Catalyst Program

The simple act of having an animal can make a huge difference in the life of a human in need.

The Catalyst program supports that healing connection.

We remove obstacles in the way of someone having a loving pet in their home. Devotion, understanding and companionship are beneficial to humans and animals alike.

1 in 3 older adults feel a sense of isolation but worry about their ability to care for an animal.

Our Catalyst program removes barriers and arranges for whatever assistance is needed then accepts the pet back into our care if it outlives the owner.

Apply to Catalyst program

How it works

The People

Once we've identified a senior companion a volunteer reaches out to learn more about them and discuss the completed application.

The volunteer will want to know what kind of animal they prefer, the age of pet they'd like and the type of assistance they would need to make it possible.

After we have the details we match sponsors, seniors, companions and volunteers to make the adoption happen.

The Perfect Match

All our animals are fully vetted and receive proper medical attention, are vaccinated, altered and microchipped.

The adoption appointment occurs on-site or in the senior's home. Once a match is made, our volunteers help place the animal in the home.

They work to monitor the transition, making it smooth for everyone while the pet is getting settled in.

The Promise

We always match the senior with the right level of support. It may include ongoing vet visit reminders, transportation and help covering costs or regular visits to clean automated litterboxes and food dispensers.

Once an animal is placed they will always have a home.

When a senior can no longer care for a pet for any reason, or when the time comes, our volunteers will receive the pet back into care at The Barn House.

*Ongoing support is available through direct pay by the senior, ongoing gifts from family and friends, community donors, fundraisers and volunteers. We work with each individual to find the best balance without financial worry.

Apply for the program

If you or someone you know sounds like a match for the catalyst program apply below.

We will reach out with additional questions and to talk about next steps.

Apply to Catalyst program

Bea and Lilia (renamed Mia)

Watch the latest senior companion story as ABC 15 highlights a very special companion. Lilia (renamed Mia) was found in a colony on the streets with no owner to be found. She was meant to find Bea.

A place to heal. A place to help. A place to thrive.

Join us in our mission to provide seniors loving companions.

Support the Catalyst program