and food
• help with transport
• a vital 24-hour phone number to call in case of an emergency.

New owners under the scheme will also be given an ID card, which qualifies their pet for a range of benefits, including annual booster vaccinations, health checks, routine worming tablets and flea treatments.

All the branch asks for in return is a small contribution of £5 a month, and that the new owners provide the love, care and attention the animals deserve.
 

Expanding the scheme

The scheme was the brainchild of the RSPCA Halifax, Huddersfield and District Branch after staff and trustees vowed to find a new lease of life for their elderly animals.

Similar schemes also now run in Exeter, Cambridge and Southall, and we are keen to see more branches adopting EARS programmes.

Our Putney Animal Hospital in south-west London has adopted a similar scheme. Putney Pensioners aims to find loving new homes for elderly or disabled cats, whilst giving owners total peace of mind by covering costs of all the medical treatment carried out at the hospital.
 

Transforming animals' and owners' twilight years

EARS provides invaluable companionship for animals and owners, particularly for elderly people who may live alone or who have recently lost a loved one, and the scheme has received the backing of Help the Aged and Age Concern.

Having a pet provides a vital lifeline, which can make a world of difference to those who need it most. But don't just take our word for it. Read more in our rehoming success stories.

Want to adopt an elderly animal?

For more information or to make a donation to either of these schemes, please contact:

EARS
RSPCA Halifax, Huddersfield and District Branch
Telephone: 01422 365628

Putney Pensioners
RSPCA Putney Animal Hospital
Telephone: 0300 123 0716.

Or contact your local RSPCA to find out about rehoming an elderly animal in your area.