November Is Adopt-a-Senior-Pet Month
Wednesday, November 9, 2011
Think of a pet that is already trained and doesn't chew or scratch everything in sight--a pet who will love you unconditionally. That's what you get when you adopt a senior pet.
Some people worry that a senior pet comes with problems, but according to Hazel Blumberg-McKee of Tallahassee, FL, there are no disadvantages. "In most cases they've had a home and they want one again." She adopted eight-and-a-half-year old Sadie, and has never regretted it. "An older animal is easier to deal with. And Sadie is still playful. She plays fetch and gallops all over the place."
At animal shelters and rescue groups everywhere, there are loving, healthy senior pets like Sadie, looking for that one special home to cherish them for the rest of their life, and they don't ask for much: just a warm place to sleep, good meals and plenty of love.
JC Pet Suppliers has a great post discussing the benefits of adopting an older dog.
- - Older dogs are generally housetrained. Adopting a puppy requires hours of potty training and cleaning up accidents – a more mature dog already knows his house manners.
- - Older dogs sometimes have a calmer, more mellow disposition. With old age comes patience and focus. An older dog will learn more quickly and focus well because they have mellowed.
- - Older dogs generally aren’t teething. Puppies tend to explore with their mouths and chew anything within reach to soothe the pain of teething.
- - Older dogs know what “no” means. Generally, older dogs have been taught “no” and understand its meaning – they will learn quickly what they can and cannot do and where they can and cannot go.
- - Older dogs require less attention. Although snuggling, scratching, petting and playing are always accepted, more mature dogs can be just as content laying still and keeping watch over the house, unlike puppies who may require more constant attention and looking after.
During Adopt-a-Senior-Pet Month, take the opportunity to get acquainted with the older pets available at your local shelter or visit the shelter online at www.petfinder.com.
For the Pets,
Paul Mann, Founder and CEO
Fetch! Pet Care
