Why You Should Consider Adopting a Senior Pet

When people think about adopting a pet, they often picture a puppy or kitten. But many older pets in shelters and rescues are just waiting for their forever home. Senior pets make wonderful companions, and there are plenty of reasons to consider adopting one. Learning the benefits of senior pet adoption also helps dispel the myths that keep so many people from giving these animals a second chance.

The Unfortunate Truth

Senior pets are usually the last to be adopted from shelters. Many never find homes and spend the rest of their days in a small kennel. Because they are adopted less quickly than younger animals, they face a greater risk of being euthanized.

The Misconception About Senior Pets

A common belief is that older animals end up in shelters because of destructive or bad behavior. In most cases, that is not true. Pets land in shelters for many reasons, including changes in home circumstances, financial hardship, the death of their owner, or a move. Many of these senior pets were once someone’s faithful companions.

Benefits of Adopting a Senior Pet

Young pets are undeniably cute, but they also require a lot more attention and energy. Senior pets tend to be more adaptable and can fit into most lifestyles with a little love.

They Are Often Already Trained

One of the biggest benefits is that senior pets are often already trained. Many know basic commands like sit, stay, come, and down, and are usually housetrained. This can be a big relief for first-time pet owners or anyone without the time to train a younger animal.

Their Personality Is Already Known

With a senior pet, you generally know what you are getting in terms of personality and energy level. It can be hard to predict how a young pet will turn out as they grow. Will they be calm or active? Will they be good with children or other animals? With a senior pet, the shelter usually has a good idea of their personality and can help match them with the right home.

Challenges of Adopting a Senior Pet

There are some challenges to consider. Older animals may need more veterinary care than younger ones, and they may not have as many years to enjoy their new home. On the other hand, senior pets are often already spayed or neutered, which saves the added expense of that procedure.

Ways to Celebrate Adopt a Senior Pet Month

Adopt

If you are considering adopting a senior pet, talk with your veterinarian about what care your new friend may need. With a little extra care and attention, senior pets can be beautiful additions to any family.

Encourage Senior Pet Adoption

If you are not able to adopt right now, no worries! Talk to people about adopting senior pets. If friends or family are planning to adopt, encourage them to consider an older animal in need of a home.

Volunteer at Your Local Shelter

Financial limits, long working hours, or living spaces that do not allow pets can keep us from having a pet at home. Thankfully, there is more than one way to show love for animals. Volunteer at a local shelter and help out in any way you can.

Supporting Your Pet’s Daily Wellness

Whether you adopt a young pet or an older one, daily nutrition plays an important role in their overall wellbeing. Many pet owners add omega-3 fatty acids to support their dog or cat’s skin, coat, and overall daily wellness. Vital Pet Life Salmon Oil provides EPA and DHA omega-3 fatty acids that help support healthy skin and coat, heart function, and a healthy immune system.

It is made from sustainably sourced salmon, comes in triglyceride form, and is verified by ORIVO NMR lab testing for species identity and geographic origin. Available in 8 oz, 16 oz, and 32 oz sizes and formulated for both dogs and cats. Always consult your veterinarian before adding a supplement to your pet’s routine.

Shop Vital Pet Life Salmon Oil

Final Thoughts

Senior pets make great additions to any family. They are often already housetrained and past the destructive puppy or kitten stage, and many have mellowed into calm, loyal companions. Even so, older pets often have a harder time being adopted because people tend to want younger animals. This is especially true during “puppy and kitten season,” when shelters and rescues see an influx of young animals.

We hope sharing the benefits of adopting a senior pet encourages you to consider one the next time you adopt. And if you have already adopted a senior pet, help us celebrate Adopt a Senior Pet Month by sharing your story with us @vitalpetlife!

Frequently Asked Questions

Why should I adopt a senior pet?
Senior pets are often already trained, have a known personality and energy level, and tend to adapt well to different lifestyles. They are also usually past the destructive puppy or kitten stage, which makes them great companions for first-time owners and busy households.

Are senior pets already trained?
Many senior pets know basic commands like sit, stay, come, and down, and are usually housetrained. Every animal is different, so ask the shelter or rescue about the individual pet’s history and habits.

What are the challenges of adopting a senior pet?
Older pets may need more veterinary care than younger ones and may not have as many years to enjoy their new home. Senior pets are often already spayed or neutered, which can offset some of the cost. Talk with your veterinarian about what care your new pet may need.

Why do senior pets end up in shelters?
Most senior pets are not surrendered because of bad behavior. Common reasons include changes in home circumstances, financial hardship, the death of an owner, or a move.

How can I help senior pets if I can’t adopt?
You can encourage friends and family to consider adopting an older animal, share senior pets in need of a home, or volunteer at your local shelter or rescue.