6 reasons to adopt a senior pet
It’s undeniable: puppies and kittens are adorable. But amongst all the cooing give a thought to the older animals. The sad truth is senior animals are routinely overlooked and often spend the rest of their lives in a shelter waiting for someone to love them. So if you’re looking for a new furry friend why not consider adopting an “over-60” pet? They make great companions for a number of reasons.
Adopting a senior pet can save its life
Most people adopt puppies and kittens, or younger pets. The sad reality is most people won’t even consider adopting a senior pet and when shelters are overcrowded (as unfortunately they so often are), it’s the older animals that are the first to be euthanised. So when you’re adopting a senior pet, you are truly saving their life.
Senior pets are most in need of homes
Many older pets in shelters were once owned and loved by someone. For whatever reasons, they were given up and abandoned at shelters. They are the most in need of a better life and a loving companion.
Related link: Why having a pet is SO good for you
Older pets are not necessarily “problem animals”
Many people tend to think that senior animals are in shelters because there is something wrong with them. But that’s not true – people often give up their pets that have nothing to do with behaviour or temperament. It’s usually lifestyle choices that leave pets abandoned: owners realise the responsibility, allergies, death, or moving overseas.
Seniors pets make instant companions
Senior animals tend to be house trained and have years of experience under their belt. They need little time to settle in. Dogs are ready to go for walks (no leash training required) and cats are ready to be your snuggle buddy. They’ve had a family before so they’re ready to embrace a new one again with devotion and love.
What you see is what you get
Older animals are open books – they’ve developed their personality and temperament so you will know if they’ll fit into your family or not. This makes it easier to find the right pet for you.
You won’t bite off more than you can chew
Many over-60s have lost their pets and may yearn for another furry friend but hold back in worry about what will happen in the years to come. Adopting a senior pet isn’t a less serious commitment but it can be a shorter one. Plus, who’s better to accompany you in your golden years than a senior pet?
Related links:
Adopting a dog cured my depression
Fostering a pet: everything you need to know
I’ve rented out my home and become a pet minder