November is Adopt a Senior Dog Month

Let’s help the rescues and shelters to adopt all their senior dogs this month (and every month). Now we know those puppies are awfully cute and cuddly and so irresistible – but so are the senior dogs. There are many pluses to getting a senior dog. And many times a senior dog is a perfect match for a senior person.

• Most senior dogs are already housetrained, saving you time and stress training a new puppy where to do his business. Puppies need lots of patience, energy and consistent training; so they become a well behaved dog.
• Older dogs won’t need the constant monitoring that their younger counterparts need for house training, chewing or other mischief.
• Older dogs are typically calmer and less energetic than puppies; they are easier to teach new tricks. In fact, many already know basic commands. Because they are calmer and have longer attention spans they learn new things easier and quicker.
• Senior dog’s personalities are already developed and they are full grown. So you know from the start if the two of you will be a good match. For instance if they’re a snuggle-bunny, ready for naptime or one that likes hikes, car rides or walks in the great outdoors.
• And the love and gratitude that they give you is unfathomable. They will be a loyal, grateful new member of your family.

Rescue groups and shelters are able to assess the dogs and match you with the best dog based on their personality and your lifestyle. Because they assess the dogs they can give you information about the dog’s health, training, grooming requirements, etc.

It’s sad that dogs, sometimes only as old as 5 years, are often the last and most difficult group to be adopted. Senior dogs tend to spend the longest amount of time in rescues or shelters before finding their “furever” home.

Many senior pets are at a rescue or shelter because their lives have been uprooted either due to a death or tragedy of their former owner. Most are exceptionally affectionate and attentive pets, wanting nothing more than to please their new owner – YOU.

Check with your local shelter or a rescue group to see if they have any specials on adopting a senior pet. And don’t forget as with any pet rescue, if you adopt a senior pet, Hale Pet Door will give you 10% off the price of your pet door and donate an additional 10% to the rescue or humane society where you adopted your pet.