 |
|
|
|
Common Misconceptions About Older Dogs and Cats
People often have some misconceptions about adopting an older dog or cat. They often wonder why someone got rid of the older animal. They often think they could be getting into a risky adoption with a pet that has a behavior problem or even a genetic one. But most often that is not the case.
Just the Facts...
There are many reasons that older dogs or cats lose their homes. And most of them are not the animal's fault. In fact, it's usually something that changes in the life of the owner. Some of these changes might include changes in a work schedule, lifestyle, a new baby comes home, relocating to a place where pets aren't allowed, allergies, prospective spouse doesn't like pets, among others.
Advantages of Owning an Older Pet
There are notable advantages to owning an older pet. Older dogs most likely have had obedience training and house training. Older cats may already be litter box trained, and know where the scratching post is.
Make a Statement in Your Community
By adopting an older pet, you can make a statement about the considerate treatment of animals at any age. It will show others that older dogs and cats, like puppies and kittens, have a whole life to live and that you can provide an older pet a quality of life that is good with your compassion.
Ask a Vet
Veterinary attention and medication may not be any more needed for an older pet than a puppy. Before you adopt an animal, whatever the age may be, get a health profile from a vet. If the dog or cat is determined to have health issues, it is best before adoption to make a decision to commit yourself financially.
Teach an Old Dog (or Cat) New Tricks?
Training an older animal is just as easy as training a younger one. The saying "you can't teach a old dog (or cat) new tricks" just isn't true. In one case study, a 10 year old dog was put up for adoption because the owners felt they could not train her. But later on at the age of 14, she won awards for being first in her obedience training course because of the proper love and care she received.
Seniors Together
Older dogs are great for senior citizens because the senior person can relate to the dog more than a young puppy for various reasons. An older animal is more laid back and not as active as a puppy or kitten, just as an older person is less active than they once were as younger people. These commonalities enhance the life of the senior pet owner as well as the senior pet.
Other Great Sources of Information
The following links are great sources of information about how to go about selecting, training, and other types of help you may need with your companion.
Before taking on the responsibility for a living creature, there are many practical things to consider. The Newpet site helps focus on them and provides helpful information.
We suggest you review some other thought-provoking questions about deciding on the kind of dog that would be best suited for yourself and your family.
If you are thinking of adopting a dog via the Internet, please review the guidelines for Internet adoptions.
If you are planning to get an animal from a breed rescue organization, read the article "Purebreed Rescue Is a Source of Older Pets."
Here are some great training/instruction sites:
|
|
|
 Last Updated: 01/20/03
©2002 Hubris Communications
|
|
|
  
If you would like to adopt an animal from the Finney County / Garden City Animal Shelter, fill out the form below and see what friends we have available!
|
   |
