5 Reasons to Adopt a Senior Pet

Who doesn't OOH and AAH over puppies and kittens? It's hard to resist the cuteness and friendliness of such creatures. However, after several months and the "teenage times", many young dogs and cats that are adopted are returned to shelters because the "cuteness" has worn off.

There are many advantages to adopting an older pet, even those known as "seniors". Many people are hesitant to adopt an older dog or cat for various reasons, including the concern of the animal not bonding with a new owner. However, age makes no difference when it comes to humans and pets bonding - most senior pets know the joy of spending time in a family and miss that companionship when they are turned into a shelter or rescue; they are eager to find that sense of camaraderie and security once again. My husband adopted a 10-year-old Cocker Spaniel a few years ago, and he is completely devoted to us. In fact, I'm sure if he could talk instead of simply wag his tail, he would constantly tell us 'thank you!' Cody is a fine, loyal friend and a great addition to our family.

Here are five great reasons to adopt a mature pet:

· Puppies and kittens require a great deal of attention and time, and for busy families, time is something of a commodity. Mature pets can be left alone for longer periods of time, and often enjoy having 'down time'. Now, this doesn't mean they should be locked up in a kennel all the time and it doesn't mean they don't need exercise - adult pets just require LESS time and energy than puppies or kittens.

· Young ones require training, such as housebreaking, and a great deal of patience. Older pets often come housebroken/litter box trained, and in many cases, adult dogs have some basic obedience training, such as knowing "sit", "stay" and "come".

· What you see is what you get when you adopt an adult - adopting a mature pet allows you to know more about its size and temperament, whereas adopting a puppy or kitten is sometimes a guessing game when it comes to the animal's temperament and size.

· Older pets expend less energy - often, a simple walk around the neighborhood for an older dog is sufficient, and mature cats enjoy lounging in the sun more than chasing strings or feathers. So if you're not terribly active, an older pet might suit your lifestyle.

· Adopting an older pet is truly a selfless act. As an animal ages, its chances of adoption grow slimmer; by giving a mature pet a home, you're showing great compassion and empathy - and gaining a wonderful furry friend in the process!

Some people think if an older dog or cat is in the shelter there must be something wrong with it - not so! Many adult and senior pets are relinquished because the owner can no longer care for them due to the person's health or even death. In fact, the number one reason people give for relinquishing their pet is moving. Some of the most wonderful companion animals in need of new homes are awaiting another chance to shower a family or individual with devotion, just as they did with their previous owner.

So, if adding a new pet to your home is on your 'to-do list' in the near future, consider adopting an adult or senior pet - you, too, can know the joy of hanging out with an adoring, mature four-footed friend and giving that adult pet a special, loving retirement home! That pet will thank you for your kind act!

Gayle Mansfield Irwin is an author and freelance writer with a strong background in animal welfare. Her credentials include work as a journalist and a humane and conservation educator as well as public relations professional. Her volunteer work includes helping transport pets going into rescue or going from rescue to their new homes. She is the author of Sages Big Adventure (Xlibris, July 2007), an inspirational book about her blind dog as well as Sage Learns to Share, a story about friendship and trust (Publish America 2009). She is also a contributing writer to two editions of Chicken Soup for the Soul. Provide your child or another dog lover (yourself perhaps!) with Ms. Irwin's unique inspirational, engaging books! Learn more at http://www.gaylemirwin.com. Testimonial: I received a copy of your book yesterday and read it in one sitting. It was so touching and such a great story about Sage. I loved it! Nadine Van Alstine, Special Education Teacher and Volunteer Coordinator - English Springer Spaniel Rescue, Rocky Mountain Chapter - Colorado