Category: Adoption Advice

Age isn’t always just a number.

By Tim Barribeau

Melanie DeFazio / Stocksy
If you’re looking to adopt a pet, it can be hard to ignore the incomparable cuteness of a puppy or kitten when deciding who to take home. But the process of figuring out which animal to adopt comes down to more than just losing yourself in that fresh puppy smell or tiny kitten beans — sometimes a grown-up pet might suit you and your lifestyle better. Plus, adults and senior pets often need homes more urgently than than puppies and kittens do. So, how do you tell which is right for you?

Adopt a puppy or kitten if:

You have the time and energy for training.

Probably the biggest and most intensive part of adopting a young animal is that you will need to be involved in their training. This is more of a thing with dogs than with cats (who hopefully will be at least litter box trained coming home), and a big part of your initial relationship with a young pet will be training them to be well-behaved members of your family. For dogs in particular, that means housebreaking; basic commands (sit, stay, heel); leash training; and socialization with other people and animals. For cats, when they’re young is the best time to train them to accept being handled by humans, especially in their sensitive spots like stomachs and feet, and in what types of play are appropriate so that they don’t think that mauling your hand is good fun.

You don’t mind cleaning.

Let’s be honest: You’re going to be cleaning up after your pet a lot over the years, and it starts at full speed with a puppy or kitten. Even if you’re well on your way to a housebroken or litter-trained animal, sometimes a small critter just can’t make it to where they need to do their business in time. Combine that with younger animals often having more sensitive stomachs (which can mean the occasional vomit or diarrhea cleanup) and you should be prepared with a stash of cleaning supplies on hand. Luckily this (usually) settles down over time.

You’re at home more often.

Young animals need more consistent care and attention. Especially if you’re fostering baby animals, but even for the first year or two of life, a puppy or kitten needs to be around people frequently. Part of this is just managing their needs so that a puppy can be taken out as often as they need to go to the bathroom, but part of it is also socialization and enrichment. The more time they spend playing with people as young animals, the more comfortable they are around people as grown pets — and a tired and well-entertained animal is less destructive than a bored one. As Dilara Göksel Parry, certified cat behavior consultant at Feline Minds and Cat Town Oakland’s Program Manager explains, kittens are “go, go, go nonstop play,” and they need a commensurate level of attention.

You want to get ahead of vet fees.

Pet insurance is an important investment in the wellbeing of your animal. It can mean the difference between spending tens of thousands on an important procedure or just a couple of hundred on a deductible. Getting your pet on pet insurance when they’re young means you can get them in the system before they get penalized for “pre-existing conditions” and make sure they’re covered from the start.

You don’t mind bite marks.

Teething means chewed-up shoes, power cables, table legs, toes…doesn’t matter if it’s a cat or a dog; those tiny needle teeth are going to be gnawing on something, no matter how many chew toys you put in front of them. Do your best to manage it with bitter spray, but also be aware that it’s mostly unavoidable.

Adopt an adult animal if:

You want a (mostly) trained animal.

Most adult animals will come to you with at least some level of training. Dogs will probably be housebroken (and might know some basic commands) and cats will be litter-box trained. There will be some outliers in this regard, but chances are you can rely on them knowing the basics. You may end up wanting to augment their training further, but having an animal who knows when they need to be let out is a huge help.

You want an animal with a known personality.

As Parry explains, if you want an animal who’s going to match a certain type of behavior, go with an older one. “The most common behavior adopters want is lap cat. If you want a lap cat, get an adult who’s already demonstrating that behavior for you,” she says. “A lot of people think ‘I can mold the kitten the way I want’ — they think this about puppies, too. And that’s just actually not really what happens. We can certainly encourage them to do behaviors we like and we can train them. But temperament-wise, there’s so much there we’re not in control of.”

You want to skip the fees.

In order to help adults go to loving homes, many adoption agencies will lower or waive the fees associated with older animals. This can often mean hundreds of dollars in savings from the get-go for an animal who is already microchipped, spayed or neutered, and up to date on all their shots. In the grand scheme of the life of a pet, this may not end up being a huge difference, but when you’re first getting your home set up with everything you need, it’s pretty significant.

You want to support animals who might not be able to find a home.

