Pet Bytes: The Toll of Economic Euthanasia on Seniors

Americans aged 65+ comprise over 17% of the population, and nearly 70% of those aged 50+ have pets. For seniors, companion animals offer more than love—they bring structure, emotional support, and purpose. But with age often comes financial strain.

Around 24 million older adults rely solely on Social Security. When pets need urgent care, fixed incomes can force painful decisions. Economic euthanasia—the loss of a pet due to unaffordable but treatable conditions—can be devastating, especially for seniors already coping with other losses.

Many older pet guardians experience intense guilt and grief when financial hardship shortens a beloved animal’s life. As this population grows, so does the need for support—no one should face this heartbreaking choice alone.