Although 2020 was a “ruff” year for everyone, one of the programs we piloted last year made a purrrrfectly wonderful impact for several in our community. Through a grant funded by Meals on Wheels America, Aging Ahead partnered with local nonprofit, The Wet Nose Project (TWNP), to help alleviate the cost burden of caring for pets by implementing a small pilot program, Whiskers on Wheels. The Wet Nose Project had a specific interest in partnering with Aging Ahead after delivering pet food to a Meals on Wheels (MOW) recipient who admitted running out of pet food and feeding her furry friend with her MOW meal. When Tracy, with TWNP shared this story with us, we knew this partnership was needed by the community we serve.
Whiskers on Wheels was piloted to MOW recipients living in House Springs, Affton, South County, and St. Clair. Overall, the program helped 79 individuals and 99 pets (61 dogs, 37 cats, and 1 bird)! Along with monthly pet food deliveries, Whiskers on Wheels also provided learning materials for participants on how to better care for their furry friends. The Wet Nose Project also helped facilitate a successful shelter adoption to one of our participants, “I lost my dog two years ago from cancer. When I found out about this program, I asked about adoption and was led to the sweetest rescue Chihuahua called Willow. I am so grateful to this program for helping me and Willow. I am smiling again!”
Survey results showed participants in the Whiskers on Wheels program feel less lonely thanks to their pets. The surveys also showed a significant decrease in stress and strain on their budgets by participating in the program. Notably, more than 30% of participants said that their pets help them feel more connected to others and that is news that makes us all want to wag our tails. 😊 If you would like to donate or volunteer to support Aging Ahead and critical programs like Whiskers on Wheels, please visit us at for more information on The Wet Nose Project, please visit: https://wetnoseproject.org/
Comments 2
Linda Rands
I am interested in volunteering for Meals on Wheels and Whiskers on Wheels. How do I get more information? Thank you so much.
Stephanie Patrick
Thank you for the interest in Meals on Wheels and Whiskers on Wheels, to get more information please email our Volunteer Coordinator Laura at lconners@agingahead.org.