It’s harder to find homes that are willing to take adult (and even more so senior) pets. They can end up in adoption centers for any number of reasons, but they deserve a loving home just as much as any puppy or kitten. If you want to help an animal who may otherwise be passed over for adoption, bringing home an adult animal is definitely a way to do so. And they’ll provide you with just as much companionship and love as a baby.

You work longer hours.

Adult animals don’t need the frequent hands-on care the way that extremely young ones do. Adult cats are generally fine left to their own devices during an entire workday (they’ll probably just find a warm spot and sleep until late afternoon anyway), and an adult dog may only need to be briefly let out or walked during the course of a day. If you already have a schedule that you want to try and stick to, an adult animal may be the way to go.

You want a quieter household.

Pets tend to mellow out as they age. Where a puppy or a kitten might tear around the house at all hours, hurling themselves at anything they think will give them even a moment’s entertainment, an adult pet will probably be a lot happier to just flop in a comfy spot for much of the day. That’s not to say that a grown cat won’t decide at 3am to have a bad case of the zoomies, or that your adult dog won’t bark its head off at a squirrel that goes past the window — quieter isn’t the same as quiet.

Adopting a pet is one of the most rewarding things you can do and brings so much enrichment to a household. Deciding between taking home a puppy or a kitten vs an adult is a big decision and can significantly change your day-to-day care of the animal. One isn’t better than the other; they just need different things and suit different people — so be sure to weigh your potential pet’s needs to figure out which makes the most sense for you.

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Tim Barribeau is a freelance writer, editor, cat dad, and “help your boyfriend buy a suit that actually fits for once” consultant. He was previously the Style and Pets editor at Wirecutter, and has bylines at a bunch of publications that don’t exist anymore (and a couple that still do).

Considering adopting a cat? Here’s why bonded kitties, senior cats, and felines with FIV make just as amazing pets as any other.

By Madeleine Aggeler

Narucha Klinudom / Shutterstock
“Adopt a Less-Adoptable Pet” week is an event held the third week of September every year to celebrate those animals who are often considered harder to adopt out. Bonded pairs, senior cats, and cats with health issues are often considered “less adoptable.” Raising awareness about the unique joys and rewards of these so-called “less adoptable” animals is important not just for individuals who may be debating whether to welcome one into their home, but also for shelters and rescues that sometimes don’t give these animals as much of a chance as others because they don’t believe people want to adopt them. This is a misconception that Kristen Hassen, the Director of American Pets Alive! and Human Animal Support Services, says she and her organizations have been fighting against for years.

“At the heart of all the work we do is this belief that people do want the opportunity to help out an animal who’s had a hard life, a trauma history, or has special physical needs,” says Hassen.” We have to start embracing that instead of making the decision for the public about what they may or may not want.” Below are some of the kinds of cats who may be considered difficult to adopt out, but who, like any animal, can thrive in the right home.

Cats in Bonded Pairs

What are Bonded Pairs?

Two cats who were raised together or lived together for many years can often become what is called a “bonded pair.” The pair will spend most of their time together, and often run to each other’s side when the other is in distress. When a bonded pair arrives at a shelter or rescue, the staff will often try to re-home them together, a measure that is necessary not just for their emotional health, but also their physical health.

“Separating a truly bonded pair is heartbreaking,” says Hassen, who adds that with cats in particular, separating a bonded pair can be life threatening. “I’ve seen on more than one occasion two cats that were bonded actually die when they were separated.”

Benefits on Bonded Pairs

For adopters who aren’t sure whether they’re ready to welcome twice as many cats into their home as they had been planning on, consider the benefits: bonded pairs will be able to keep each other company when you’re gone, and they’ll likely adjust to their new home more quickly since they have each other. Plus, you’ll be able to save twice as many animals as you had been planning on.

At the end of the day, Hassen says, every animal ends up being a special needs pet in one way or another. “They have special needs because they’re all individuals. What we want people to do is, when they do look for their next pet, consider all of those animals that are waiting for a person just like them, and who want to be seen, and are often not seen in the midst of all the puppy and kitten adorableness.”

