HOUSTON COUNTY - According to the most recent census, Houston County Senior Citizens make up about 21 percent of the population and many of them have pets that not only keep them company on a daily basis, but bring them comfort in their Golden Years.

Recognizing that many senior citizens (and residents over 65 years of age) are on a fixed income and simply cannot afford necessary medical care for their beloved pet, Crockett Veterinary Hospital (CVH) has launched the Petcare for Seniors Program.

The "PS: Don't forget the seniors!" fund is available to help seniors and residents over 65 who are on a fixed income pay a portion of the veterinary care expenses for their pet.

Applications for the Petcare for Seniors Program are available at Crockett Veterinary Hospital. Information about the National Dog Day Photo Contest is available at Crockett Veterinary Hospital and both locations of First Community Bank.

"We created the Petcare for Seniors Program because we wanted to help citizens over 65-years of age and who are on a fixed income with providing healthcare for their much loved pets. Many seniors rely on the daily social interaction with their pets as an important part of their lifestyle. We sincerely hope the National Dog Day Photo Contest raises a significant amount of money so we can begin helping the seniors immediately," said Dr. Dan Craven.

The Petcare For Seniors Program was developed to help senior citizens who are over the age of 65 and on a fixed income provide healthcare services for their pets.

The Program is open to all Senior Citizens of Houston County who own pets. Dogs, cats and other small animals are considered pets in the program. Large animals will be considered on an individual basis by the Review Committee.

All information submitted and the names of the senior citizens who benefit from the program will be kept confidential. Any senior citizen participating who would like to participate in media events and release their and/or their pet's name is welcome to do so. Those interested in participating in media events are encouraged to contact CVH Office Manager Julie Newton at (936) 544-2712.

Senior Citizens interested in participating are encouraged to complete and application and e-mail, mail or fax (545-8021) to Crockett Veterinary Hospital. All applications are presented to the Review Committee for the consideration and recommendation.

Once an application has been approved the Senior Citizen will be notified by a member of the Review Committee and an appointment will be set for their pet.

If veterinary care is necessary in an Emergency, the Senior Citizen should ask the attending veterinarian for an application and discuss their desire to participated in the Petcare For Seniors Program during the Emergency visit.

All information submitted and the names of the senior citizens who benefit from the program will be kept confidential. Any senior citizen participating who would like to participate in media events and release their and/or their pet's name is welcome to do so. Those interested in participating in media events are encouraged to contact CVH Office Manager Julie Newton at (936) 544-2712.

Click here to download the application.