Reasons to Adopt a Senior Pet

Are you prepared to bring a new pet into your home? Many individuals choose young animals while looking for a new companion. Although kittens and puppies are adorable, older pets can also be extremely appealing. There’s something heartwarmingly adorable about seeing a sophisticated pooch politely request pets or cookies, or seeing Fluffy blissfully napping in her favorite sunbeam. Continue reading as a local Fort Myers, FL veterinarian discusses some of the benefits of adopting an older pet. 

Older Dogs Are Calmer

We all know that puppies and kittens are quite playful. This is obviously adorable to watch. However, there is a drawback. At this stage, pets are typically rather rambunctious. They frequently get into anything and everything. They also need plenty of toys and attention. A younger pet will require a significant amount of pet parenting in order to keep them amused and out of trouble.

Saving A Life 

While some shelters have implemented a no-kill policy, this is not a general practice. There is no definite statistic for how many pets are euthanized in shelters each year, but estimates range from 378,000 to one million. Given that many shelters only allow pets to be adopted for a limited time, this means that, unfortunately, many elderly animals have a slim chance of ever leaving. Saving a pet’s life is an extremely powerful and significant experience that can have a lasting impact on your life.

No Surprises

When you get a puppy or kitten, you can basically guess what they will look like when they grow up. You won’t be able to predict how big Fido will get, especially if you adopt a mongrel. That can be a major issue, particularly for renters, as many areas have size restrictions. There is no guesswork involved when dealing with an elderly animal. What you see is what you will get!

Prior Experience

Another advantage of adopting animals in their senior years? They are often already trained. There are numerous benefits to being able to avoid housebreaking! Cats, of course, do not require actual training—they usually train us, not the other way around—but they do need to understand the do’s and don’ts of being a good kitty.

Calm Demeanor

Puppies and kittens are adorable and energetic, but they can also be a handful. You may find yourself continuously removing small Fluffy from your curtains or preventing little Fido from chewing on your shoes. Older animals are much easier in this regard. They’ve passed their zoomies and are usually past any rowdy behaviors like digging and gnawing. Most of them really only want to sleep, eat, and snuggle. 

Shorter Commitments

This one is bittersweet. Older pets just spend less time with us than younger ones. Adopting a puppy or kitten means committing to at least a decade of pet ownership. Senior animals simply don’t have as much time. That can be advantageous for some. If you don’t know where you’ll be in 10 years, or if you intend to go to college for eight years before moving cross-country, an older animal may be the right choice for your timeline.

Less Destructive

By the time Fluffy and Fido reach their senior years, they will have nearly run out of gas. Fluffy will be more interested in catching Z’s than in capturing mice, and Fido will most likely chase squirrels in his dreams rather than reality. Dogs will have outgrown many unpleasant habits, like digging and gnawing. Fluffy will still need to keep her nails sharp and will most likely want to bat little objects off your desk or coffee table, but probably won’t be motivated enough to climb the bookcase or knock everything off your dresser.

Save Money

Shelters frequently give elderly animals at a discounted rate to boost their prospects of adoption. You may also save on veterinarian costs because Fido and Fluffy have most likely already been fixed. Keep in mind that they may require additional veterinarian care as they age. Contact your Fort Myers, FL veterinarian for further information.

Sweet Demeanor

Older animals often have a calm, friendly, affectionate disposition that makes them enjoyable to be around. Many love attention and would simply close their eyes in happiness when you scratch an itch or touch their foreheads.

Set A Good Example

Adopting an elderly animal is, at the end of the day, a wonderful act of generosity. If you have children, this is an excellent method to teach them about kindness and empathy. 

Help Promote Good Animal Welfare

When you adopt an elderly animal, you are indirectly aiding other homeless pets. For one thing, you’ll be freeing up space at the shelter, allowing another lovable dog or cat to find a home. Fluffy and Fido’s adoption fees will also assist the shelter provide food, shelter, and care for its other animal residents.

Tips for Adopting an Older Pet

While older pets require the same basic care as any other animal, there are a few things you should do differently. You might wish to get pet ramps or stairs for Fluffy and Fido, for instance. If you have a cat, look for kitty furniture that is low to the ground and easy to get on and off.

Of course, each pet is unique. You should see your animal clinic for particular care instructions for your animal companion. We adore seeing senior animals find wonderful homes!

Book An Appointment At Our Fort Myers, FL Pet Clinic

Have you recently adopted an elderly pet? Please contact us for all of your pet’s veterinary requirements. As your Fort Myers, FL pet clinic, we’re here to help!