Animal shelters and rescue organizations often find difficulty in the adoption of senior pets. Our society values youth and beauty, even in animals, therefore senior pets are often overlooked when people consider adopting. However, like mature humans, senior pets offer positive life experiences and provide special companionship.
 
The month of November is recognized as Adopt-a-Senior Pet Month, a time that animal welfare organizations promote the benefits of adopting senior pets. There are several good reasons that people should adopt mature animals.

1. Older pets often come housebroken/litter box trained, and, in many cases, adult dogs have some basic obedience training, knowing “sit”, “stay” and “come.” Young ones require training. 
2. 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. Therefore, if you’re not terribly active, an older pet will likely suit your lifestyle.
3. Mature pets can be left alone for longer periods of time, primarily because they are already housetrained and way past the “chew everything in sight” stage. Therefore, you can leave older pets alone more often and trust them being in the house.
4. When you adopt an adult, what you see is what you get. Adopting a mature pet allows you to know its size and temperament, whereas obtaining a puppy or kitten can be a guessing game when trying to determine the animal’s ultimate temperament and size.
5. 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 likely saving a life and gaining a wonderful furry friend in the process!

 
In 2008, my husband and I adopted a 10-year-old cocker spaniel that had been used for breeding then then tossed away. We hesitated about adopting him, but we love spaniels, and recognizing his chances of being adopted were not great due to his age, we decided to bring him home and grant him his last few years with a loving family. That dog lived to be nearly 18 years of age! I think in part because we gave him a secure, devoted home, but also because he had a buddy with whom to share life.
 
In 2013, we again adopted after the passing of our 12-year-old springer spaniel (the cocker, Cody, was still with us and was nearly 15). Cody needed a pal and we needed another companion, recognizing Cody’s ever-increasing age. Therefore, we adopted Mary, a springer/cocker mix; she was nearly 7 years old at the time. We wondered if the 8-year-age difference might be a detriment, but, because of Mary’s low-key, sweet demeanor, the two got along very well, and I believe she enhanced the last 2+ years of Cody’s life, even likely extending his life. Because of her older age, Mary’s personality and size were already in place – there was no guessing. She has been a wonderful addition to our family, devoted, kind, friendly, and sweet, and she helped us cope with Cody’s passing in early 2016.
 
Some people think if an older dog or cat is in the shelter there must be something wrong with it – not so!  Many senior pets are relinquished because the owner can no longer care for them due to the person’s health or even death of the owner. Some of the most wonderful companion animals in need of new homes await another chance to shower a family or individual with devotion and affection, just as they did with their previous owner. 
 
Consider adopting an older pet next time you’re looking for another furry companion. You may ultimately be saving a life – and enriching your own!

There is no escaping aging, not for people and not for pets. As with us, when pets get older more health problems arise. Yet, again as with us, there are things we can do to help them age with grace and dignity. Here are some tips:

1. All pets need good nutrition, but for older ones, that’s vital. Many pet food companies make specialty foods for senior pets as well as food for special dietary requirements and problems, such as digestive issues.
2. As dogs and cats age, their immune system becomes weaker; that means greater potential health risks caused by ticks, fleas, worms, and other pests. Talk to your veterinarian about the safest preventative measures for your senior pet.
3. Consider visiting the vet with your aging pet twice a year instead of just once. Appointments include many of the same routine checks as for younger animals, but they may also include additional blood work, dental care, and exams for symptoms of issues common to seniors, such as arthritis and cancer.
   
4. Regular exercise is still important, helping your pet be mobile longer and preventing obesity, which can lead to diabetes and other medical issues. However, just because your dog could handle an hour-long walk a year ago doesn’t mean s/he can do that today -- watch for signs that s/he’s had enough and honor his/her abilities (or lack thereof) due to age.
5. Monitor your dog or cat for signs of arthritis – there are medications and other treatments to alleviate the pain. Visit your local pet supply store and talk with your veterinarian if your pet shows signs of joint pain.
6. Maintaining healthy teeth and gums is also crucial to your senior pet’s overall health. That can be accomplished with regular at-home brushing and professional cleanings by your vet.
7. Studies show that as pets age, their cognitive abilities can diminish. In fact, the term “doggie dementia” is not a laughing matter. Studies at Ohio State University College of Veterinary Medicine found signs of cognitive impairment in 28% of dogs ages 11-12 and 68% of dogs 15-16, and in 28% of cats ages 11-14 and 50% of cats 15 and older. (See more information at http://www.goodpetparent.com/2015/06/12/canine-cognitive-dysfunction/).  Although as with people, not much can be done to stop the progression of such a disease, there are medications available and engaging your pet in physical and cognitive activities can be beneficial.
8. If your pet’s behavior changes suddenly, there could be a medical issue going on (another good reason for twice a year checkups instead of annual ones). Ensure your senior pet’s overall health with regular visits to the vet, and if a behavior change arises, check for possible medical reasons.

