Keeping Pets and Seniors Together: The Impact of Rae of Hope
- Fiona Corrigan
- Mar 5
- 3 min read
Updated: 6 days ago
By: Fiona Corrigan
At every stage of life, pets are more than just companions. No matter your age, our furry friends are sources of comfort, routine, purpose, and unconditional love.
For many senior citizens, that bond is even more meaningful. Research shows that seniors with pets experience meaningful physical and mental health benefits, including increased activity and reduced feelings of loneliness. But for those who are living on a fixed income, keeping up with preventive veterinary care can become financially overwhelming.
No one should have to surrender their beloved pet because routine care is a financial burden and too far out of reach.
That’s why in 2014, the Humane Society of North Texas launched our Rae of Hope Program. Named in honor of our Clinic Director’s late mother, its mission is to ensure low and fixed-income seniors can keep their pets healthy and at home.
Through Rae of Hope, HSNT provides free preventative veterinary services, including vaccines, microchipping, flea and tick treatment, heartworm testing, and prevention. Clinic appointments are held every Tuesday from 9 a.m. to 4 p.m. at the HSNT Clinic, and appointments are designed to be quick and accessible. After check-in, staff even assist by coming to the client’s vehicles to safely bring pets in and out, helping to make the process as smooth and stress-free as possible.
Beyond the veterinary services, Rae of Hope is about something deeper: preserving relationships.
Tulip and Carla:
Carla Baker and her dog, Tulip, are familiar with Rae of Hope. For Ms. Baker, Tulip is more than a pet- she’s family. Like many seniors who have found support through Rae of Hope, Carla expressed how much peace of mind it brings to know that Tulip can receive the care she needs without financial strain. For clients like Carla, Rae of Hope means not having to choose between essentials and her pet’s well-being.
A Second Chance at Companionship:
For Terrell, adopting his dog was a leap of faith after uncertainty about whether he would open his heart to another pet. Through Rae of Hope, he was able to find a trusted resource for himself and his dog that made preventive care simple and accessible. Knowing his dog can stay healthy with a trusted place to turn for care has made their bond even stronger.
Shadow’s Story
Another client shared the story of Shadow, a cat who showed up at her door one day and never left. Shadow now has her own room and cozy spots throughout the house like a true member of the family. Thanks to Rae of Hope, Shadow receives the care she needs, allowing their unexpected friendship to continue to thrive.
Across every appointment, one thing is clear: these pets are not just animals. They are best friends, daily companions, and sources of joy for everyone they meet. The Rae of Hope Program ensures that love isn’t interrupted by that cost.
By offering free, efficient, preventative care, including onsite testing with immediate results, HSNT supports both the health of pets and the well-being of those who cherish them. Rae of Hope is more than a clinic day. It’s a community resource, a safety net, and a reminder that compassion extends in both directions, strengthening the connection between seniors and the companions who bring them comfort each day.
To schedule an appointment, email clinic@hsnt.org or call 817.332.4768 x112.
If you would like to support the Rae of Hope program and help senior citizens keep their beloved pets at home where they belong, please consider making a donation here.
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