SCOTTISH Labour will today push for a so-called “paws clause” to let vulnerable elderly and homeless people keep their pets when they find a new roof.
The party said it wanted to work with landlords, care homes and housing providers to make it the norm to allow pets in rented, supported, or temporary accommodation.
Labour said people should have the opportunity to keep their pets as a default, unless there was evidence that an animal was causing a nuisance.
A recent study found one in five older people wish they owned a pet and most older owners rely on their pets for company more than they do their friends, children or neighbours.
Half of older pet owners worry about a future without their animals.
There is also evidence that dogs can help people with dementia maintain their waking, sleeping and eating routines, as well as remind them to take medication.
Labour MSP Claudia Beamish said: “Whether it is having limited choices in rented accommodation, moving into a care home or sheltered housing, or seeking temporary accommodation for the homeless – all of these people should have the right to keep their beloved pets by their side.
“In consultation with landlords, tenants, care home and temporary accommodation providers, and advocate groups, Scottish Labour will assess the possibility of people keeping their pets as default.
“At a recent visit to supported accommodation that permits pets, I saw the heart-warming benefit Mindy the dog brought to the tenants. A pet like Mindy can keep someone fit and get them outside regularly, keep a sense of independence, and provide an invaluable comfort to all.”
Anthea Fraser, a manager at Cowan Court Extra Care Housing in Midlothian, which does allow pets, added: “We want to create a home from home, so if it’s important to an individual to bring their pet, or even to adopt a new pet, we support and enable them to do so.”
Cowan Court tenant and dog-owner Betty McGeachie said: “Being allowed to stay with Mindy is brilliant, it really is. She keeps me fit and everyone loves her. There should be more places like this in the future. Mindy is part of the family.”
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