In Praise of Senior Pets
Aging is inevitable – and on the human side, often greatly resented. But our pets don’t seem to resent their aging; it’s just part and parcel of everything else.
Why am I mulling about age? Because along with a simple pet overpopulation issue affecting our many shelters and animal adoption agencies, there is also a more subtle, sad crisis happening to the older pets that end up there. They are often the last to be adopted and the first to be euthanized.
Having adopted a few older pets in my time, I know that their time with me might be shortened in years, but they have still given me some of the best memories – and I know that they were spoiled in the best way for whatever years we had.
When you start contemplating adopting a new pet, don’t forget to take a look at the older cats and dogs. You might just find that an older pet is going to be a better fit for a busy family than a youngster – it’s hard enough to juggle crazy kid schedules, let alone house train a puppy or house proof against an inquisitive kitten.
An older adopted dog, according to www.graymuzzle.org, offers:
• No surprises – what you see is what you get in terms of personality, size, etc.
• Most older dogs have already been trained – no housetraining usually needed and also commonly familiarity with common obedience.
• The older dog is past the chewing phase.
• A senior dog requires less exercise – but also offers a chance for increased human activity because they still need their walks and play.
• Senior pets and senior people can be a perfect match – in speed, in personality, but more importantly, that companionship benefits both (see next point).
• Lower blood pressure and reduced anxiety – the health benefits of owning a pet are proven.
Older kitties are no slouches in their attributes either, according to www.petfinder.com:
• A senior cat’s personality is fully formed – you’ll easily be able to know if a good fit for you and your family.
• An old cat can be taught new tricks – they’re actually easier to train than the youngsters.
• They are less likely to “forget” where the litterbox is.
• Senior cats are more content to relax with you rather than trying to find trouble while investigating the house.
• Most senior cats know that scratching posts – and not furniture – are for scratching. They know that toys – not hands – are for play-biting.
Again, the next time you’re thinking about adding a canine or feline family member, take a look at the available older pets – one or two might be the perfect fit for your family.
November is National Senior Pet Adoption Month, if you want to add that to your calendar.
Resources for Senior Pet Adoption:
www.ddfl.org
www.graymuzzle.org
www.petfinder.com
Dr. Margot can be reached at parkhillvet.com