Our Community Pet Support Scheme aims to enhance human and animal wellbeing through sustaining the relationship between companion animal and human in the community for as long as it is mutually beneficial.

The scheme provides elderly, physically disabled, vulnerable and housebound people with assistance to care for their companion animals in their own homes.

It also aims to create a foster support network (for the temporary care of owned pets or animals atb LAA seeking an alternative environment).

It also aims for the prevention/postponement of a move into a rescue centre environment or the provision of an alternative to this type of environment is beneficial for companion animals.  The specific improvements in both physical and mental wellbeing arising from pet ownership is evidenced in multiple studies.  The 24/7 companionship can be seen as an imaginative ‘antidote’ to the modern challenges of social isolation and loneliness.

The scheme is currently being delivered by volunteers with the support of a dedicated Co-ordinator in three districts close to our Charity; Blaby, Oadby and Wigston and Hinckley and Bosworth and works in conjunction with professional referral partners such as social services and the local authority.

 It has been independently evaluated by The School of Veterinary Medicine and Science at the University of Nottingham.  It is hoped that the scheme will become an on-going outreach initiative managed by LAA.