Monmouth SPCA Invites Seniors To Snuggle Pets, Plus Pet Loss Support Group

EATONTOWN, NJ — Monmouth County SPCA will launch two new programs this fall: Senior Snuggle Sundays and Memory Circle: A pet bereavement group.

Both programs will be offered free of charge. Anyone can attend either session during the times listed below; there is no sign-up needed in advance. Simply show up!

Subscribe

Both will be held at the Monmouth County SPCA shelter in Eatontown. 260 Wall St, Eatontown, NJ 07724

Senior Snuggle Sundays: Beginning September 27 from 2-4 p.m., Senior Snuggle Sundays will invite senior citizens to enjoy a relaxing afternoon interacting with shelter pets and MCSPCA therapy dogs. Participants will have the opportunity to pet, cuddle and enjoy gentle play with the animals while spending time in a warm and welcoming environment.

Staff and volunteers will be available throughout each session to provide lively conversation, assistance and companionship.

The program will continue monthly on the fourth Sunday.

Memory Circle: Pet Bereavement Group: The MCSPCA's Memory Circle will provide an opportunity for participants to acknowledge and explore pet-related grief, share their experiences, feel heard and honor the animals who have been an important part of their lives.

The first meeting will be from 6-7 p.m. October 27. The group will meet monthly on the fourth Tuesday.

Whether a loss occurred recently or decades ago, the group recognizes that pet grief often continues to live in the present. The grief that follows a pet's passing is a unique kind of loss – one deeply understood by those who have lived it.

The program was conceptualized and will be led by MCSPCA volunteer T.J. Flanagan, whose own experience following the loss of his beloved dog inspired him to create a dedicated support group. Flanagan observed that grieving the loss of an animal can sometimes feel isolating. After a great deal of research on pet bereavement, Flanagan approached Monmouth County SPCA leadership with the idea of creating a space where people experiencing similar feelings could come together.

"Senior Snuggle Sundays" holds special meaning for MCSPCA development director and associate director Barbara Lovell:

"When my own father's health began declining both physically and cognitively, the delight he experienced cradling a puppy in his arms, smiling from ear to ear as he sang to it was truly moving," she said. "Watching those sweet moments made me wish I could somehow bottle that happiness and share it with other folks my dad's age facing similar challenges."