November is officially adopt-a-senior-pet month and while senior adoptions should be encouraged throughout the year I love having a month dedicated to these sweet seniors helps to raise awareness. Why do we need a month? Well unfortunately older dogs and cats are often the last to be adopted. Even more heart breaking is the fact that they are there in the first place. I have heard too many sad stories about seniors being dropped off at shelters because their families are not prepared to deal with them during this stage of life. I can't imagine what that must be like for those sweet dogs and cats to have their families abandon them at a time when they need them the most. But this is why it is so important that we help these wonderful pets by giving them a second chance at a happy life, especially when they are in their golden years.
There are many reasons why people shy away from adopting a senior, but the most common argument I hear is that people often feel they won’t get much time with a senior pet or they will have too many health issues leading to vet bills and eventual heart ache.
Having senior dogs myself I can honestly tell you that some of my most special moments have been during their golden years. There is something very sweet and very special about an older pet. They know who they are and what they want. They are so appreciative of your love and give you everything they can to show this. Not to mention they also become quite the characters in their senior years, so I encourage you to open your homes and your hearts and I promise you will not regret it.
There are no guarantees in life at any age and my life with any one of my seniors would feel fulfilled whether we had 6 months or 6 years together. I wouldn’t trade a minute of my time with them so please consider saving a senior – your heart will thank you.
Most, if not all, rescues and shelters have a senior population, but there are also organizations that specifically focus on helping older dogs. Rescues like this include:
- SAINTS Rescue – British Columbia, Canada
- Muttville Senior Dog Rescue – California, United States
- Old Dog Haven – Washington, United States
So please consider adopting a senior pet - your life will be forever changed for the better.
