When you’re looking for a family pet, you might be imagining a kitten or a puppy. While these cute little bundles of fur certainly have appeal, remember that many amazing mature animals are in need of a loving home. What’s more, there are definite advantages to giving a senior pet a fresh start. Here are some you’ve probably thought of—and a few that you may not have.
1. Older pets are less energetic
Older dogs and cats don’t have the same level of energy as puppies and kittens. They’re not as easily distracted by what’s going on around them and are not determined to get into everything they can. While young pets can be entertaining, the benefit of a less energetic pet is that you can enjoy some downtime with them. You’ll be free to take a daily walk with your dog at a more leisurely pace, engage in some gentle indoor play with your cat, or chill out in front of the TV with them.
2. Older animals have a mature personality
Senior animals have finished developing their personality, so what you see is what you get, as the saying goes. When you’re searching for a pet to adopt, you’re ideally looking for a perfect match between yourself and an animal. Any reputable shelter will be able to help by telling you their observations of the unique personality of each of their residents. Getting to know your new pet’s temperament can be a wonderful journey of discovery and, as you bond with your pet, you may find some character traits that you have in common.
3. Often, they are already trained
One of the best bonuses of welcoming a mature animal is that most come house-trained. Dogs who come to animal shelters with experience living in a home will know enough to do their business outdoors. Similarly, indoor cats will have learned to use a litter box. Furthermore, your new family member will likely understand that scratching the furniture or chewing your favorite pair of shoes is not allowed. This means that you need not spend time, energy, and money pet-proofing the premises. You’ll also sleep better knowing that they’re not tearing up the place.
4. Older pets are still teachable
An older dog or cat with experience in a home will likely come with a few manners too. Granted, you may have little information about their background to go on, but chances are, they’re accustomed to following a few rules. This—along with the fact that their brains have finished growing and their attention span has strengthened—makes them very teachable. In addition to showing them where they can and can’t go in the house, you can also teach them some tricks. Plus, a mature dog or cat can make a terrific therapy animal.
5. They are not as much work
A senior pet isn’t as much work as a puppy or kitten. You don’t have to pay attention to older pets every minute that they’re awake, and there’s no need for training beyond orienting them to a few household dos and don’ts—which they’ll pick up fairly quickly without a lot of correction. You’ll find that they settle into the routine in their adopted home much faster than a younger pet would. Your new dog or cat will pay attention to the habits of other family members and readily take their cues about what’s expected of them.
6. Senior pets are still cute
Older pets can be just as cute and appealing as baby animals. Their individual quirks make them every bit as adorable as their younger counterparts, and each has their own distinctive coat and coloring. Regardless of their age, each dog and cat will retain their particular cuteness. Also, most mature dogs have a touch of grey on their muzzle that amps up their attractiveness.
7. Older pets make great companions
Your main reason for adopting a pet is likely for companionship, either for yourself or for your family members. Understandably, you want a dog or cat who is going to live for a long time. A senior pet still has many years of love and companionship to offer, particularly if you provide them with proper veterinary care. One quality that older animals all have is that they are exceedingly loyal—another reason why they make excellent companions.
8. Senior pets can offer you a new lease on life
Have you looked into the eyes of an adult dog or cat up for adoption? You may find one with an expression of eagerness or sadness. Mature animals are searching for a new forever home, and you can give them another chance for a great life in a loving environment. Kittens and puppies are the first to get picked for adoption, so a senior pet may wait a while for the right person—maybe you!—to come along.