Adding
a furry member to your family
is exciting. Whether you get
an older dog or cat or a puppy
or kitten, these pets can
infuse your household with
unconditional love and
happiness. However, you may be
hesitant about adopting a
senior animal due to concerns
about age or health issues.
Giving an older pet a home
comes with a number of
important benefits for you and
them. Use the following guide
to learn why you should
consider adopting an adult dog
or cat.
Why Should You Adopt a
Senior Pet?
1. Save a Life
At shelters, senior dogs
and cats are among those most
likely to be euthanized. When
you adopt one of these pets,
you may literally be saving a
life. On top of the
satisfaction that comes with
knowing you helped an animal
in its greatest moment of
need, your own life will
almost certainly change in
positive ways. You will have
the devotion of a pet who
still has a lot of love left
to give. They can provide you
with comfort, companionship,
humor, and unconditional love
and support.
2. Enjoy a Calmer
Environment
Puppies and kittens have
boundless energy and curiosity
and a need for more consistent
engagement and monitoring.
However, these are less likely
to be issues with senior
pets.
Adult cats and dogs are
well past the puppy or kitten
stage, so they are more
easygoing and relaxed,
demanding less time and
supervision. While it may be
an adjustment when you first
bring them home, they're
likely to settle into your
life and schedule quicker.
Their calmer demeanor ensures
they'll always be ready for a
snuggle or leisurely walk.
3. Avoid the Need for
Training
Many senior dogs and cats
have already received some
training, which can make your
life a lot easierand
much less messy. They tend to
be better behaved than younger
pets that may chew, scratch,
or play with items they
shouldn't. As a result, you
can enjoy the love they are
bringing into your life
without fear of them acting
out or destroying the
home.
You also won't have to
spend time housetraining a
puppy or litter box-training a
kitten. Adult pets often
already know basic commands,
as well. Despite the old
saying, senior pets can be
taught new tricks and
behaviors, largely because
they are calmer and more
focused than their younger
counterparts, which can make
the transition of bringing
them into your home even more
seamless.