November is Adopt a Senior Pet Month!

Older animals are sadly often passed up for kittens and puppies in shelters, but the benefits of adopting a senior animal are countless. Keep reading for reasons why adopting a senior a pet is not only easier, but sometimes more rewarding!

Older Dogs Are Usually Already Trained
Many adult dogs up for adoption have spent years living with a family and are accustomed to being around people. Some have been through obedience training and know basic commands, and many are house trained. It may take only a few hours or a week or two for an adopted senior dog to get comfortable and learn a routine in their new home, but the acclimation period won—t be nearly as long as it would be with a new puppy. An older dog is still able to learn new tricks and commands and, with a greater attention span than a puppy.

You Know What You Are Getting
Have you ever chosen a cute little “lab-shepherd” mix only to have it grow into a Great Dane? When you adopt a senior dog, there are no surprises about his final size, color and type of coat. You will also know about any medical conditions your pet might have, such as failing eyesight or bad hips.

Older Pets Are Usually Calmer
Since an adult dog has an established demeanor and temperament, you can get a pretty good idea of how he will fit in with your family and any other pets. An older dog has typically outgrown the search-and-destroy phase, so your slippers and furniture will be safer than if you chose a puppy. The lower energy level means the pet will be more content to have longer periods of quiet time than high-energy activity. Older cats are already litter box trained, mellow in most cases, and much less destructive than a kitten.

Older Pets Are Not Always The Problem
There are a number of reasons senior dogs and cats wind up in shelters, and very few of them are the fault of the animal. A move, new baby, allergies, change in work schedule, even death of the owner can lead to a well-loved pet being put up for adoption. These precious animals, confused as to why they are suddenly uprooted and separated from their family, need new homes just as badly as the younger animals.

Portions of this article taken from: https://www.southernliving.com/culture/pets/senior-pet-rescue