Top 5 Reasons to Adopt and Care for a Senior Dog
It is fair to say there are few things in the world that are more universally beloved than dogs. For all of our differences, there’s something to be said for the fact that we all share a love of Man’s Best Friend.
One of the reasons dogs are so friendly and loveable is that they are so loyal. Since Homer wrote of Odysseus’ dog Argus waiting 20 years for his master to return from Troy and his odyssey around the Mediterranean, we’ve known and revered the great loyalty of dogs. It is only fair that we repay that loyalty by looking after our four-legged friends in their old age.
There are many reasons to adopt and care for a senior dog in need of a happy home, and here are the top five reasons to do so.
Be a Lifesaver
First and foremost, it must be said that to adopt and care for a senior dog isn’t just a nice thing to do – it can make the difference between life and death for them. Shelters only have space enough to keep so many dogs, and so when space becomes a problem. Therefore older dogs, particularly those with health problems, may be euthanized. This is incredibly heartbreaking, and no way for these wonderful creatures to end their lives.
Trained and Ready
For as much fun as training a dog can be, it isn’t for everyone. Training a dog takes time and effort. If you don’t have either or both in enough abundance, you can make costly mistakes and wind up with a real mess on your hands. That isn’t fair to you or a young puppy, who needs to be properly trained. The training a puppy receives in its youth will last it a lifetime, so, therefore, it must be trained properly.
If you don’t have time to train a puppy from the ground up, however, have no fear – older dogs often come pre-trained. They’ve already learned basic obedience skills, and so are “ready to go” from the moment you adopt them in a way that is not necessarily the case with puppies.
The Wisdom of Age
In that same vein, older dogs have the benefit of wisdom that comes from life experience.
Puppies are full of energy and curiosity. That’s part of why we love them. At the same time, however, that’s also part of what makes puppies such a handful. They’re constantly looking to run here and explore there, and if you aren’t able or willing to keep up with that, you may want to consider looking to older dogs as an alternative.
Older dogs are often a lot calmer and less hyperactive than their puppy counterparts. They’ve seen a thing or two, and have the calming benefit that only age can bring.
Old Dog, New Loyalties
“You can’t teach an old dog new tricks.”
We’ve all heard that adage before, but regardless of its efficacy for trick-learning, there’s no denying that you can teach an old dog to love a new master. Older dogs in shelters can be all the more loyal once they are welcomed into their new homes. Many of them have experienced hardship, and so will appreciate your kindness and be faithfully loyal to you as a result.
Improving Their Quality of Life
By adopting an older dog, you can drastically improve their quality of life.
For example, if your pet has mobility issues, there are several ways you can help them. You can take them to the vet, or put them through special dog exercises. In particular, dog wheelchairs or mobility carts can be of immense help to older dogs who need assistance getting around. Wheelchairs take the stress off their hind legs and can help older dogs with weak backs or legs remain standing.
Consider helping an old dog receive a new lease on life by adopting a senior dog today!
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“Top 5 Reasons to Adopt and Care for a Senior Dog”
Author’s BIO: Lori Wade is a journalist from Louisville. She is a content writer who has experience in small editions. Lori is now engaged in news and conceptual articles on the topic of pet care and veterinary. You can find her on Twitter & LinkedIn. Read over Lori’s useful insights!
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I was a “foster fail” for a senior dog. Spike was a min-pin who had been kept in a single room (not abused, the owner was boarding at someone else’s home). When the owner died, his landlord surrendered him to a “no-kill” shelter. He had an attitude which I liked (kind of normal for his breed) and I took him home to foster. Within a few days, he was right at home, and regained some mobility in his legs because he had space to run. Unfortunately, he passed away about two years after he became a part of our family – I still miss him. But, you’re absolutely right, adopting a senior dog is a much calmer experience than adopting a puppy.
Lot of time senior dogs and people have lot to offer.
Coffee is on