I am in my mid fourties. If I were a cat, or dog, in the middle of my life, I would very likely be euthanized rather than put up for adoption. Most people want kittens or puppies, a few want year old pets, but very few want senior pets.
Senior pets are nearly impossible for shelters to adopt out. They sometimes are thought to come with baggage, health issues, and the fact that they will not have many long years left. Few people bother to even consider adopting such an animal. Because of this, many shelters do not even keep senior pets and they are euthanized without even being given a chance.
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| Authors old cat, now deceased. Ginger Bits. |
Senior pets actually do have many benefits and are an ideal companion in certain situations:
Senior pets are ideal for senior owners, they are calmer, and do not need as much exercise. They are usually well mannered and are less likely to jump on, or claw, their owner, than a playful younger pet. Senior pets generally fit better into the senior persons life, as a senior person may not be able to make a 15 year commitment to adopting a younger pet.
Senior pets are perfect for people who are only in one place for a short time, such as military people who move every few years.
Senior pets are sometimes great for homes with children. An older dog may be calmer and safer than a young puppy for example. An older cat will just wander away from a child if it does not want to be bothered, where as kittens will claw to get away. It should be noted that not all older pets are good with all children, and the manners of the children should be considered too.
Senior pets are well suited to the type of person who has lots of love to give to a companion who needs, and deserves it.
If you are thinking of adopting a pet, I encourage you to consider adopting an adult, or senior pet. These animals need homes too!
Petfinder.com has named September 17 - 25 as "Adopt-a-Less-Adoptable-Pet Week" and have asked bloggers to feature some of the types of less adoptable pets, senior pets being the one I have focused on here, but also includes black pets, pit bull dogs, and those with health concerns.
All pets need loving homes so adopting any pet this week (or at any time) will help, but I urge you to also considering saving the life of a senior animal.
Have a look at PetFinders Gallery of Pets which features only some of the less adoptable pets in shelters today!
