Older adults and their furry friends
My name is Neal Willey, and I serve as the nutrition and wellness coordinator at Senior Solutions, which provides services throughout Windsor and Windham counties. In my work, I regularly see how deeply pets are woven into the daily lives of the older adults we serve. For many, a pet offers companionship, routine, comfort, and a sense of purpose—supports that often grow more important with age.
The Foxy Fund was created to help older adults who need assistance caring for their pets. The program provides pet food to clients enrolled in Meals on Wheels and offers financial support for unexpected veterinary or pet-related expenses. By addressing these practical challenges, the Foxy Fund helps seniors continue caring for their animals during times when resources may be limited.
For many people, the presence of a pet brings a familiar rhythm to the day— the wag of a tail at the door or the quiet purr of a cat close by. These small, everyday moments can offer consistency and reassurance, particularly for older adults who may be experiencing changes in health, mobility, or social connection. The relationship between a person and their pet often supports both emotional well-being and daily structure.
Programs like the Foxy Fund reflect an understanding that well-being is shaped by more than medical care or nutrition alone. By supporting the human–animal bond, the fund helps older adults maintain an important source of stability and connection while also promoting the health and well-being of their pets. To learn more or support this program, please visit our website at http://www.seniorsolutionsvt.org/services/pet-assistance/.