MIAMI (CBSMiami) — Two county agencies have teamed up to implement a new program that provides lifelong companionship for independently living seniors while providing homes for abandoned dogs and cats.

The Senior PAWS (Senior Pet Adoption for Wellness and Support) program matches shelter pets with independently living seniors who are interested in owning a pet.

The Miami-Dade Animal Services Department, along with the county’s Community Action and Human Services Department, teamed up to create the Senior PAWS program.

Senior citizens will receive their new pets during a special adoption ceremony at the first adoption event, which will take place at 10:00 a.m. on Tuesday.

The event will be held at the Covenant Palms Senior Center located at 8400 NW 25^th Avenue in Miami.  It coincides with other events being planned by both departments for National Senior Citizens Day.

“The focus of Senior PAWS is to improve the quality of life for seniors with the benefits that come from owning a pet.  Studies show that individuals benefit from better physical and mental health, as well as fewer doctor visits,” said Lucia Davis-Raiford, Director of the Community Action and Human Services Department.

For additional information about Senior PAWS or other services available for seniors visit us on the web at www.miamidade.gov/socialservices  or call 311.