Senior Cats

Oftentimes, kittens are scooped up from shelters quickly. Not only are the tiny balls of fur impossibly charming, adopters sometimes worry that they’ll have less time with an older cat, or that an older cat will soon develop health issues, and they’ll rack up sizable medical bills. But senior cats are a great option for people who may want a more mellow, low-maintenance companion. Senior cats often already know how to use the litter box, are socialized with people and other pets, and are generally less hyper than a tiny kitten.

What’s more, for those concerned that they may enjoy less time with their senior cat because of its age, consider that cats typically have fairly long life expectancies. Plus, any animal you bring into your life will eventually require some medical care. No matter what cat you adopt, pet insurance is a great option to offset some of those potential costs.

Cats with Chronic Health Issues

Although some adopters may be concerned about the time, money, and effort that goes into caring for a cat with chronic health issues — like mobility issues, missing limbs, or a condition that requires regular medical care — Hassen underscores that special-needs pets are just like any other pets. Special needs pets, she says, adapt to their environment and adapt to their family. “The fear is a lot greater than the reality,” Hassen says. “The vast majority of people who take home a pet with special needs are glad that they did.”

One condition unique to cats is the feline immunodeficiency virus, also known as FIV. It is primarily transmitted through bite wounds, so as long as they are kept safe and mostly inside, FIV positive cats can go symptom free for years, and live long and healthy lives.

If you’re ready to adopt a less-adoptable cat, start your search.

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Madeleine Aggeler is a freelance journalist and copywriter in Washington, D.C. Previously, she was a writer at New York magazine’s The Cut. She lives with her dog, Cleo, who works primarily as a foot warmer.

Sasha Kim/Pexels
Congratulations! You are the proud new parent of an adopted cat or kitten (or are just about to become one) and are looking for advice on how to ease your feline friend into their new home. Good news: You can do lots to help your new housemate adjust with the help of our guidelines below.

How to prepare for a new cat or kitten

This new cat checklist is a comprehensive guide to everything you need to do when welcoming a new cat (or kitten) into your home.

1. Cat-proof your place

One of the first things you should do when bringing home a new cat is cat-proof your house and be aware of common household hazards, including keeping breakable objects out of reach, covering electric cords, cables, and phone chargers, tossing or giving away toxic plants (which you can learn more about here), putting away household cleaners, and hiding sharp objects.

2. Contact a veterinarian

You can also prepare for a new cat or kitten by scheduling a trip to the veterinarian. Kittens and cats alike should see a vet within the first week of coming to their new home as they will likely need some vital vaccines, such as those that protect against feline herpes virus, feline leukemia, rabies, and other diseases. Kittens are also particularly vulnerable to parasites, so may need regular fecal exams and deworming. They should also be spayed or neutered if old enough.

3. Plan for a safe ride home

One of the most important things to remember is that it’s completely normal for a cat to be scared when they enter your home, especially after a car trip. Unlike dogs, most cats do not enjoy traveling in a car, so do not leave them loose or try to hold them in your lap or on the seat next to you when bringing them home. They might panic and cause an accident or try to hide and get stuck under a seat. In a car, it is safest for them to secure them in a cat carrier lined with an easily washable towel or a few sheets of newspaper. They may complain by meowing (some more loudly than others), but some cats relax with soothing music or if you sing along.

4. Create a quiet spot

Once home, it can take days or weeks for them to adjust to their new environment; Let them adjust at their own pace. You can make your new cat’s transition to your household as comfortable as possible by selecting a quiet, closed-in area, such as your bedroom or a small room away from the main foot traffic, and set it up with everything they’ll need, including a litter box, bed, scratching post, toys, food, and water. Be sure that this “starter room” has very secure window screens — even if they’re quite happy in their new homes, new kitties can pull off a window screen (often seemingly miraculously) and take off. The escapee is then disoriented and can very likely become lost and injured.

5. Prep the litter box

If possible, make the starter room the permanent location of the litter box. If you plan on moving the litter box after bringing home your new cat, you’ll need two litter boxes; keep the first litter box in the starter room and put a new litter box in the new location. Once the cat is using the new litter box, you can slowly move the first litter box closer and closer to the new one. When they are next to each other, remove one box.

Once your kitty has adjusted and seems relaxed and happy in their starter room, you can open the door and let them explore the rest of your home for the first time. If you have other pets, though, see the section below about introducing your pets.

