Many of us are aware of the health benefits associated with pet ownership for seniors. They include lower blood pressure than non-pet owners, reduced chances of depression and loneliness as well as eased anxiety. However, a recent study published in JAMA Surgery indicates that walking leashed dogs can be risky business for seniors—women in particular. Researchers from the University of Pennsylvania found that seniors 65 and older with injuries linked to walking leashed dogs increased from 1,671 in 2004 to just shy of 4,400 in 2017. Nearly 80 percent of those who suffered injuries were women. The most common injury was a fractured hip followed by injuries to the wrist and upper arm. More than 28 percent of the injured seniors required hospitalization. As many of us know any injury later in life can be serious, but a fractured hip can have dire consequences for seniors. The Care Concierge is a safe solution for seniors who enjoy the independence of walking their own dogs but would benefit from a companion who can keep both safe. Give us a call. We would be happy to help.