Tucker & Emma
Adopting a Senior Dog Karen Sturtevant
W
e all know the reaction puppies get from us. We revert to behavior like a child with a lollipop. “He’s so cute!” we gush. “Look at her face!” “So tiny!” The accolades seem never-ending for the newto-the-world creatures. But, what about the ones past their prime, beyond the fuzzy fur phase? Often times adoptable older dogs are passed over, if seen at all, due to negative, preconceived thoughts. Why is it important for people to consider adopting an older dog? If Jenny Rossi had her way, all senior dogs would find their people. I first met Jenny Rossi one early Sunday morning at the Chittenden County Humane Society where she arrived with enthusiasm. She was ready to tackle her first morning animal care (MAC) shift. The guinea pig enclosures needed to be disinfected, the cats were howling for breakfast all the while the bunnies lounged without a care in the world. Our volunteer MAC team quickly settled into an efficient routine. After all the litter boxes were cleaned, meals served and floors mopped, it was time to get hands on with the current guests. It was during this play time, that we became friends and I discovered her love for senior dogs. I wasn’t surprised when, in addition to her regular tasks, she took the initiative to be officially trained on proper dogwalking protocols. This skill allowed her 24 4 Legs & a Tail
Winter 2022