Introducing your cat to their new home

Even the friendliest cats often need a few days to feel safe in a new environment, so if you have other pets, don’t introduce them to your new pet immediately. You can find more detailed instructions for introducing your new cat or kitten to resident cats here, but there are a few essential things to know.

• Keep pets separated in their own room
• Shelter/rescue cats should wait 14 days to prevent disease
• Connect with your cat one on one first
• Give them plenty of time to adjust to new sights and smells
• Initial introductions between pets should be done through a barrier
• Supervise all interactions between pets
• It’s best to keep your new cat indoors

First, as mentioned above, keep your new pet totally separated in their own room. For multi-cat households, when your new cat or kitten is from a shelter, rescue, or kennel, this separation period should be 14 days to prevent spreading contagious diseases during their incubation period. Before making any pet introductions, let the new cat get to know and trust you, and let your other pets discover they are still loved — although they smell a new furry one in the house, they are not going to lose their home and family.

Allow your pets lots of time to sniff under the door to the new pet’s starter room. You can try switching rooms for a while and let the new cat explore the house while your current pet sniffs around the room.

As they progress, you can introduce them at a distance. For example, you can place a baby gate across the doorway of the safe room and open the door for an initial greeting. Once your pets can do this calmly, you’ll be able to let them interact in the same space, but you’ll want to micromanage these interactions and keep food and litter box areas separate.

Keep cats indoors for safety

It’s also best to keep your new cat indoors. Despite stories about cats finding their way home from far distances, in reality, your new cat is very likely to become lost. Young kittens should be kept indoors until they are fully grown (12 months), but if your new adult cat will be free roaming, wait at least four weeks before allowing your adult cat to go outside to give them a chance to bond to your family. Do consider the advantages of keeping your new cat indoors always — outdoor cats are exposed to disease, cat fights, dogs, and other wild animals, and are more likely to be hit by cars.

If your adult cat must go outside, consider a cat-escape-proof enclosure to keep your cat contained and predators out — like a catio. An enclosure with a top will protect your cat from flying predators and those that can climb and jump like coyotes. Adding a cat-proof fence (like one with an angled-in topper or smooth vinyl over seven feet high) offers some protection too. Bringing your cat inside at night may also reduce the risk of them being killed by predators. To train your cat to come in at night, set their daily feeding time to be at the hour when you want them to come inside for the night. You can reinforce coming in with treats as well.

What should you expect? The adjusting period

Patience is the name of the game when helping your new cat adjust to your home.

Is your new cat not eating?

Even when you give your new cat space in their starter room, they commonly refuse to eat in new environments due to stress. Change is hard, not only in an environment but also in a diet — you may be feeding your new cat food different than what they got in a shelter or, if they were a stray, they may not be used to cat food at all. To help your new cat transition, offer food only at set meal times. You can also add cat food toppers or try different feeding set-ups (like a plate on the counter) to entice your cat to eat. If your cat has gone two to three days without eating, you should see a veterinarian. For kittens, the timeline is shorter — they should see a vet if they haven’t eaten in 24 hours.

Is your new cat hiding?

Your new cat may also hide at first; hiding is a normal reaction for a cat to have to an unfamiliar environment. You can help your cat by providing a cat carrier, tunnel, covered cat bed, or other safe places for your new friend to hide. Keep their resources, including a litter box, food, and water, close to that spot until they’re more comfortable coming out.

Are they taking too long to adjust?

It will take time for a new cat and any resident pets to adjust to their new situation. It could take several weeks to several months — every cat is different. Tempting though it may be, rushing this process can be a mistake. The slow approach is worth the extra time and will allow you to ensure your pets are all happy and comfortable in your home.

If you bring home a kitten and have an older cat at home, you may want to take some extra care in making these introductions. For example, a kitten will have far more energy than your older cat, so you’ll want to play with the kitten more so they don’t bother your older cat.

Soon, you should see signs that your new cat is adjusting to your home, including an increased appetite, playfulness, and a calmer demeanor (which can sometimes mean less meowing). You can also keep an eye out for body language that indicates they’re happy and relaxed, like a flat back, their head held high, soft lips, and their ears up. They may knead their paws and have their whiskers forward. Purring is also a very good indicator that your new cat is happy and settling into your home.

