November’s Patient of the month is ‘Charlie’ Willan. He is an almost 16 year old Domestic shorthair. His owner Shawna works at the SPCA and adopted him from there last year. Older pets, especially those with health conditions are often overlooked by potential adopters. We commend Shawna and those who adopt senior pets.
Here are some benefits to adopting senior pets:
Older dogs and cats have manners. Unlike puppies and kittens, many grown-up pets have spent years living with a family and being socialized to life with humans.
You don’t need to worry so much about finding your favorite pair of shoes or a table leg chewed beyond recognition. Chances are your senior dog or kitty has no urge to overturn your potted plant or shred the handmade quilt your grandma gave you.
What you see is what you get. A senior pet holds no surprises as to how big he might get, what color his adult coat will be, or whether his hips will be healthy. A senior pet comes to you with his own history, which makes his future much more predictable than that of an 8-week old puppy or kitten.
You can custom order your senior pet. If you’re looking for a short-haired cat, for example, or a kitty with no history of dental disease, you can search until you find an older pet with exactly those attributes. If you already have a cat and need your adoptive dog to get along with cats, again, you’ll have a much better chance of finding an older adoptive dog who is a perfect companion for your family.
Older pets are relaxing to hang out with. Senior dogs and cats have all the basics down and aren’t full of wild energy to burn. Because you’re not constantly chasing around or cleaning up after your older pet, you have a lot more time to spend finding fun things to do or just relaxing together.
Adopted senior pets are grateful for your kindness. Somehow, older pets seem to know you gave them a home when no one else would. Many new owners form a close bond very quickly with their senior dog or cat, because the pet shows them a level of attention and devotion that is unique to older adopted animals.
Charlie definitely lucked out and is now in a loving home with multiple brothers and sisters to keep him company. He has been through a lot in his life but remains a gentle fellow. Enjoy the picture of his resting on his couch at home.
