There’s nothing more adorable than a baby pet of almost any kind. And I’ve certainly had and adopted a variety of them, especially dogs, throughout my life. Cheeky, youthful fur babies bursting with boundless energy, they bring their distinctive personalities and quirks, and are usually trainable with time.
But what about senior-aged animals? More specifically, those that are seven years or older. Would you adopt them?
The thing is, all aged domestic critters need a warm, healthy, loving home. But, like most attitudes towards age these days, especially in Western culture, the young pups, so to speak, tend to get first pickings.
I get it. It’s hard not to melt when you have the likes of a perky, fresh-faced pup nuzzling and licking you. But I don’t know how many times I’ve heard both newbie and seasoned animal adopters say something along the lines of “They’re so cute and they live longer.”
Of course, it’s completely heartbreaking when we see our beloved pets in distress, discomfort or with ill health. We shed tears and grieve when they die. But it’s even sadder to think that an older yet perfectly healthy and well-mannered animal has to be euthanised because no one else is willing to give them a home.
There are many reasons as to why they have been surrendered. Circumstances can change in life in an instant.
While you want a quality life for all animals, sometimes having a puppy or kitten doesn’t go as anticipated, either.
The thing is, nothing lasts forever in our lives. Our relationships, family, friends, jobs, homes, experiences and the animals we care for, they are all temporary in the scheme of things. Yet so many cling to that sense of permanency.
That’s why it’s important to realise that we are essentially caretakers, stewards or custodians. We are here to love, feel contentment, share and care for other beings and life, especially of the human, animal and environmental kind. And if it isn’t for as long as you had anticipated, then it’s important to understand that you were blessed to have that special connection, experience or bond for the time you did.
Adopting Felix
My first experience with adopting an older animal was a bit over a decade ago. At the time, I already had a geriatric Dalmatian, Milo. I’d adopted him when he was four. Eight years later, a spinal injury had slowed him down physically.
I wanted a companion dog for both of us; not too young and overly spritely, but still young at heart and healthy and happy. Enter Felix, a female spotty pooch aged eight. Although she was the oldest dog I had adopted, it was that unspoken connection that had me hooked. Additionally, Felix was smiley, bright-eyed, easygoing, switched-on and water loving.
Her former owner, who had her since she was a puppy, was relocating overseas with her young family. She was devastated that she had to say goodbye to Felix, but knew that finding her another loving home was the best thing to do.
At the time, I was surprised that Felix hadn’t already been rehomed. Apparently, she was written off as soon as anybody found out how old she was.
From the get-go, Felix was the best companion for Milo and me. Despite a touch of sciatica, she lived for another immensely happy and active six and half years.
Just as animals love unconditionally, we need to love them unconditionally. We need to treasure the time we do have with them, whether it’s a little or a lot.
Felix at Woodside Beach. Image by Kristin Lee.
Seven great reasons to adopt a senior pet:
1. The older they are, the more wisdom, contentment and life experience they have, including toilet training, especially dogs and cats.
2. Young at heart, they can still whoop it up, but in moderation. That means they won’t wear you out and are less likely to destroy the house, garden or furniture.
3. They still need love, affection and attention but not to the extent a young one does, which is around the clock. Plus, older animals nap for longer.
4. It sounds cliché, but it’s never too late to teach an old dog new tricks, and this can apply to a range of pets. At age 10, Felix, a mostly urban-based pooch, learned to round up sheep and ducks at a farm. It literally gave her a new lease on life.
5. Generally, older pets are more socially adept. They often adapt to their new home quickly and make terrific companions for existing pets.
6. Whether adopting from a shelter or an individual, senior pets often have a reduced adoption fee. Sometimes there’s no fee. Regardless, it’s still about providing the best home possible.
7. What you see is exactly what you get with older animals. They know no limits or bounds, just pats, hugs, loyalty and unconditional love for years to come.
Felix herding sheep.
What’s your experience with adopting older pets?
By Kristin Lee
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