FAQs (People Also Ask):

What should you do when first bringing home a new cat?

Check out our New Cat Checklist for a comprehensive guide to everything you need to do when welcoming a new cat into your home.

What should I feed my new cat Or kitten?

Kittens should eat wet kitten food at first, then transition to solid food. You can learn more about cat nutrition here.

When should I schedule my new cat or kitten’s first veterinary visit?

Kittens and cats should see a vet within the first week of coming to their new home, as they will likely need vaccines and could need other treatments.

How do I introduce my new cat or kitten to existing pets?

You can introduce your new cat or kitten to resident pets at a distance. For example, place a baby gate across the doorway of the safe room and open the door.

What are some common household hazards I should be aware of when bringing a cat home?

Common household hazards include breakable objects, electric cords, cables and phone chargers, toxic plants, household cleaners, and sharp objects.

Can I let my new cat outside?

Don’t let your new cat go outside when you first bring them home. Young kittens should be kept indoors at least until they are full-grown (around 12 months).

References

Intercat aggression in households following the introduction of a new cat

The Social Cat – Who to Adopt, How to Introduce Cats to Prevent Disaster

Determinants of Cat Choice and Outcomes for Adult Cats and Kittens Adopted from an Australian Animal Shelter

The Taming of the Cat

Targeting care for senior cats and their caretakers

What to expect when bringing home a new dog

Bringing your new dog home is an exciting and fulfilling experience, but it can also be a bit daunting, especially if you’ve never shared your home with a furry companion. If you’ve adopted a new dog or even if you’re still thinking about it, figuring out what to expect when you bring home a rescue dog, shelter dog, or dog from any other background can help you prepare. (BTW, you can find your dream dog with our search tool). Here are some tips to get your relationship off on the right foot (or paw, as the case may be).

1. Be prepared

Before you adopt your dog, know which training method you’re going to use (we love clicker training and other positive-reinforcement techniques) and read up on it so you can employ the philosophy from day one. Research dog care and nutrition in advance as well, and decide which food you’ll feed your dog and how many times a day they’ll eat (usually twice). And think about the details, like how you’ll manage driving your newly adopted dog home and how you’ll keep them safe in your home. The more prepared you are, the smoother your new family member’s transition will be.

2. Be flexible

While it’s good to be prepared, remember that your new dog is a living being with a mind of their own and may express preferences that run counter to your plans. If the sleeping arrangements you’ve laid out just don’t work for them, you may have to shuffle things around a bit. If the sound of the clicker scares them to death, a different training method may be in order. If they’re used to a completely different environment, they’ll likely need time to adjust.

Maintain a good sense of humor and try not to get exasperated. The transition period won’t last forever. Take it slow: get a routine set that works for both of you and introduce your pet to new people, animals, and places after you’ve had a chance to bond over the first week or two. Soon you and your new buddy will have a well-established routine.

3. Shop for the basics

You’ll need a leash, collar, a bed, food and water dishes, and, of course, food (to pick the best food for your new dog, check out our guide to choosing the right food for your dog). It’s a good idea to have these items in place even before you bring your new dog home.

One other thing to buy right away: an ID tag. Put the tag on your dog immediately — we can’t stress that enough.  You’ll notice that a crate isn’t on the list of things to buy in advance. If you plan on crate training, it’s best to take your dog with you when you shop for the crate so you can find the correct size.

4.  Make sure all family members are on board

Set some ground rules and make sure everyone in the family agrees to follow and enforce them. For instance, if you don’t want your new pup on the couch, all the training in the world won’t help if your daughter lets them sit there with her when you’re not home. Also, if caring for your dog will be a family effort, be certain everyone understands and agrees to their particular roles and responsibilities.

5. Help your new pal adjust

Over the first few days to the first few weeks, your new dog will go through an adjustment period. Keep in mind the “3-3-3 rule” for adopted dogs: expect your new dog to feel overwhelmed or nervous for three days, take three weeks to settle in, and need three months to build trust and bond with you.

