Joys of Older Dogs
What is a Senior Dog?
Veterinarians will categorize a dog as a “senior” around the age of 7, however, it all really depends on the size of the dog and their average lifespan. Shelter dogs as young as 5 are sometimes looked at as “senior” and will spend more time waiting for a family to adopt them. Senior dogs can be looked at by potential adopters as “problem dogs” that were surrendered by owners when they actually end up in animal shelters for a variety of other reasons. Some of those reasons could be the death of an owner, work, moving to a place that doesn’t allow dogs, a new baby, allergies, or just not enough time for a dog. Whatever the reason, it is very possible it’s not due to any behavioral issues.
Why Should I Adopt a Senior Dog?
Here are just some of the reasons to adopt a senior dog.
Potty Trained: Often times senior dogs are already potty trained. This means less time worrying about and cleaning up accidents. It also means no midnight wake-ups or early morning rises to let out a puppy who is unable to hold it!
Lessons Learned: They often have already learned many of life’s lessons like shoes are not chewed toys.
Cuddle Buddy: Senior dogs love a good walk or adventure but also enjoy sleeping and cuddling for a lazy day on the couch! Their energy level will often mimic yours for the day.
Adjust More Easily: Older dogs are more mellow and often adjust more easily to changes so when you adopt an older dog they will fall into your routine more easily than a puppy or younger dog.
Fully Grown: A puppy can grow to be much larger than you expect or can develop fur that requires more maintenance, but with a senior dog, they are what you see. You don’t have to plan for them to get any bigger (so long as you are feeding them per your veterinarian’s instruction)
You’ll Save a Life: Senior dogs are at risk for euthanasia due to how long it takes for them to get adopted. If you decide to adopt a senior dog not only will you be rewarded with the knowledge of saving a life, but they will reward you with unwavering love knowing they’ve received a second chance.