People seldom think about adopting an older dog when they look to get a dog. At animal shelters these adult, or elderly, dogs usually don’t rate more than a cursory glance. It’s the cute puppies and lively young dogs that get the attention. And yet, giving an older dog a home can be the ideal answer for many people.
Why do people shun the older dog? They may have a picture of a headstrong dog set in its ways, or a smelly, sickly dog that needs a lot of care. While there are dogs like these, there are also many healthy older dogs that have years of companionship and much love to give a person or family.
There are a number of advantages in getting an older dog. No house training, no jumping, no chewing and they know (or should know) the basic rules of being a dog around humans. They have a calm demeanor which makes them ideal for a smallish property. These dogs have grateful eyes and can walk on a lead. They’re trusting and appreciative, often despite having had a difficult past.
Despite the advantages of acquiring an older dog, there are drawbacks to be aware of. Some dogs have either never been trained in basic obedience, or they have some character flaw, like jumping over fences or digging up the garden. So you need to get as much information as possible about the dog’s temperament and background before you make a commitment. Be particularly careful when people want to give away a dog ‘free to a good home’ without a very good reason. Try to differentiate between people who desperately need a good home for a dog, because of relocation, or for instance owners who died; and those wanting to get rid of a dog for some undisclosed reason.
Shelters usually have a wide choice of older dogs. The good shelters will evaluate the dog and will be able to tell you if you fit the profile of its ideal owner; whether it gets along with children, other dogs, cats and so on.
Have realistic expectations when you take your ‘new’ older dog home. Remember, the dog is set in its ways, and has to adjust to your life even more than you have to adjust to the dog. Be patient and understanding. Spend time to get to know each other.
Some tips to bear in mind when looking to adopt an older dog:
- Get as much information about the dog’s background as possible; it’ll help you understand the dog better.
- Ask if there are peculiarities and habits you should be aware of; for instance chasing cars.
- Get the relevant medical information – you don’t want to adopt a dog with expensive medication you’re not able or willing to pay for.
- Think careful whether the dog will suit your lifestyle and family. Take children and other pets into consideration.
- Ask for help. If you encounter a problem, ask people with experience in coping with older dogs.
All an older dog wants is to belong to a human family and spend its final years loved and cared for. When you provide a good home it doesn’t only benefit the dog; you do something for yourself also. You get a trusting companion who’ll give you lifelong devotion. It’s not a bad deal.
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