Little Jasper proves to be the “paw-fect” companion

“I rang straight up and registered my interest as part of the Senior Pets Program that council has,” Ms Free said.

“I was delighted to get a call soon after to say that he was mine,” she said.

Ms Free said Jasper was already settling in well and exploring his new home.

She said he was proving to be exactly what she was looking for.

“I had a beautiful King Charles cavalier for 13 years that passed away, and I’ve felt so lonely since I lost my husband,” she said.

“All I’ve really been wanting is another companion.”

Community and Client Services director Angela Hays said council’s Senior Pets Program was designed to find loving homes for older abandoned animals with a senior person.

“Council is proud to be able to find homes for these animals with seniors in our community,” Ms Hays said.

“These pets make wonderful companions and provide many health benefits for our seniors.”

Once council has exhausted all other options to find an animal a home, council will contact those registered through the program to see if they’re interested in adopting it.

This will be offered free of charge and seniors will not have to pay for desexing, microchipping or registration fees.

Council will also try to match animals with seniors based on the preferences they look for in a pet.

To register for the program, head to www.mackay.qld.gov.au/seniorpets