Older Nebraskans struggling to care for their pets will soon see relief with a new partnership between the Eastern Nebraska Office on Aging and Leash.
With the help of a grant received through Meals on Wheels America and PetSmart Charities, the Eastern Nebraska Office on Aging and Leash Pet Transportation are partnering together to offer veterinary and other pet services, along with transportation for the pet to services for individuals receiving ENOA services.
The Eastern Nebraska Office on Aging serves families in Douglas, Sarpy, Dodge, Cass and Washington counties. ENOA’s role is to ensure older adults within its region have access to a continuum of services that enable them to remain active, independent and in their own homes for as long as possible.
The first of its kind, Leash is a pick-up and drop-off ride and pet taxi service exclusively for pets. Leash drives dogs and cats to and from daily appointments and activities with the aim of making pet ownership more convenient and accessible. Leash currently serves pet owners in the Omaha, Des Moines and Kansas City markets.
“We started Leash with the goal of not only making pet ownership more convenient but making pet ownership more accessible for those who lack transportation,” Marty Sampson, founder of Leash, said in a news release. “We believe transportation should not be a barrier to pet ownership or providing care for pets. We are excited about this partnership with ENOA because it aligns with our true mission.”
Transporting pets is a barrier many senior pets owners face. Many factors, like the cost of maintaining a vehicle to the physical requirements to getting a pet in a car, impact an older person’s ability to take their pet to and from necessary services.
In addition, a study from the University of Alabama at Birmingham says drivers over the age of 70 with a pet in the car have twice the risk of getting into an accident.
“ENOA is thrilled to partner with Leash Pet Transportation to provide this essential service to our community’s older pet owners,” Trish Bergman, executive director of ENOA, said in the release. “We understand the challenges that many seniors face when it comes to caring for their beloved pets, and transportation should never be a barrier to ensuring their pets receive the care they need. This partnership aligns perfectly with our mission to support older adults in maintaining their independence and the well-being of their animal companions.”
For more information on the Eastern Nebraska Office on Aging (ENOA) and the services provided, contact ENOA at 402-444-6536.
