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Are you ready to adopt? -

First things first: are you ready to adopt? When adopting, you are making a commitment to care for an animal for the rest of their life. Be sure you're aware of the responsibilities of bringing home a new companion.

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Senior pets adjust at their own pace -

No matter the age, a new home is a huge transition for a pet. But it’s common that senior pets have spent time in another home before ending up at a shelter, so they may need more time to get used to a new home and family than a puppy or kitten.

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Carefully introduce them to other pets -

If you have other pets, they can become territorial when you introduce your new furry friend. To avoid any unwanted tension and aggression, take some steps to ease your new senior pet into the household.

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Maintain regular exercise -

Even if your pet isn't as spry as they once were, they still need physical activity. Exercise can help slow degenerative joint disease and keep your pet at a healthy weight.

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Choose senior pet food -

Since they're older, our furry friends have special nutritional needs. For example, senior dog food should have enough high-quality protein to help them maintain healthy muscles.

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There will be higher medical bills -

Older pets need routine medical care just like young pets do. However, senior pets have an increased risk of some diseases like cancer and arthritis, so you should take into account the costs of any treatment they may need.

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Most senior pets are potty trained -

Anyone who has ever potty trained a young pet knows it’s quite a process. But for the most part, when you adopt a senior pet, they'll already be potty trained.

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They’ll help you slow down -

Living in a busy world as we do, it can be hard to find time to relax and recharge. Senior pets, on the other hand, know how to take it easy, and will help you with that.

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They already know the ropes -

With age comes experience, and that's also applicable to pets. Older dogs are most likely already familiar with how to walk on a leash, so you probably don't have to worry about training them in this regard.

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They’ll go easy on the furniture -

From books to clothes and furniture, we all know how young pets love to chew and scratch on things. Fortunately, by the time they're older and wiser, they’re well past the destructive phase.

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They need less supervision -

Take your eyes off your newly adopted kitten or puppy, and they'll create havoc. In contrast, a senior pet can remain perfectly fine while you work in another room or run out for some errands.

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Tags and microchipping are a must -

Whenever you adopt a new pet, make sure to put a collar and tag on the animal before stepping outside the building. Remember: dogs and cats can be microchipped at any age after eight weeks.

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Companionship for all -

Senior pets are wonderful companions for everyone, from retired seniors to busy professionals.

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It’s never easy to say goodbye -

While some senior pets might live for five or more years after they come home with you, others will have even shorter lifespans. You need to understand that losing a pet takes an emotional toll.

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Older pets know how to chill -

Depending on their age and physical condition, some seniors may still be pretty spry. But most of them will be pretty mature and easygoing companions.

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You'll bring them a lot of happiness -

Many senior pets have had a traumatic past, such as losing their home or suffering abuse. Often, all senior pets need is to know that they’re safe and cared for. This will make them love you forever.

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It will make you feel good, too -

There's nothing like watching adopted senior pets live happily into their golden years. Knowing that you helped them will instantly make you feel good.

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What you see is what you get -

Senior pets have had plenty of time to decide what they like and don't like. So when you adopt pets of a certain age, there are fewer big surprises once you bring them home. For example, a low-key dog at the shelter will likely be just as low-key after adjusting to their new home.

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They're loyal -

Chances are that by adopting a senior dog or cat, you have rescued a loving animal from an unfortunate death. They can sense that they're being saved and will forever be loyal to you.

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Old pet, new tricks -

Contrary to popular belief, senior dogs can still learn new tricks. They also make excellent therapy dogs.

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No huge lifestyle change -

You don’t need to worry about puppy and kitten proofing your house and constant training. You'll be able to sleep soundly at night with a senior pet around.

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But you still need to prepare your home -

However, if you've never had a pet before, then there are some things you need to take into consideration. That includes keeping toxic foods, pet-unfriendly plants, and dangerous household items out of paw's reach.

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They have plenty of love left to give -

Pets come with a lifetime supply of unconditional love. So even if they're older, they'll still want to cuddle and play.

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They need your time and attention -

Even older dogs are social animals who want to be with you. Make sure you plan when to walk them, and always keep their other needs in mind as well.

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You’re giving a pet a second chance -

If your senior pet has been in a shelter, it’s certain that they’ve known hardship. Whatever the reason for them to have ended up there, adopting them means they get the love and comfort they deserve.

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Older pets are super friendly -

Compared to their younger counterparts, older pets bond with people more quickly. This is because they already know how to get along with other pets and different people.

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Save a life -

Senior dogs and cats are often the first to be euthanized in shelters, as people prefer to adopt puppies and kittens. By adopting a senior pet, you're actually saving a life. 

Sources: (The Farmer's Dog) (ASPCA) (Young at Heart)

See also: Strange pet laws around the world 

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