We can enjoy our furry companions for many years, sometimes as long as 20, depending upon the type of pet and the breed of the animal.  I had a cat who lived to be nearly 19 years of age. She was adopted from an animal shelter when she was almost two and I was nearly 29 years old, providing me with many years of joy and love. After I married, my husband and I adopted a 10-year-old cocker spaniel from our local shelter; Cody is now nearly 18 years old. Although we never expected him to live this long, we are thankful for the years together. He is now deaf and nearly blind, but he still enjoys snuffling around the backyard and walking in the woods around our cabin on three acres of forest land. His pace is slow but his spirit maintains vitality.
 
Older pets give us deep devotion; we should return the sentiment. The Grey Muzzle Organization, dedicated to helping homeless senior dogs, offers a free downloadable e-book on how to care for an older dog. Visit http://www.greymuzzle.org/Resources/Senior-Dog-Care.aspx to get this great resource.

Another great online resource for caring for a senior pet is PetMD: http://www.petmd.com/dog/care/evr_dg_caring_for_older_dogs_with_health_problems#.
           
Enjoy the years with your furry friend, no matter its age –loyalty runs in their veins!

Call our house the ‘geriatric home for pets: Cody, our cocker spaniel, is more than 15 years old, and Mary, our springer, will be eight in February. Even our two sister cats are considered seniors these days, turning eight last August. We are all enjoying these “retirement years” in spite of some health challenges.

I know all about health challenges in seniors – especially people. My parents, in their mid-70s, have experienced some significant health issues these past few years, including a recent knee replacement for my mother. Just like with senior humans, there is challenge at times with senior pets. However, there is also great joy!

November is National Adopt a Senior Pet Month, and in honor of this special month, I wanted to point out some great reasons for bringing an older, more mature pet into the household:

• 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.
  
  
• If you are an active person, such as a hiker or runner, your best companion could be a 2- to 5-year-old dog who is just waiting for that energetic person to help HIM expend some energy! (plus, most likely, not in need of potty training!)
  
  
• 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. 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.

In my professional and personal life I’ve heard the “oohs” and “ahhs” regarding puppies and kittens, and the toutings of human parents who say “I want a puppy or kitten to grow up with my kids.” Truthfully, age makes no difference when it comes to humans and pets bonding – Cody was nearly 10 when we adopted him, and he is completely devoted to my husband and I – he even tolerates the cats! Cody has been with us for more than five years, and we don't regret bringing him into our household, even in the midst of a health challenge, just as we don't regret helping to care for our aging parents. In many ways, we saved Cody's life, and he has certainly enriched ours! When his little cocker head lays on my lap or his tan-colored body stretches on near me while on the couch and he looks at me with adoring eyes, my heart simultaneously melts and sings!

So, if adding a new pet to your home is on your ‘to-do list’ this month, 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!

It’s often their eyes, jade green or amber gold… Sometimes it’s their friendliness, rubbing against ankles and legs… It may even be their purring motors, soothing and loving as they snuggle into your neck. Whatever the “it” is, cats capture our attention and hearts.

Cats and humans have interacted for thousands of years. According to the American Society for the Prevention of Cruelty to Animals (ASPCA), the African wildcat became a frequent and welcome visitor to human habitation, attracted to, and preying upon, rodents that fed on stored grain. Cats also played an important part in Egyptian culture, often being mourned upon demise; cat mummies have been found in huge numbers in this part of the world. Short-haired cats arrived in Italy more than 2,000 years ago and reached England 300 years later. During the Renaissance cats appeared in paintings and literature as objects of affection, raising their status as household companions. Cats were later taken across the Atlantic Ocean to America and spread across the continent.

Although cats often survived simply on rodents during their earlier history, people today care for their cats much like dogs, providing food, shelter, vet care, and affection. Yet, cats seem to be considered more disposable than dogs, with only two percent of lost kitties being reclaimed by their owners. Each year shelters and rescues across the country take in about four million cats; more than 70 percent are euthanized, according to American Humane.

Many types of cats are brought into shelters. Some are purebred, such as Siamese or Persian, while others are typical tabbies. Some are kittens, some are adults, and others are seniors. About 25 percent of cats entering animal shelters are adopted.

No matter the age, type or sex, all cats need compassion and care. From nutrition and attention to exercise and veterinary care, our cats depend on us to ensure their health and happiness.

