The Benefits Of Adopting A Senior Pet (During Adopt A Senior Pet Month)
November is “Adopt A Senior pet” month and before the month ends I wanted to acknowledge the INCREDIBLE benefits of adopting a senior pet!
I have adopted both puppies and older dogs. I can tell you an older dog is MUCH easier to bring into your household, EVEN with an existing dog and busy lifestyle. A dog can be considered a senior at seven years of age, which means that they may have slowed down a bit, but most dogs still have considerable energy and a perfect combination of as I call it…”active, yet settles down nicely” . In fact, I have found that an older dog that enters a new home usually settles in much quicker than a puppy, that needs constant care and attention. Adopting my late dog Star (who was around 6 when I got her) was the best thing I ever did and the easiest transition ever made with a new pet in the home. Some people ask “Why would a senior dog need to be rehomed”? “Why would they end up in a shelter”? Older pets often end up in shelters because of the loss of an owner, an owner becoming too ill to care for their pet and having no other family member available to step up, sometimes it’s a divorce or new baby. There is nothing wrong with older dogs …in fact- the benefits are fantastic.
Older dogs don’t need a year of puppy training. While they make take time to adhere to your schedule and their new surroundings, it’s a way quicker transition.
Older dogs are mellow and usually love their quiet time in a warm bed. No bouncing off the walls!
Older dogs have developed personalities. You know their likes and dislikes, based on their time with their previous owners, and shelter staff evaluations.
Older dogs are GREAT for older folks who may not want the 15 year commitment of a pet.
Older pets are so grateful for a second chance. You can just feel it.
Some of our shelter experts weigh in about the wonderful experience of adopting a senior-
Sunny Nowel from Randolph Regional Animal Shelter told me “The obvious benefit is you are getting an animal that you will know what to expect, personality, behaviors, especially if you are looking for a low key companion.” – “I have met many adopters that only stick to adopting senior cats or dogs because they understand the need of providing a safe, loving home for these animals so they don’t have to sit in shelters”.
Tammy Smith founder of Northstar Pet Rescue added ” You typically know what you’re getting at the outset in terms of temperament and demeanor” , “less demanding of your time and energy”, “less training involving chewing and puppy behaviors, however who ever said you can’t teach an old dog new trick is wrong….they are far more easier to train and are more focused.”!
Both Sunny and Tammy agreed- “Senior pets genuinely seem more appreciative of their second chance” and “Some say they could never adopt an older pet because they won’t get enough time, however if you’ve ever taken an older pet the sense of gratitude you receive from them providing a selfless act of kindness and compassion is beyond measure.”
I completely agree! Frosted Faces RULE!
Btw- this week on WDHA’s Rock N’ Ruff we have two fantastic seniors up for adoption from Northstar Pet Rescue– Sophie and Scrappy – Video here- Rock N’ Ruff with Sophie and Scrappy.
Thanks friends!
Terrie Carr
