First things first — you are awesome! Deciding to adopt an animal companion is a huge and admirable step.

The next step is finding the perfect animal friend for you. In some cases, adopters look online using tools like Petfinder and find the exact animal friend they’ve been searching for, or they enter their local animal shelter with a general idea in mind. No matter the method you use, we hope you’ll consider adopting a senior animal companion.

Similar to human adoptions, older animals tend to be overlooked. Don’t let their age fool you; senior animals have plenty to offer a loving family.

Save Time and Energy on Training

Training is usually not the most fun part of adopting an animal friend as it takes a lot of energy and trial and error. A benefit of choosing a mature animal companion is that they are more likely to have been trained by a previous family. Your preferences may differ from theirs, of course, which means there may be some adjustments. But you’ll still have the luxury of bringing them home without having to worry (as much) about potty accidents or finding them chewing on your favorite shoes.

Relax With Someone Who Fits Your Lifestyle

It’s crucial to find an animal friend who meshes well with your personality and lifestyle. You may not be looking to go jogging or play a rigorous game of catch together. If you’re more interested in a less energetic animal who loves cuddles, naps, and happily lying by your side as you read the latest MUTTS strip, an older animal may be perfect for you.

Also, unlike a new puppy or kitten, an older animal is often more suited to be under less supervision; this is ideal if you would like to leave them free to roam while running errands.

Adopt a Senior Animal — and Save Their Life

Since senior animals are not typically the first choice for adopters, shelters become overcrowded with them. Sadly, that puts these animals at higher risk. By adopting a senior animal, you’ll be giving them another shot at a forever home and a chance to live a happy life for the rest of their days. These animals may be mature, but they are also valuable, loving, and compassionate. Don’t overlook them, and they’ll love you for life.

 

Comments (3)

Hi, Joan! Thank you for your support, and we wish you well on finding an awesome senior dog!

Brittany Turner

My Doctor suggested I get a dog for companionship, as well as having a watchdog. I’ve thought an older dog would be better, so I (a Senior) would be in a better position in it’s training and for a new home.
I enjoy your comics so much, as there is so much “heart” in them.

Joan Payne

We lost our golden a year and a half ago and our doodle last week. While we are still very much grieving, everyone asks if we will be getting a new dog. Funny-we never think to ask if they will be replacing their human companion right away after a death… Anyway, our response is always that we will know when it is time and our dog comes along. And then today here was this on my Facebook feed. Maybe Maverick and Puka think its time to share our love again??

Heather