At Christmas, Remember Benefits of Adopting an Older Pet

As animal shelters continue to exceed maximum capacity, it is a wonderful idea to adopt instead of buying from a pet shop when considering adding a pet to your family. Especially around the holidays, when pets become a top wish list want, consider an already established dog versus the time and commitment of a puppy or kitten.

Most people don’t even consider the benefits of adopting an older pet, so here are a few reasons it’s a really good idea.

Puppies and kittens are undeniably cute. But these little bundles of joy need much more attention and supervision than adult animals. Adopting an animal is a lifetime commitment many people don’t always think about when caught up in the moment. There are many wonderful dogs and cats needing rescue, not just the adorable puppies and kittens.

Most adult pets are already housetrained, making them perfect for those who do not have the time to housetrain or the energy level necessary for a younger pet. Older pets are much more calm and mature and therefore make wonderfully peaceful and pleasant companions. Older animals don’t ask for a lot; all they want is a home that provides a good quality of life to live out their remaining years.

Older pets are more convenient and less labor intensive. Older pets have already gone through the destructive phases of adolescence and just want a family to love them. Along with being housetrained, many older pets have already had previous obedience training and may know cues and commands. You can definitely teach an old dog new tricks and, in fact, older dogs have a longer attention span.

With an older pet, you know what you’re getting in terms of size, physical appearance, health, and temperament.

Good nutrition, exercise, and veterinary care are needed at all ages. If you are concerned about the older animal’s health or special needs, you can get a health report from a veterinarian, and many shelter animals come with a health overview.

There are many senior animals that are very deserving of wonderful homes of their own. Older animals appreciate love and attention and quickly learn what’s expected of them to gain and keep that love and attention. By adopting an older pet, you can make a statement about compassion and the value of all life at all ages. You can give that older pet the best years of his life while at the same time bringing a wonderful addition into your family.

Local animal shelters:

Animal Friends of the Valleys
Website

Ramona Human Society
Website

Rescue and Rehome
Website

Sun City K9 Adoptions
Website