Oftentimes, senior pets are overlooked as potential options for pet buyers. However, getting an older pet has numerous benefits AND you would be helping animals that most definitely don't want to spend the rest of their golden years in shelters. Let's explore some of the biggest advantages of getting a senior pet, and hopefully, you'll consider it the next time you decide to bring a furry friend home!
1. Most are already trained
Usually, older pets found in adoptive shelters have already been in a household before. Therefore, they are oftentimes acquainted with basic commands (i.e. sit, stay, come, down, and heel) as well as general house training rules. This makes training them an easier process, and generally only takes a week or two to get them fully acquainted with their new household. On top of this, younger animals tend to be a lot more energetic and destructive. Older pets are calmer and more composed, resulting in less property damage and accidents around the household. Adopting a trained dog will save you a lot of time, stress, and money!
2. They learn new tricks easily
Both younger and older owners will love the company provided by senior animals. A common misconception is that older pets do not like to play, go on walks, or learn new tricks. This is simply not true. Although they may get tired more easily and be a little slower, all dogs love quality time with their owners. In addition, all dogs love to learn new tricks and please their owners. Oftentimes, this process is easier with senior pets as they are more calm, focused, obedient, and have a greater attention span than a puppy. Older dogs also don’t get as easily distracted, and thus can focus for longer periods of time than young pups. This ability to concentrate for longer periods of time actually helps them learn new tricks more easily!
3. They make excellent therapy dogs
Animal therapy can reduce pain and anxiety in people with a range of health problems like heart disease, cancer, dementia, and mental health disorders. Compared to their younger counterparts, senior pets are much calmer in nature. This makes them great companions for senior citizens and people with various health issues. Instead of getting caught up with cleaning accidents and running around chasing your young pet, you get to spend more quality time with your senior pet constantly by your side. It is no brainer that older pets make great companions for people who need company but don't have as much energy to care for the animal itself. Older pets are generally more mellow, relaxed, and do not need as much exercise and playtime to lead a healthy life. They will make a great partner, loyal companion, and late-night snuggle buddy!
4. They will appreciate your humble gesture
Senior pets in shelters have a hard time getting adopted because most people like getting younger pets. A lot of times, they end up either getting euthanized or spending most of their golden years in a shelter with limited social interaction. However, once you give them a chance you will feel pure joy and they will forever be grateful for your choice. They don’t care where you live, what you look like, or what you are able to provide for them. When you adopt a senior pet, you are saving them from an unfortunate and unwarranted death, and they will dedicate the remainder of their lives thanking you. They truly do understand and appreciate the magnitude of your kind and humble gesture!
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