Adopting a Senior Pet

Many potential adopters come into the shelter with the desire to go home with a brand new puppy or kitten. However, puppies and kittens are not the only adoptable pets we have available. There always seems to be at least one pair of old eyes with a graying muzzle looking up at you from the kennel. People are sometimes leery of adopting senior pets because of their age, yet there are so many benefits to adopting an older animal.

1. Typically senior pets are already housetrained, and once they adjust to your family’s unique schedule, they’re good to go. 

2. They are less demanding overall, and usually love naps and relaxation due to their mellowed personalities. Seniors are almost always lower maintenance, making them great pets.

3. Seniors are generally well-mannered, with a couple of tricks up their sleeves, and they know not to destroy things. The famous saying “you can’t teach an old dog new tricks” is largely incorrect, to the surprise of many. Older animals are able to focus on the task at hand better than their younger counterparts, due to their longer attention span.

4. When adopting a senior pet, you know exactly what you’re getting. Their behaviors, personalities, and physical size are already set, whereas younger animals may continue to grow in size and change in personality, into something their new family was not prepared for. It’s much easier to choose an animal that fits seamlessly into your family when you can already see their individual personality.

When walking into a shelter to find a new furry family member, please consider opening your hearts to a senior pet. They are old enough to know that you’re giving them a second chance at a happy life, and they will be eternally grateful and full of love for that choice.