You may also notice some symptoms of anxiety, including a lack of appetite and suppressed bowel habits. Your dog may even hide under or behind furniture or stay in one particular room for a few days. Don’t be alarmed, as this is absolutely normal behavior, but you may be wondering how to comfort a dog who is feeling this way and help them adjust to cohabitating with you. By showing your new friend patience and understanding, you’ll be helping them through a tough, scary time and showing them how wonderful their new home really is.

6. Establish a schedule of feeding and walking and be consistent

Try to walk and feed your new pup at the same times each day, and signal the walking and feeding times with the same keywords every time. For instance, right before you feed them, you might say, “Dinner time!” A reliable routine is an important tool in successfully integrating your new dog into your family and helping them feel secure.

7. Set aside time to bond

Spend some quiet time with your dog each day, petting them gently and speaking in a soothing voice. Touch is an incredibly powerful communication method that is almost impossible to misunderstand. Show your dog they’re safe and loved, and your relationship will get off to a beautiful start.

8. Everyone needs time alone

Your dog is no exception! Give them time every day to be alone and explore their new surroundings. Observe from a distance to make sure they’re safe but not close enough to intrude on their “me” time.

9. Slowly introduce them to new things and people

We know you’re dying to show your amazing new family member to all of your other family and friends, but take it slowly. A good rule of thumb is to introduce no more than one new person to your dog each day. Also, save the first trip to the dog park or any other busy environment for a few weeks later to avoid overwhelming and confusing them.

10. Get them a tune-up

Schedule a first visit to your dog’s new veterinarian during the first week (or immediately upon adoption if you have other pets at home or suspect your new pup might be ill). Bring any and all medical and vaccine records supplied by the shelter or rescue from which you adopted your dog. Many veterinarians will even provide a free first checkup to folks who adopt a pet. This first visit is a great time to get clues about your dog’s personality and history, so don’t be afraid to ask lots of questions. Also, have your dog microchipped right away (if they’re not already), so you can be reunited if you ever get separated.

FAQs (People Also Ask):

How can I prepare my home before bringing my newly adopted dog?

Buy a leash, collar, bed, food and water dishes, and food before your dog comes home. If you’ll crate train, bring your dog to shop for the crate to find the right size.

What is the 3-3-3 rule for adopted dogs?

Expect your new dog to feel overwhelmed or nervous for three days, take three weeks to settle in, and need three months to build trust and bond with you.

How long does it take an adopted dog to adjust to a new home?

Every dog is different, but over the first few days to the first few weeks, your new dog will go through an adjustment period.

What should I feed my newly adopted dog?

Research dog nutrition to decide what and how often to feed your dog. To help pick the best food for your new dog, check out our guide to choosing the right food for your dog.

Want to track your progress?

Check out our five pet parent checklists that cover everything from heartworm to house rules.

References:

Determining factors for successful adoption of dogs from an animal shelter

Australian Animal Protection Society – Dog Adoption Booklet

Returning a Shelter Dog: The Role of Owner Expectations and Dog Behavior

Improving the Re-homing Success of Shelter Dogs: A Brief Guide

A New Perspective on Assessing Shelter Dogs for Adoption Suitability

Factors affecting time to adoption of dogs re-homed by a charity in the UK

by Karen B. London, PhD

Léa Jones/ Stocksy
Let’s face it: we all love puppies. Young dogs tend to be adopted from shelters and rescue groups quickly, while senior dogs take longer. According to the American Society for the Prevention of Cruelty to Animals, senior dogs have an adoption rate of 25 percent, while younger dogs, including puppies, have a 60 percent adoption rate. This means far too many great dogs are passed over simply because they are older. That’s a loss not only for those dogs but also for potential adopters.

There’s a beauty in older dogs that may not be obvious to people who have never lived with one. Age has its exquisite aspects. The gray muzzle, drooping face, scars, bumps and other cosmetic irregularities may seem like imperfections, but they can also be viewed as the markers of love and time. Not all dogs make it into advanced old age. When they do, it’s a blessing.

November is adopt-a-senior-pet month, and also the month during which we give thanks. So, let’s look at the many reasons to be thankful for older dogs.

