Why Seniors should adopt older dogs
We all know dogs are a senior’s best friend. There are many researches showing having a pet may boost your mood, keep you active, and may even reduce blood pressure and increase heart health.
A recent survey concluded that aging adults in particular can benefit from an animal companion.
The National Poll and Healthy Aging surveyed 2,051 adults aged 50 to 80 last fall, more than half of whom reported owning a pet. And 88% said that their pets helped them enjoy life, and 86% said their pets made them feel loved. The poll sponsored by the AARP and the University of Michigan also reported that 79% of senior pet parents said that their four-legged (or feathered, or finned) friends reduced stress.
But should you consider adopting? Adopting a rescue is a great cause, and it can also be more affordable than a pet store or breeder. You may find both purebred or mixed-breed dogs plus many trained, older dogs who would love to cuddle up with you.
We put together a list of reasons why you should adopt a senior dog. Check it out:
1- A senior dog will not destroy your things
The mature dog has probably lived for many years in one or more human homes, so he knows that he’s not supposed to get into your stuff. In other words, you need not fear coming home to find that your dog has trashed your home in a fit of boredom, loneliness, or panic.
2- He will enjoy your company
Adolescent and young adult dogs certainly love their people, but they have other priorities, too. After all, there’s a whole world out there for them to explore! If you let a younger, speedy dog off leash in an unprotected area, he may decide to take off on an exploratory expedition. However, the older dog not only doesn’t possess such speed, but he isn’t at all unhappy about it. He’s no longer beset with wanderlust; his idea of a good time is hanging out with you
3- No more super hyper behaviors
Adolescent and young adult dogs don’t always appear to hear what you’re asking them to do. They may be guilty of a kind of selective hearing: They don’t seem to hear you tell them to get off the couch or to come when called, but they magically appear before you if they hear “treat.” But with senior dogs, such issues are a thing of the past. They’re happy to hang onto your every word and, if possible, do what you’ve asked. If a senior dog appears not to hear what you’re saying, the reason may be real deafness, not the selective kind
4- He Knows When to Leave You Alone
Although an older dog will tend to stick closer to you than a young dog will, that doesn’t mean that the oldster is a pest. As long as he knows where you are, he’ll be cool with whatever you’re doing. If, for example, you’re playing around on your computer, a senior dog will be perfectly happy just taking a snooze at your side. This can be a welcome alternative to dealing with a puppy who relentlessly tries to get you to play, gets himself into trouble when you won’t play, or just can’t settle down while you’re trying to get stuff done.
5- He’ll Appreciate You
Puppies and young adult dogs are the cutest, most infectious beings to grace the planet, hands down. That said, they’re too busy enjoying life to pay a ton of attention to you (although spending time training and socializing a young dog can help change that). But a senior dog is different—especially if you’ve adopted him as a senior from a shelter or rescue group. He knows how good his life is with you. He’s grateful for cuddle time, an extra treat, and—most of all—extra attention. Many adopters strongly believe that their rescues know how fortunate they are and that they greatly appreciate the second chance at happiness that their new person has given them.
Not sure if you are ready to adopt?
Consider Fostering
If you’re unsure whether you want to bring a dog who’s in the autumn of his life into your home, consider fostering him first. Many shelters and rescue groups appreciate placing their wards into foster care because this not only provides a newly abandoned pet with a comfortable temporary home environment, but also offers adoption coordinators an opportunity to evaluate the dog.
Although every organization sets different requirements for foster families, you’ll be responsible for providing basic needs, including feeding, grooming, housing, and medical care. Some groups cover expenses; some do not. Depending on the dog’s needs and the availability of new adoptive homes, the length of time he remains with you will vary.
By caring for an elderly dog until he finds permanent placement, you’ll have some idea about whether a senior is a good fit for your family.
At Argo Senior Living we know how important your pet is for you. Contact us for information about our community!
