Reasons to Consider Adopting a Senior Pet

Are you thinking about welcoming a new pet into your home? Many people go for younger animals when searching for a new pet. We understand why that is: puppies and kittens are incredibly adorable and bring so much joy. But older pets also bring a lot to the table! Continue reading as a local Alameda, CA veterinarian shares several reasons to consider adopting an older pet.

Senior pets tend to be more relaxed.

Puppies and kittens are playful creatures, which is adorable to observe. Nonetheless, there are some drawbacks. At that stage, pets often exhibit a lot of energy and playfulness, and they tend to explore anything and everything. Taking care of a younger pet involves a fair amount of attention, as you’ll need to keep them engaged and out of mischief. By the time an animal reaches their senior years, they tend to be a lot less work.

You’d be saving a life.

It can be quite challenging for older animals to find homes. Many individuals tend to overlook them in favor of younger pets. While there isn’t a precise number for the pets euthanized in shelters annually, estimates suggest the figure falls between 378,000 and potentially up to 1 million. Many shelters allow a limited time for pets to find a new home, which means that older animals often have a bleak chance of being adopted. By choosing to rescue one of these sweet older souls, you could quite literally be saving their life.

There aren’t many surprises to worry about.

When you bring home a puppy or kitten, it’s anyone’s guess what they will look like as they grow older. For instance, it can be difficult to determine just how big Fido will get, especially if you decide to adopt a mixed breed. That can be an issue, particularly for renters, since many locations impose size restrictions. You may also find it challenging to gauge their personality. Every pet is one of a kind, much like each person! When it comes to an older animal on the other hand, things are usually pretty clear-cut. What you see is what you get!

They’re already trained.

Another advantage of adopting animals in their senior years is that they have usually undergone training already. Being able to skip housebreaking certainly has its advantages! Cats, naturally, don’t require a lot of formal training—in fact, they often end up training us instead. But they still need to learn the essentials of being a well-behaved kitty.

They are easier to care for.

Having a baby animal is quite similar to caring for a furry toddler. You might often find yourself removing little Fluffy from your curtains or trying to prevent little Fido from gnawing on your shoes. In this regard, older animals tend to be more manageable. They have moved beyond their zoomies and are generally past destructive behaviors like digging and chewing. They much prefer to sleep, eat, and snuggle. This makes them simple to care for. 

They have lots of love to give.

Pets possess a remarkable level of intelligence and intuition. They often serve as reflections, mirroring how they are treated. They certainly recognize when someone has extended kindness to them, and in response, they tend to express deep gratitude. Indeed, you might find yourself melting the first time your new companion gazes up at you with those big, grateful eyes! 

It’s less of a commitment.

When you decide to adopt a puppy or kitten, you are committing to a journey of pet ownership that will likely last at least a decade, possibly more. Older animals have limited time left. That can be advantageous for certain individuals. For example, if you’re uncertain about your future in ten years, or if you’re considering spending eight years in college followed by a move across the country, you might discover that adopting an older pet aligns better with your plans.

They are less likely to get into trouble.

As Fluffy and Fido enter their senior years, they will likely begin to feel less energetic. Fluffy will probably be more focused on catching Z’s than on catching mice, while Fido will be chasing squirrels in his dreams instead of in real life. Older pups will have outgrown many of their bad habits, like digging and chewing. Fluffy will continue to need her nails kept sharp, and while she may still enjoy batting small objects off your desk or coffee table, she likely won’t feel motivated to scale the bookcase and send everything tumbling off.

You’ll probably save some money.

Shelters tend to offer older animals at a reduced price to improve their chances of being adopted. By adopting, you might also reduce some veterinary expenses, as Fido and Fluffy have most likely already been spayed or neutered. That said, it’s important to remember that they might require additional veterinary attention as they enter their later years. Consult your Alameda, CA veterinarian for additional details.

They bring a special kind of joy.

Kittens and puppies are undeniably adorable, but older pets have their own unique charm as well. It’s truly delightful to witness a refined dog gently requesting affection or a treat, or to observe Fluffy contentedly napping in her cherished sunlit spot. 

They can lead by example.

Bringing an older animal into your home is a lovely gesture of compassion. For those with children, this can serve as an excellent opportunity to teach them about empathy. Even for those without children, it serves as a great chance to set a positive example. 

You’ll be promoting animal welfare.

By adopting an older animal, you’ll also be providing support to other homeless pets in need by creating more space at the shelter and allowing another dog or cat the opportunity to find a home. The adoption fees for Fluffy and Fido will also assist the shelter in providing food, housing, and care for their other furry residents. 

Guidelines for Welcoming an Older Pet 

Although senior pets generally require similar care as other animals, there are a few things you may need to approach differently. Consider getting pet ramps or stairs for Fluffy and Fido. If you have a cat, it’s a good idea to choose furniture that is low to the ground, making it easy for your senior kitty to hop on and off. 

Your Alameda, CA animal clinic can provide tailored advice for your specific furry friend. 

Schedule a Visit at Our Alameda, CA Pet Clinic

Have you recently welcomed an older pet into your home? As your trusted Alameda, CA vet, we invite you to reach out to us for all your pet care needs. We’re here to help!