Silver Paws VIP Program
Gulf Coast Humane Society’s Silver Paws VIP Program is all about giving senior pets that are adopted from the Gulf Coast Humane Society shelter, the second chance they deserve—by connecting them with individuals and communities who can offer companionship, comfort, and care.
Thanks to generous funding from United Way, the Silver Paws VIP Program is open to adopters and fosters who are 65 years of age or older, including those living in 55+ communities and assisted living facilities. Our goal is to help senior pets (ages 7 and up) find their way into warm, loving environments—whether through permanent adoption or temporary fostering.
Removing the Barriers to Adoption
Senior pets are often overlooked in shelters because of concerns about the cost of future medical care. That’s where this program steps in. Adopters in the Silver Paws VIP Program receive waived adoption fees and lifetime veterinary care through Gulf Coast Humane Society Veterinary clinic—at no cost. This includes:
These thoughtful, well-mannered pets often thrive in senior households, matching the pace and companionship needs of older adults beautifully. Many of our current VIP adopters live in senior communities and assisted living facilities—and their pets have become beloved members of the community.
Community-Based Fostering
In addition to adoption, we also work with independent living and assisted living communities to place pets in foster care settings. These short- or long-term foster arrangements provide enrichment for residents and relief for shelter pets who may struggle in a kennel environment. In some cases, the fostered pet becomes such an important part of the community that one of the residents chooses to adopt!
GCHS supplies all food, medical care, and support for foster pets, making this a rewarding and low-barrier way for individuals or facilities to participate.
A Win-Win for Pets and People
Whether you’re ready to adopt a senior pet or your community is interested in fostering, the Silver Paws VIP Program offers a beautiful way to give back—and receive so much in return.
Want to learn more or explore a partnership?
Email us at: [email protected] or visit the shelter to meet the pets currently available through the program
Gulf Coast Humane Society is dedicated to being a safe haven for pets in need by providing medical care, promoting adoptions, and nurturing the bond between pets and people in Southwest Florida.
Our shelter does not receive any federal, state, or county funding and no funding from the Humane Society of the United States or ASPCA. We rely solely on donations, grants, bequests, and fundraising events to further our mission as stated above.
We are the most tenured 501(c)3 nonprofit, no-kill, animal welfare organization established in 1947 in Southwest Florida.
