Why You Should Adopt a Senior Pet
When it comes to pet adoption, many people look for younger animals. But the fact is that there are many older pets out there that still need a home too. These older animals make great pets and shouldn’t be ignored.
Read on to find out the benefits of adopting a senior pet.
Why is it better to adopt an older dog?
You’ve probably heard the saying, “You can’t teach an old dog new tricks.” This simply isn’t true. Older dogs are just as intelligent as younger dogs. In some cases, they can be easier to train, as they are calmer and have a longer attention span than puppies do.
Also, older dogs are more likely to be house-trained. They’re less likely to be destructive chewers than puppies as well. Even in cases where they don’t have training, their advanced physical and mental abilities make them much better at developing skills quickly.
Some people assume that a five-year-old dog doesn’t have much time left, but the reality is that you can have years of fun ahead with a dog this age. Many dogs live 10 or even 15 years. You can discuss ways to keep your dog healthy into their older years with your veterinarian.
Lastly, if you prefer a more laid-back experience with a dog, a senior pet is the way to go. A puppy can be a lot of work—they have tons of energy and they always want to be on the move. A senior dog is likely to have fewer needs and less energy to expend. Of course, you’ll still want to take the dog on regular walks, but most of the time, these dogs will be happy to cuddle up with you on the couch.
Do older cats make good pets?
Yes! When you adopt a kitten, you’re never sure what it’s personality will be like a few years down the line. But with an older cat, you know what you’re getting into. They’ve already changed and grown—and now they are who they are.
While kittens might be cuter, they are prone to destroying everything in your home with their sharp claws. A senior cat might appreciate a scratching post, but they aren’t as prone to destructive behavior. They also won’t spray indoors, unlike younger cats.
Your senior cat is also much more likely to be litter box-trained. They may have preferences when it comes to the litter box that you’ll have to find out, but they’re going to be more comfortable with the process than a kitten.
The bottom line is that older cats and dogs make great pets. If you need health care for your furry friend, it’s time to check out everything St. Francisville Animal Hospital has to offer. We do it all, from wellness checkups and vaccinations to emergency services, microchipping and boarding. And thanks to our association with the Humane Society, you might even find yourself interested in going home with another dog or cat! Give us a call to set up your first appointment.
Categorised in: Pet Care