Caring for cats can be easier than caring for dogs. Fido, for example, needs his daily walk; cats are content with a catnip mouse or scrunchy ball to bat around. Litterboxes serve as lawns, and dry food can be left out for kitty to nibble on throughout the day. However, vet care is just as important as it is for dogs, from vaccinations against diseases like rabies to spaying and neutering to prevent additions to the pet overpopulation problem.

For more information on various cat care topics, visit the ASPCA website: http://www.aspca.org/pet-care/cat-care

November is Adopt a Senior Pet Month – many older cats find themselves in shelters and rescues because they are lost or because their family can no longer care for them. Consider giving an older cat a home this month and help alleviate the pressure on our rescues and shelters.

There are many benefits to adopting an older cat, including:

1. Adult cats get into less mischief than kittens.
   
   
2. They are also less maintenance.
   
   
3. Senior cats have come from a home – perhaps their owner died or became gravely ill – and therefore, “know the ropes” of household living… including warming one’s lap!
   
   
4. Adult cats are more independent and make great pets for people who work outside the home.
   
   
5. The majority are litter box trained.
   
   
6. Mature cats are less likely to be adopted; therefore, you could be saving a life!
   
   

Look into those big, bright eyes and hear that heartfelt purr – consider adopting an older cat this month and giving a special kitty all the care it needs… and you’ll receive lots of love, devotion, and joy in return!

When I turned 50, AARP tracked me down, just like the organization does for thousands of people. There are many benefits to becoming a member, not the least of which is travel discounts. So, becoming “mature” does have its benefits!

Similarly, there are many benefits to adopting and living with a “mature” dog. My husband and I adopted our cocker spaniel, Cody, from our local humane society when he was 10 years old. This sweet and spry little guy was used as a stud dog then tossed away after “services rendered”. Five years later, Cody continues to enjoy his “retirement” years with us, sleeping on warm blankets, taking walks in town, and visiting our cabin in the mountains... oh, yes and eating yummy treats (especially glucosomine!).

Greg and I have enjoyed sharing these years with him. Cody is now 15, and for the past few years he's declined in health. Yet, we are grateful for the time and thankful we didn't pass him up because of his age. Many people would... and do.

Mary, too, is somewhat older. This loving springer/cocker mix we adopted in February is seven years old... yet, outside, she still has the bounce that springers are known for, but she is quiet and mellow inside the home. Mary, too, has made a fine companion for us... and for Cody.

Through the years in both my professional and personal lives, I’ve heard the “oohs” and “ahhs” regarding puppies and kittens, and the toutings of human parents who say “I want a puppy to grow up with my kids.” However, in animal adoption, age makes little to 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 yanked from their situation and turned into a shelter or rescue; these older gents and ladies are eager to find that sense of camaraderie and security once again. Cody's devotion to my husband and I has been strong since he first came to live with us. In fact, I’m sure if he could talk, he would constantly tell us ‘thank you!’ – his wagging tail certainly does!

There are many benefits to adopting a mature dog. Here are just a few:

• Puppies require a great deal of attention and time, and for busy families, time is something of a commodity. Mature dogs can be left alone for longer periods and actually often enjoy ‘down time’. Now, this doesn’t mean they should be locked up in a kennel all day and it doesn’t mean they don’t need exercise – adult dogs just require LESS time and energy than puppies.
  
  
• Young ones require training, such as housebreaking, and a great deal of patience. Older dogs often come housebroken and, in many cases, they have some basic obedience training, such as“sit”, “stay” and “come”.
  
  
• What you see is what you get when you adopt an adult. Adopting a mature pet allows you to know its size and temperament, whereas adopting a puppy is sometimes a guessing game when it comes to the animal’s personality, height and weight.
  
  
• Older pets expend less energy and require less activity. Often, a simple walk around the neighborhood for an older dog is sufficient, and you won't wear out your arm in endless hours of playing fetch! So if you’re not terribly active, perhaps a bit older yourself, a more mature dog might suit your lifestyle. Older cats, too, tend to be loungers, so you don't have as much worry about entertaining them as you do with a kitten or young adult cat.
  
  
• Adopting an older pet is truly a selfless, often life-saving 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 is in rescue or at 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. 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. Additionally, the number one reason people provide for giving up their pet is “I'm moving.” So, chances are the reason the pet is in need of a new home at it's older age has nothing to do with a behavior or other animal issue – it's simply the result of circumstances... and a human's decision.

So the next time you have opportunity to provide a dog or cat with a home, please consider adopting an adult or senior pet. Like my husband and I, you, too, will know the joy of hanging out with an adoring, mature four-footed friend and giving that animal a special, loving retirement home!