Golden Buddies is a new pilot program in partnership with the Mitchell County Senior Center, and is designed to connect isolated seniors in our community with pets.

Seniors are the largest and fastest growing group in Mitchell County according to the 2020 US Census. They are also one of the most vulnerable parts of our community, especially those individuals who live in the more remote parts of our rural Appalachian county. Often transportation, food costs, and a fixed income are barriers to pet ownership and all the health benefits that owning a cat or dog can bring.

Senior animals are the least likely to be adopted, and often have to be transported away from Mitchell County to find placement. These dogs and cats will be our priority for placement with the Golden Buddies program.

Our Buddies are specially trained volunteers who take potential companion pets on field trips to visit participating seniors. Seniors can elect to have the animals stay for a sleepover, a long term foster, or adopt.

Buddies check in with seniors and their animals every week, delivering food and facilitating vet care or resource connections as needed.

If you are reading this, you are either a Buddy, potential Buddy or a sponsor. Thank you for being part of this very important project.

Questions? Please email director@mitchellcountyanimalrescue.org