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The Best Pets for Senior Citizens Pets can be a great source of joy to all of us and can be particularly great companions for senior citizens. Dogs can help people exercise and spend time outdoors, while cats provide calming companionship to senior citizens who spend plenty of time indoors. Birds, fish, as well as other smaller pets also offer companionship and help people keep a routine at home. So what types of pets are best for seniors? Dogs As dogs are naturally hyperactive, they help their owners engage in more physical activity. Walking your dog for 10 minutes daily can help you work toward achieving 150 minutes of aerobic exercise weekly, which is recommended by CDC. Moreover, walking your dog will allow you to socialize with those who are also walking their dogs. Good dogs for senior citizens include: Beagle Tibetan Spaniel Scottish Terrier Miniature/toy versions of American Eskimo Dog Lowchens Cats Cats generally make good pets for seniors, since they’re typically less destructive and smaller than many breeds of dogs. They also don’t need to be walked. Cats can easily adapt to new environments, which makes them perfect companions for those who like to move or travel a lot. If you want your cat to remain indoors all the time, however, be aware that not all cat breeds are suited to this. The best breeds to keep indoors include: Himalayan Cat Sphynx Cat Cornish Rex Persian Cat Ragdoll Small Birds Want a pet that helps relieve stress and has no fur? Well, choose fish. Simply watching fish swim around an aquarium or fishbowl can help you reduce stress. No wonder so many dental clinics keep fish in their waiting rooms! Fish Small birds like cockatiels and parakeets are great pets for oldies who like a little bit of noise at home or those who live alone. Birds allow seniors the chance to talk, teach and nurture. With a little bit of time and attention, you can teach your parakeet to speak or whistle. If you’re searching for a pet to give you unconditional love and companionship in your old age, consider any of these pets.