A senior pet is rarely the first choice among those looking to adopt from a shelter. Most tend to go for younger ones—such as cute kittens and playful puppies—and shy away from grown-up or mature ones.
The common misconception is that all senior pets have either a health or behavioral problem that forced their previous owner to surrender them to a shelter. The truth is, there are many other reasons why an adult pet ends up in a shelter. For instance, their owner may not have been able to care for them any longer due to a major lifestyle change (e.g., new baby, a move, loss of a job). Or perhaps the owner passed away, and no one’s left to look after them.
So yes, there are many active and healthy senior pets in need of a home. They may be over the age of five, but they can still make for great household pets, sometimes even better than young adoptees. Here’s why.
They’re Less Demanding
Senior pets have “been there, done that.” The search-and-destroy phase is over, so it’s unlikely they’ll be destructive around your home or with your belongings. This means you can leave the house without worrying that you’ll be returning to a messy or chaotic home.
As they’ve lived in a similar setting before, senior pets are house-trained and know they’re expected to follow certain rules. For instance, with their previous litter-box training, getting them to follow the potty rules in their new home should be easy and can be done in one or two days (or if you’re lucky, in only a matter of hours).
Not only are they independent and disciplined, but senior pets also adapt fast. The key is to establish a routine—including a feeding, grooming, and exercise schedule—that will help them settle and feel comfortable in your home.
Besides house manners, senior pets are often already trained in basic commands. Try “come,” “stay,” “sit,” and “down,” and chances are they will know exactly what to do.
Want to teach him or her new tricks or enroll them in an obedience class? Don’t worry. Older dogs are fast-learners. Compared to puppies, they have a longer attention span and as a result they are more responsive to trainers.
Little to No Surprises
When you bring home a senior pet, it’s pretty clear what you’re in for. Physically, he or she has gone through developmental changes and is a fully grown adult. The color of their coat, their size, how healthy the hips are—what you see is what you get.
Even their demeanor and temperament are established. And chances are he or she’s less energetic and more relaxed than their younger counterparts.
Want a thorough analysis of their behavior and personality? Ask the shelter if they’ve done one, and they’ll provide the information you seek along with history and background.
All this gives you an idea, from the get-go, on how a particular senior pet will fit in your household and lifestyle, making it easier to decide if he or she’s the right match.
Are there certain attributes you’d like your pet to have? Then you can also search for an older dog or cat based on those qualities, say a cat with short hair or a dog who’s cat-friendly.
Instant Companions
With senior pets, you can do things together right away. From taking walks and working out to playing fetch and snuggling at night, an adult pet makes for an amazing partner.
Are there kids in the family? A senior pet tends to be soft and tolerant towards children. As long as he or she doesn’t have a painful condition like arthritis, they can handle some rough handling from young kids without being a safety hazard. You could also get your children involved in taking care of a senior pet by assigning simple tasks that will enable them to take on more responsibility.
Senior pets are also a perfect fit for elderly people. Their relaxed and calm temperament can be very comforting. And because they’re less energetic, senior pets and their owners can go about with their day-to-day activities at the same pace.
Sadly, senior pets are usually the last to find a home. Some languish in shelters. Others are euthanized to make room for younger pets. But as the benefits above show, adult and senior pets are just as adoption-worthy. And opening your heart and home to them can bring unparalleled joy to your household.
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