Pets Bring Joy to Seniors, but Costs Are Rising

Older people often feel a strong bond with their pets. A recent survey shows that 83 % of adults over 50 say their animals give them a reason to get up. This is higher than the 73 % recorded seven years ago. Pets also help seniors stay connected. Seventy percent of owners said their animals keep them from feeling lonely. However, caring for a pet can be expensive. Nearly one in three older adults said their budget is stretched by animal expenses, up from 18 % a decade earlier. For those who don’t own pets, about one‑third say cost stops them from getting one. Doctors can help. Because pets influence exercise and mood, some experts suggest asking patients about their animals during check‑ups.Knowing a patient walks a dog can guide fitness advice, and understanding pet care needs can ease hospital anxiety. The survey also notes a shift in perceived health benefits. Only 34 % of owners now say their pets help manage physical or mental issues, down from 60 % in the past. This may reflect changes in health care or how people view pet support. Losing a pet is also hard. Many seniors feel deep grief when a companion dies, and professionals say this loss deserves attention. The study surveyed 2, 698 U. S. adults aged 50 to 95 through phone and online in September 2025. The margin of error is between plus or minus 1 and 3 percentage points. Health resources about the human‑animal bond are available from national institutes.