by Jerica Collins

Created on: May 12, 2011

Adopting a new pet is always a fun, but sometimes a tough selection process. There is a lot to consider, especially being sure that a new pet fits into your lifestyle. When you figure everything that is required of a pet, you will find that many of the traits you may be looking for are found in a senior pet.

Energy Level

A senior, or mature adult, animal is generally calmer. These dogs/cats are usually content with only minimal exercise and are happy to lounge around with you. They are not likely to want to jump all over you, they don't require long games of fetch nor running miles before they tire. Generally they will occasionally play, but not beg for it. With this lower energy level they are less likely to roam away from home as well. Likely you won't have to worry about an older pet knocking over small children or jumping all over your 80 year old grandma. Some even become fantastic therapy dogs due to their mellow nature.

Spayed/Neutered

When adopting a senior pet you are likely to find most are already fixed. This is one expense you won't have to worry about and there is the bonus that because an older pet has likely been neutered for many years the bad behaviors caused by hormones when intact are either nonexistent or reduced greatly. These behaviors would include spraying, humping, howling or yowling, and looking for mates.

Vaccinations

An older pet has long ago received the required puppy or kitten shots and so will only require the yearly distemper shot and 3 year (depending on area) rabies shot. Many times when adopting an animal distemper is already given leaving only a rabies shot for the new owner to get for their pet.

Training

Much of the time an older pet has been kept in a home for many years and has already been housebroken, taught basic commands and even some tricks, basic manners and potentially trained for various other things. It is also not true that an old dog can't be taught new tricks, in fact it may be easier to train an old dog some things, as their minds are not focused on playing, finding mates or simply expending extra energy. Many senior dogs also enjoy the tasty treats and praise. 

Commitment

Though it is sad that your elderly new pet may not live as long as a spry pup, the advantage is that there is less length of commitment. If a puppy is too long of a commitment, a senior dog would be a better choice. It is easier to know what you plan to do in the next 5-10 years than the next 15-20 years. Always be sure you are prepared for your pet to live longer than expected however. The senior years are the best years of a dogs life so you may get better years even if shorter out of a senior pet

Every pet regardless of age deserves a family that loves it and will care for it how every many years are left. A senior citizen pet will make a great addition if you are looking for the qualities they possess. Care for them properly and you can get some amazing years from your newly adopted companion. 

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