In honor of November being Adopt a Senior Pet Month, we decided to share some reasons why you should consider adopting a senior pet.
1) A senior pet may already be trained.
Puppies and new kittens are lots of work. They require lots of time and energy in order to train them so they can learn how to properly interact in the world around them. From potty training to basic obedience, young animals shouldn’t be taken lightly. It’s a lot of work, especially if you already have a busy life. And it can get expensive. Trainers charge hefty fees for their classes, and although they may be worth it, not everyone is prepared or able to drop hundreds of dollars on training for their new pet. On top of getting all the supplies they need; training can seem like an inaccessible thing for many new pet parents. Senior pets are often already potty trained and know basic obedience. They don’t require the same energy and time that a new puppy would require and are easier for busy families to care for from the get-go. They don’t cost as much in the training department, since all you need is a few treats to practice their basic commands every now and then.
2) Senior pets are typically more relaxed.
Without their puppy and kitten energy, senior pets are going to be more calm and relaxed than a younger pet. They don’t typically exhibit the same troublesome behaviors that young animals do, like chewing on shoes or electrical cords. Even without the problem behaviors, young animals need hours of playtime and exercise to ensure that they live a happy, healthy, and fulfilling life. Toys can get expensive quickly too, with most people spending an average of over nine hundred dollars a year on toys, treats, and fun for their pets. Senior pets are more content to lay down and take a nap with you, and don’t normally need the expensive toys that younger animals tend to destroy in seconds. Don't be fooled, senior pets still require daily exercise in order to live happy lives, but they don’t require nearly the amount that younger puppies and kittens do.
3) Senior pets can be more affordable than younger pets.
We’ve already talked about how training and toys can become expensive, but did you know that adoption fees for older animals are typically lower? This is because they are significantly less likely to be adopted than younger animals. This can be offset by vet bills, but most senior animals are still happy with lots of life left to live. And the age at which an animal becomes a senior depends on the species. For example, dogs are typically considered seniors after seven years, but many live long and healthy lives until they’re fifteen or older!
4) There are fewer surprises with a senior animal.
Young animal personalities are still developing. That cute and sweet bundle of fur may develop severe aggression issues. Or anxiety problems. You get the picture. While you do have the opportunity to train young pets from an early age, personality can be the result of many factors, including their breed mix, and won't necessarily be changed completely by training. Senior dogs have already developed their personalities, so there’s no surprise on what kind of pet you’re going to get. You’ll learn their personality at the shelter or when you bring them home. It's also easier to know potential health concerns, as well as grooming necessities with an older dog. This means that you can be more prepared for the future, rather than waiting to see what health problems may present themselves as your pet ages.
5) Senior pets need loving homes.
Many senior pets don’t get the second chance that younger, more desirable pets get. They are less likely to be adopted, meaning that their lives often end in the shelter. They deserve loving homes just as much as younger animals do, if only people would give them the chance. When you adopt a senior pet, you save the life of an animal with so much love and life left to give. Not only will they be grateful and excited for their new home, but you'll feel good knowing you've made a difference.
6) They can teach you how to slow down and enjoy life.
When was the last time you laid down and enjoyed a nap in the sun? Many senior pets enjoy relaxing in a warm and sunny spot. Many are excited about dinner time, and many more are just happy to be with you. Adopting a senior pet can help you learn to slow down and really enjoy the little things in life. Whether it’s by observing them just enjoying their second chance at life, or if it’s by joining them, these senior pets have a lot to teach us about joy.
7) They’ll be more gentle with furniture.
Whether it’s a puppy’s teeth or a kitten’s claws, your couch is likely the target. Younger animals seem to go through a destructive phase, and everything is a target. And they’ll target more than just the couch. Shoes, bookshelves, and curtains aren’t safe either. Thankfully an older pet won’t need to be trained out of these bad habits. Senior animals have had time to learn to not chew on things and are far beyond their destructive phase. Your furniture (and your wallet) will be spared from the destructive nature of a puppy or kitten.
8) They need less supervision.
Take your eyes off your newly adopted kitten for just a few seconds and they’ll interrupt your meeting at the speed of light. A senior pet, on the other hand, can remain perfectly content while you work in your home office or even while you leave to run errands. They’re more than happy to lay on their bed next to you instead of climbing all over you to see what you’re doing. And many senior dogs can be left home alone without the need for a crate. Just be careful when leaving them alone to begin with. Any animal can cause problems when unsupervised, although seniors are much less likely to cause any issues.
9) Old dogs (and cats) can learn new tricks.
Animals can learn tricks at any age. The phrase that you can’t teach an old dog new tricks is quite frankly untrue. Even cats can learn how to sit, stay, and roll over, although they’re admittedly less likely to oblige than their canine counterparts. All it takes is some treats or a toy and fifteen minutes a day for your senior pet to learn how to do some fun tricks like shake and play dead.
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