Aged Well: The Benefits and Challenges of Adopting Senior Pets

Senior Pet Benefit #1: Instant BFF

Adopting a senior dog or cat isn’t about giving them their old life back. It’s about making sure they have their best life during their golden years. Having already been socialized, senior pets know how to bond with people. Just like you, they want to be part of a happy home and are ready to be forever faithful to their new human (and whoever has the treats).

You don’t have to limit your adoption to senior dogs and cats either. Many older, small animals (e.g., reptiles, guinea pigs, birds, ferrets) are often made available for adoption too. Please do your homework about these animals. A good number of them can live longer or grow bigger than you might expect.

Senior Pet Benefit #2: You Know What You’re Getting

With older dogs and cats, it’s much easier to see if they’d be a good fit for you. Since they’re already grown, you’ll know if they’re too big or not for your home. You’ll also have a good idea about their personality, temperament, grooming requirements and energy levels. This information is especially important if you have young children or other pets at home.

Senior Pet Benefit #3: Little to No Growing Pains

Getting a puppy or kitten housebroken can be a lot of work. And that’s just one of your responsibilities as the parent of a younger pet.

Senior dogs and cats have already gone through pet adolescence, and most have outgrown their undesirable habits.

Plus, there’s a good chance they’ve mastered a lot of useful commands. Since you don’t have to do as much babysitting or training, it’s also a lot easier to leave them alone at home. And despite how the saying goes, you can still teach old dogs (and cats) new tricks if you want.

Senior Pet Benefit #4: Life in the Not-So-Fast Lane

Life with a puppy or kitten moves fast, like 100 miles per hour fast. Most senior dogs and cats live a life that goes anywhere from 25 to 50 miles per hour. If the latter sounds more appealing to you, adopt a senior pet. Yes, everything moves at a slower pace for them, but that doesn’t mean they lack the energy or desire to have fun.

Senior dogs and cats still need regular walks, want to play and go on adventures. They just need to do everything at a more leisurely pace.

Senior Pet Challenge #1: Adjusting to a New Forever Home

Senior dogs and cats are creatures of habit. Living in a new home is one routine that may require a lengthier adjustment period. While some adopted pets take to a new family quickly, many need a couple weeks or even a few months to adapt. Be patient. They’ll eventually come around; however, if they’re acting in a way that concerns you, don’t hesitate to talk with your veterinarian.

Senior Pet Challenge #2: Their Health Isn’t What It Used to Be

Senior dogs and cats are still healthy dogs and cats. They may just have a few medical concerns that can be managed with regular veterinary visits, medication and preventative care.

For senior pets, health issues can include muscular, skeletal and joint problems; eye and vision changes; ear infections; urinary incontinence; kidney issues and liver disease. Don’t let this list discourage you from adopting an older dog or cat. Taking care of a pet’s medical needs doesn’t have to be as complicated as you may think.

There are many senior pet foods that target specific health conditions. If your pet suffers from separation anxiety, look for calming products made for dogs and cats. And being an older animal, your new furry friend may find it difficult to get in and out of vehicles. A pet car ramp can help. You’ll find products like these and more, including an online pet pharmacy, at Pet Supplies Plus.

Senior Pet Challenge #3: Living with their Physical Limitations

If mobility is an issue, you should place things within easy reach of your senior dog and cat. For example, put their toys, food, bed and kitty litter box on the same floor so they don’t have to trudge up and down a flight of stairs. You may even consider putting their food closer to their bed to make eating a less strenuous task.

Let’s say your pet has a loss of hearing. Go from verbal commands to hand signals as a means of communication. If your dog or cat has vision problems, you may need to rearrange your home a little to keep them safe. And even if their energy levels may seem low, senior pets still need exercise to support their digestive and cardiovascular health. Just make sure they don’t overexert themselves, i.e., do everything in moderation.

When adopting a pet, most people have their heart set on a puppy or kitten. Maybe it’s time for a change of heart. Senior pets are in shelters through no fault of their own. It’s true adopting an older dog or cat can have its challenges; however, these obstacles are also manageable. Furthermore, senior pets are ready to be your new best friend and their laid-back attitude is perfect for so many different lifestyles. If this is what you want from a pet, consider adopting a senior dog or cat from a local shelter or rescue today.