Are you considering adding a furry friend to your family? Have you thought about adopting a senior pet? While puppies and kittens may be cute and irresistible, there are numerous benefits to adopting an older pet. In this blog post, we'll explore the many reasons why adopting a senior pet is a wonderful choice and how it can deeply enrich your life.
How Old is Senior?
First of all, let's clarify what we mean by a senior pet. Typically, these pets are seven years of age or older. However, this can vary depending on the breed and species. Unfortunately, senior pets are often overlooked in shelters and rescue centers in favour of younger animals. We think this is such a shame! Senior pets have so much to offer and make excellent companions.
Benefits of Adopting a Senior Pet
One of the biggest benefits of adopting a senior pet is that they are often already partially if not fully trained. Unlike puppies and kittens, who need to be housebroken and taught basic commands, senior cats and dogs have years of experience and training under their belts. They are often already housebroken, know basic commands, and have good manners. This means less work and frustration for you as a pet owner and a smoother transition for the pet into their new home.
Another advantage of adopting a senior pet is that they are often calmer and more laid back than younger animals. While puppies and kittens may be high-energy and require a lot of attention and exercise, aging pets are usually content to relax and spend time with their human companions. This makes them a great choice for people who lead busy lives or who prefer a quieter, more low-key lifestyle.
Senior pets also have a lot of love to give. They are affectionate and loyal because they have a gratitude for companionship that's unmatched. They are grateful for the second chance at a loving home and reward their new owners with unconditional love and devotion.
While they may require more frequent visits to the vet than younger animals, senior pets are typically past the stage of destructive behaviour and are less likely to chew on furniture or get into mischief. This means fewer trips to the emergency room and less stress for the pet owner.
Cost of a Senior Pet
But what about the cost of caring for a older pet? While it's true that older pets may require more frequent visits to the vet and specialized care, there are many ways to make it more affordable. Many animal welfare organizations offer programs to help offset the cost of senior pet care, such as discounted veterinary services and medication. And let's not forget that the cost of caring for a senior pet pales in comparison to the unconditional love and companionship they provide.
So, if you're thinking about adding a pet to your family, consider adopting a senior cat or dog. You won't regret it! Not only will you be giving a loving home to a deserving animal, but you'll also be reaping the benefits of a well-trained, loving, and loyal companion. Aging pets are often overlooked, but they have so much to offer and deserve to live out their golden years in comfort and love.
In conclusion, adopting a senior pet is a wonderful choice for anyone looking for a furry companion. Senior pets are often already trained, calmer and more laid back than younger animals, and have a lot of love to give. They also have health benefits and are a compassionate choice. So, don't overlook the older pets at your local shelter or rescue center. Give a senior pet a second chance at life - you won't regret it!
Finally, adopting a senior cat or dog is a compassionate choice. Many older pets end up in shelters or rescue centers due to circumstances beyond their control, such as the death or illness of their owners. By giving a senior pet a second chance at a loving home, you are not only enriching your own life but also changing their outcome for the better.
Where to Find a Senior Companion
If you're looking to adopt a senior pet in your area, try the Humane Society. Or, if you're local to central Alberta check out our partners
Saving Grace Animal Society or
Paws and Claws Animal Rescue to find your new best friend.
Don't forget to stock up on necessary supplies like
food,
treats and
toys to spoil your new senior companion!
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