Submitted by Nilla’s Tub DIY Dog Wash & Health Food Store
Every day, in shelters all across the country, senior animals are passed over by prospective pet owners. Why? Some people are looking for the energy of a new puppy or feel older dogs offer families too little time. The truth is, providing a new home for an older animal may bring you a level of companionship you never imagined.
It’s a fact that puppies and kittens get adopted first and older shelter pets have a higher likelihood of being euthanized. If you’re considering adoption, there are great reasons to choose a more mature pet. Older animals can be just as cute and lovable as their younger counterparts. In fact, they often come with many wonderful qualities that take years to develop in younger animals.
Here are a few benefits to consider as you’re looking for a forever friend:
Saving a life
It’s no secret that senior pets are at a disadvantage in shelters. Not only do they have a lower likelihood of adoption, they are also more prone to depression and confusion as a result of their new environment. Consider how they got there; more often than not, a senior animal ends up in a shelter due to owner surrender. It could be an older owner’s declining health, an unforeseen move, or a sudden change in financial situation. Still, these are wonderful, loving animals that simply had no place to go. By choosing to adopt a senior pet, you’re providing a second chance at life and, with that, can come a lot of fulfillment.
Say “so long” to training
Lucky for you, the majority of senior animals have already learned the fundamentals — everything from toilet training to various commands to leash walking. Not having to spend weeks and weeks on training can be a valuable perk of adopting a senior pet. However, should you want to teach an older dog a new trick, you’re in luck. Animals can be trained at any age; in fact, more mature animals may have a longer attention span, so you may actually find it easier to teach your senior pet something new.
What you see is what you get
Adopting an older pet means its size and temperament are established, increasing your chance of finding the perfect companion for your household. Have a cat? No problem as many senior dogs have already lived in a home with felines.
Lots of love, less destruction
Senior pets are typically well past the search-and-destroy phase, minimizing the possibility of unwanted accidents and bad behavior.
Something for everyone
The mellow disposition of a senior animal makes them a great companion for people of all ages. Their lower energy level is often a perfect fit for the elderly, while their calm presence can be great for families with children.
Wonderful years ahead
Do not let the shorter lifespan of an older pet keep you from adopting one. Depending on the breed, a dog of seven or eight years may have at least as many good years left ahead, and most breeds of domestic cats can easily live to be 15 or older. It’s also important to note that while veterinary attention and medication are needed for animals of all ages, old age doesn’t necessarily mean higher costs.
For more information on adopting a dog there are many local organizations that can help, including McLean County Animal Control, www.mcleancountyil.gov/animalcontrol; The Humane Society of Central Illinois, http://www.hscipets.org; or Wishbone Canine Rescue, www.wishbonecaninerescue.org.
Nilla’s Tub DIY Dog Wash and Health Food Store for Dogs and Cats, located at 211 Landmark Dr. in Normal, holds regular “pawdicure” and “spaw” days to promote adoptions from our local rescue organizations. They have everything you need to bathe and groom your furry friend in a fun, relaxing environment and also offer a large selection of dietary supplements, treats, and quality food including raw, dehydrated raw, canned and kibble. No appointment necessary, call 309-451-9274 or visit them online at www.NillasTub.com.