Senior Dogs Rock!!!

FEATURE STORY

WRITTEN BY: HALI SELERT, Staff Writer

This time of year, it seems like all we’re seeing are people looking for puppies to take home for the holidays. We love puppies as much as the next person, but how about instead of focusing on the adorable little devils, we give another type of pup some spotlight-- specifically, seniors.

Senior dogs are oftentimes overlooked in shelters by adopters and rescues alike. They aren’t the most sought after age group, and sadly, they’re the dogs that have the hardest time getting out of the shelter. To us, it’s a bit perplexing, because senior dogs are so amazing!

Seniors are some of my favorite dogs, for so many reasons. They’re generally more relaxed, usually they have at least the basics down when it comes to training, and will more than likely cost you less annually than a wee little pup. Plus, it is so rewarding to watch a senior dog settle into their forever home, knowing their golden years are ahead.

In rescue, the main reason we see people surrendering dogs is because they don’t have time for their pup. Whether that meaning they don’t have time to train them properly, or time to get their energy out, we hear it a lot regardless. One thing we usually don’t have to worry about when placing a senior dog into a home is whether the adopter is going to be able to exercise the dog enough to keep everyone happy. Senior dogs generally enjoy a walk or two a day, some sunbathing in the yard, and naps in the living room. Their energy levels are perfect for people who want a companion, but don’t want to have to go on runs or to the dog park daily.

Another perk with adding a senior dog to your pack is that you get to avoid the annoying potty training/teething phase that comes along with puppies. Seniors usually have their destructive phases out of their systems and can be trusted to be left in the home and not turn your couch into a pile of fluff when not monitored. They generally know some basics, at least general manners, and contrary to popular belief, you CAN teach an old dog new tricks!

When adding a puppy to your home, you should have a pretty hefty budget set aside for several rounds of vaccines, spay/neuter surgery (if not adopting from a shelter or rescue), check ups when they inevitably get into something they should not, and all the toys, treats, and bones. Luckily, you get to skip a lot of that when adopting a senior! The basic vetting has definitely been done, and you should be able to sleep at night knowing that the shelter or rescue you adopt from probably also did some extras to make sure your new pet is healthy. We’re not saying there won’t be some unexpected extras as your pup ages, but you’ll get those with any dog you adopt, eventually!

Finally, and in my opinion, the best part about adding a senior dog to your family, is the gratitude they will show you. If you’re adopting a senior dog, they more than likely were failed by a human at least once before, or they experienced a sad situation that led to them being in a rescue or shelter. You get to turn their entire life around and promise them an amazing rest of their life! You’ll see them settle down knowing they’re going to be okay. Their guard will go down and their personality will start to shine through. And they know-- they always know when they’ve been saved. And they’ll thank you for it.

So, be the hero this holiday season and instead of fighting over the cute little pup, consider the senior that may not have another shot at a warm home-- you most certainly will not regret it! ■