November is Adopt a Senior Pet month

Our family has literally taken this to heart this month by adopting a dog who is getting close to her golden years. Litze is a beautiful German Shorthaired Pointer who had been picked up as a stray at animal control in St Clair Shores. They had planned to euthanize her because of her age (despite that fact that she was already spayed, already housetrained, and already knows basic commands). Fortunately, a worker contacted Last Day Dog Rescue, and Litze was pulled out of there and into a loving foster home. I had been browsing Petfinder.com (like always, it's kinda an addiction of mine), and I saw her soulful eyes looking at me. I had to adopt her. They peg her age between 5-7 years, based on her teeth. We'll be celebrating her 7th birthday in February. The difference between her and Brooke, our almost-3-year-old Hound mix, is amazing. Never again will I get a puppy. I'm not saying that I hate Brooke, not at all, but an older dog is definitely easier. Especially when I've already got a hyperactive 13-month-old daughter at home!

So why adopt a senior/aging dog? From Janet T. Crosby, DVM, here is an article explainging the 5 reasons why senior dogs ROCK:

1) They've been around the block
The situations of why the senior pet is looking for a home vary; a divorce in the family, change of jobs, a move, or in some cases, the passing of their owner.
In many cases, there are people involved who know about the history, personality, and special needs of the senior pet. This knowledge helps match the pet with someone who can best care for them.
Senior pets are generally quieter and calmer. They have lived through many experiences and are less likely to get overly excited by "everyday" events.

2) They aren't as likely eat your sock
With the puppy or kitten days behind them, these pets aren't chewing, climbing, scratching or eating things that they shouldn't be.


3) They're ready to go for a walk
Most senior dogs are familiar with a leash, able to meet and greet people and pets in a calm manner, and love going for walks. The exercise helps keep their weight at optimum levels, keeps their heart, bones and joints healthy, and benefits their human companion too.
Cats don't go for walks like dogs do, but they can immediately notice a lap, warm computer, or warm laundry just out of the dryer that needs to be occupied. They will hopefully be less curious and less likely than a younger cat to jump in the warm dryer.

4) They listen to you talk
Besides being an excellent listener, senior dogs often know many basic commands, such as sit, down, and stay. Many of them know some variation of "let's go for a walk" too.
Cats may not seem like they are listening at any age, but they are.
Senior pets, by nature calmer and usually wiser for their years, also recognize that "no" means no more quickly than their younger counterparts. (If they happen to find themselves in a situation where "no" is required.)

5) They will be a loyal and grateful member of your flock
Situations vary, but more often than not, senior pets had a home at some point in their life. Maybe they were rescued from a bad situation or maybe they were surrendered to a shelter, but either way, they never expected to find themselves in the "homes wanted" ads.
They know when they have it good. They will love you for it. I especially like what Petfinder has on their adoption widget: "Senior pets are seasoned at love."

And there you have it, ladies and gents; 5 reasons why senior pets rock.  Go out and adopt one today!