When most people make the decision to adopt a dog, they usually want a puppy or a younger dog, the thought of adopting an older dog who is in their twilight years probably doesn’t even cross their minds, yet there are so many of them that find themselves in rescue centers and kennels through no fault of their own that would make the perfect addition to your family, Here are some reasons why a senior dogs adoption could be right for you.
Adopting a dog
OK so you have made the decision to expand your family, and welcome a canine companion into your home, you know that rescue centers are overrun with dogs looking for their forever homes, so you have decided that is the route you will take.
You walk past the rows of kennels full of dogs of different shapes, sizes and colours, looking for one that stands out to you, a puppy excitedly jumps at the kennel door jumping up and down and wagging it’s tail so fast it’s a blur. Straight away you make a beeline for it, but did you notice in the kennel next door, that older gentle sad looking dog sitting in the corner? chances are you didn’t, and neither do a lot of people as most people when adopting a dog want that cute, hyperactive little puppy. What few people appreciate though is the fact that the gentle sad looking senior dog in the next kennel, would be much easier to look after and much more rewarding to take care of.
Why People Don’t Usually Adopt Senior Dogs
There are a lot of Misconceptions around adopting an older dog. One of the main ones is that the dog won’t live as long as that younger puppy, this is true, but how rewarding would it be to think that whatever time that dog does have left, it has the best life you can possibly give it, and most of all the life it truly deserves.
Another reason people give is that older dogs can be more of a financial burden, and will require a lot of medical attention, but that could be the case for any dog no matter what it’s age. That cute puppy may have ongoing health issues through it’s life that don’t show up at first, because it is young and playful now doesn’t guarantee perfect health.
Some people believe that senior dogs are less likely to bond with their new owners, and in some cases this can be true, as it can depend on the background the dog has had before, but this is not the case for a lot of older dogs, they just need time to adjust to their new surroundings and their new family, and learn to trust them, and in time they can build a close bond. Once they have established a level of trust with you, the bond will come and it will be a strong one.
Why You Should Adopt A Senior Dog
There are so many good reasons for considering a senior dogs adoption, for one they are a lot less trouble to look after. Older dogs don’t have the energy of that young crazy puppy, although don’t get me wrong many senior dogs – senior being from the age of 7 and above still have plenty of years and a lot of energy left to spend, my own 8 year old Alaskan Malamute is still as boisterous now as she was as a pup with no signs of slowing up anytime soon. But the months of having to house train or buy a new sofa cause your other one has gotten chewed up, is rarely an issue with and older dog as it is with a puppy.
You may also find that you enjoy the calmer, more tolerant nature of an older dog. Senior dogs can make great pets if you have children, as for one they do not demand as much of your time as a puppy would, therefore allowing more time to focus on the children, and they are also more used to human interaction, so can be more patient with younger children, while providing comfort and companionship to an adult.
Older dogs are less likely to jump up people when they come for a visit, and have more skills than a younger dog to adapt to your routine and way of life.
You will also find that adopted senior dogs seem to understand that they have been given another chance at a good life. And they will be eager to reward you for that. They tend to be very loyal and dedicated to their owners. They are great for older people to who are looking for a companion. Adopting a senior dog offers an ideal pet, because the person taking them on won’t have to worry like they would taking on a dog that could live for 14 or more years that they won’t be able to care for it as they get older too.
Finally, adopting a senior dog is a selfless act of love. All dogs deserve a loving home, but senior dogs are especially entitled to one that is fit for their retirement.
Adopting A Senior Dog Was The Best Thing I Ever Did
Adopting a senior dog, is without a doubt, a very rewarding experience. Not only would you get a very loyal companion, you also get a dog that will provide you with unconditional love for however long it has left. One of the best dogs I have ever had the pleasure of sharing my life with was a senior dog, she had been badly treated and discarded when she became too old and she had a few health issues, but as soon as I saw her I loved her, and we had 3 great years together and I was so glad I could make those 3 years the best years of her life after the one she had had before.
Every dog should have love and a sofa to call their own no matter what their age, so please if you are considering adopting a rescue don’t just pass by that old dog sitting in the corner, you may have just passed by the best friend you could ever have.
We would really love to hear your stories of your rescue dogs, and golden oldies, please feel free to share below.
