November is Adopt A Senior Pet Month! If you are ready to bring a new furry companion into your home, please consider adopting an older pooch. Read on as a local Crown Point, IN vet lists some of the advantages of adopting a pooch in his golden years.
They’re Adorable
Senior dogs are just as cute as puppies in their own way. Fido is pretty charming with grey in his muzzle! Pups in their golden years are also often very affectionate, and really just want to snooze and collect as many belly rubs as possible. It may not take your furry pal long at all to melt your heart!
They’re Very Calm
Puppies are adorable, but they’re also a lot of work. You’ll have to train your pet, housebreak him, puppyproof everything, and spend lots of time playing with the little guy. Older dogs, however, are usually more interested in napping than in tearing up your couch or eating your shoes. They’re a great match for people who aren’t able to keep up with a furry ball of zoom.
Prior Training
Another great benefit of adopting an older dog is the fact that they are usually already trained. Fido will most likely already know basic commands, like Sit , Stay , and Lay Down . Plus, you’ll be able to skip housebreaking. That’s definitely a plus!
No Surprises
One downside of adopting puppies is that you really can’t tell what your canine friend will look like when he’s fully grown, or, in many cases, how big he will get. With older pooches, there are no surprises. Fido is fully grown, and his personality will already have been fully developed.
Shorter Commitment
When you adopt a dog, you’re making a lifelong commitment to care for that pooch. With puppies, that could mean well over a decade of pet parenting. If you aren’t sure whether you should make that sort of commitment, consider giving a lovable older dog a great retirement.
It Feels Great
Older dogs often have a very hard time getting adopted. Giving that one lucky pooch can be very rewarding, and something to feel good about! You’ll be rewarded with tail wags and unconditional love, which are both precious in our book.
Please contact us, your Crown Point, IN vet clinic, with any questions or concerns about senior dog care. We are here to help!