Why Adopt An Older Dog?

by Ardeth DeVries

Think about what it would feel like to be homeless. Then, think about what it would feel like to be homeless as a senior citizen. Or, even more to the point, think about what it would feel like to be a homeless senior citizen living in a cage. It’s hard to wrap your mind around these thoughts isn’t it?

Dogs require the same sense of belonging and need for love that humans do. They’re social animals and want to feel connected in some way. The older dogs that come to us have either been dumped at shelters, doomed to wait until they’re euthanized, or they’ve found themselves without home and family because their human companions couldn’t or didn’t want to keep them. Life as they knew it has forever changed, and they’re adrift in a world that often has no room for them.

You can change that! If you have room in your home and heart for an older dog, consider the following reasons why adopting an older dog is a very good idea:

Older dogs, especially those that come to us, settle in easily and are more than ready and willing to bond with you and your family.

What you see is what you get with older dogs. They’ve already grown into themselves in all ways.

An older dog probably won’t need a great deal of exercise, and will really appreciate quality time with you and a good nap. And of course, your socks and underwear will remain in tact.

Older dogs generally like to watch the same programs on TV that you do, so you won’t have to learn to enjoy cartoons.

Many older dogs have already experienced rides in the car and walking on leash, so they’re instant companions and ready to continue those activities with you.

Older dogs have figured out what humans are all about and are willing and eager to add new information to their knowledge of human behavior. Old dogs can absolutely learn new tricks!

Older dogs are very grateful for the second chance they’ve been given and are very good at giving and receiving love.

There’s absolutely nothing like the smile you get from older dogs—especially dogs that haven’t felt like smiling in awhile, but now have reasons to smile because you love them.

Older dogs are looking for human companions who will value their wisdom and their slow pace. They have their very own special appeal.

When you adopt older dogs, you can erase any unpleasant past experiences that they’ve had by loving them and caring for them. It doesn’t get any better than that!

 

Check out our list of currently adoptable dogs, and if you see a dog that touches your heart in some way, please fill out our online adoption application.

Thank You!