Heart for seniors and dog-sitting

Ellen Knaap is already waiting for me at our meeting spot: A lady with an open gaze and cheerful, red curls. Without hesitation, I use ‘je’ and ‘jij’ (informal ‘you’ in Dutch). She loves dogs, which is why she volunteers for Stichting OOPOEH: she helps seniors get more exercise and companionship by connecting them with a sweet dog to look after in the neighborhood.

55-plussers for whom full care for a dog is too much can still enjoy the companionship of a pet. The ‘dating’ happens through the website; OOPOEH checks if owner plus pet and senior are a good match and mediates the contact. For seniors without internet, OOPOEH mediates by phone. “I see many people flourish through this volunteer work,” says Ellen. “And the pet owners enjoy that someone else is walking their dog.”

Bess and Tesla

Ellen is chronically ill and cannot have a pet of her own. Through the OOPOEH foundation, she found a dog-sitting opportunity with Bess, a golden retriever who loved music. “Once I played meditation music,” Ellen recalls, “and Bess laid on the floor with her head tilted listening.” Bess’s owners, a couple, became her friends. When it was time to put Bess to sleep, Ellen was able to say goodbye beforehand. It was a difficult moment, but she cherishes fond memories. Now Ellen walks around the Kinkerbuurt with Tesla, a small breed dog. “When I walk around the neighborhood without Tesla, everyone asks where he is.”

Good at talking

“Connection is important to me. Being part of society, as a volunteer and with friends.” Ellen enjoys gathering with colleagues, such as having lunch in the courtyard of OOPOEH on Keizersgracht in the summer. “Socializing and developing your abilities, that’s the importance of volunteering for me.” With fellow volunteers, she keeps an eye on seniors with a care dog. Initially, contact is made after three months, then every year. If necessary, OOPOEH provides support in communicating with the dog owners. The work suits Ellen perfectly. She is good at talking. “Maintaining contact with seniors who are ill or sad doesn’t drain my energy.” This is also part of the work for OOPOEH. Ellen appreciates the guidance from the Foundation. “They look out for me, check on my energy levels. Volunteers who were initially unsure, I have seen them grow. We are regularly appreciated with outings.” Outings are also offered to participating OOPOEHs. Ellen enjoys contributing to the approach.

Babysitting dogs in the spotlight

Ellen’s beloved Tesla accompanies her to the OOPOEH office, to visit family, and to an elderly lady for whom she manages household administration. A photo of the little Marquis dog, a true ‘people’s dog’, is even framed on the mantelpiece. “Taking care of Tesla enriches my life. And I see how he brings joy to other people.”

Walking with dogs as a volunteer can bring a lot to people, and Ellen Knaap contributes to this through the OOPOEH Foundation. A special volunteer activity by a special lady!Interview: Angélique Derks
Photo: Jackie Mulder

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