Understanding senior dogs

Senior dogs tend to be different from younger dogs in a number of ways. For one, senior dogs are calmer, more relaxed, and sleep more than younger dogs, which means pet parents of senior dogs also get to sleep more (which is reason enough for most people to consider senior dogs a blessing). Older dogs are still playful but generally spend less time playing than puppies, who seem to spend every waking moment playing. Senior dogs are generally less interested in novel experiences, running around, and exploring and are more interested in (and even grateful for) the little pleasures, such as a scratch behind the ear, a good spot in the car, a snooze in a sunny spot, and time together doing anything — or nothing at all. On the other hand, senior dogs may require patience as they move slowly or take a long time to lie down, rise, or come to you.

At what age is a dog considered a senior?

A dog is considered a senior when they are at least 75 percent of the way to their expected lifespan. The actual age that qualifies this stage is different for different types of dogs. Some breeds that live an especially long time may not become seniors until they are 12 years old, while others may enter the senior zone much sooner, even as early as age five. Smaller dogs generally live longer than larger dogs, so it is typical for large dogs to be considered seniors years before their smaller buddies are. Many shelters and rescues, however, consider any dog who is seven years or older to be a senior.

Benefits of adopting a senior dog

There are plenty of benefits to adopting a senior dog. Here are just a few:

You know what you’re getting

You don’t have to wonder how a senior dog’s personality will develop; they already are who they are! They may take a few days, weeks, or months to settle in, so you may see their behavior change as they become comfortable in their new home, but that’s true for a dog of any age. Knowing what you see is what you get when adopting a dog is wonderful. You can adopt the dog you connect with upon meeting them without worrying about who they will become in the future.

They have fewer exercise or activity needs

On the practical side, senior dogs generally don’t need as much exercise — and certainly not first thing in the morning. (There are exceptions to every rule, however.) It’s a lot of work to exercise dogs, whether that means going on walks, playing games of fetch, taking them running, or any other high-octane activity. Older dogs still need to get out and have adventures, but those experiences don’t need to be nearly as long or as intense, which can feel a lot more manageable for many potential adopters. Senior dogs are content to hang out relaxing for more hours each day than younger dogs, which tends to make them a little easier to integrate into our lives. They are also not constantly looking for something to do or getting into trouble because they’re bored.

You get to skip destructive puppy stages

Whether puppies are chewing on your furniture, shoes, or hands, it’s not the most fun experience. If you are adopting a senior dog, those destructive puppy stages are in the past. Somebody else had to deal with the damage, but you can enjoy the company of a dog who knows better what to do with their teeth.

You’ll be saving a life

As much as we wish it weren’t true, there is not always enough space in shelters for every dog, and far too often, shelters have to make tough choices about which dogs to save. Sadly, older dogs’ age is often a strike against them simply because they are not as frequently adopted. That means that if you adopt a senior dog, you may very well be saving that dog’s life. It’s hard to think of a better, more compelling reason to choose a senior dog than that.

Many senior dogs are available

Because many people are only interested in adopting puppies, there’s sometimes a lot of competition for these youngsters. If you want to adopt a senior dog, you can usually have your pick of dogs. That means you can be choosy about characteristics that matter to you, including the dog’s size, color, breed, intelligence, playfulness, or any other trait.

Lower adoption fees

Many shelters offer discounted adoption fees for senior dogs. The savings may be minimal, but they still leave more money for high-quality dog food or a cozy dog bed for your new best friend.

Samantha Gehrmann / Stocksy

They may already be trained

Senior dogs usually have some training, so you don’t have to teach them everything. It’s a real pleasure to adopt a dog who already knows that the bathroom is outside rather than inside, is comfortable walking on a leash, knows how to sit, knows their name, and perhaps has many other skills. Of course, all dogs will likely need some training when they come into a new environment, and not all senior dogs have been previously trained, but it’s more common for senior dogs to already have some training than it is among younger dogs.

Challenges of adopting a senior dog

Dogs offer great joy at every age and stage but also present some trials. Puppies need constant supervision to keep them and your house safe, and adolescents are famous for their destructive chewing and tendency to ignore us. While senior dogs are well past these developmental issues, they, too, come with predictable challenges.

They may have some baggage or bad habits

It’s often said that senior dogs come with excess baggage or bad habits, and that may be true for some seniors, but age is not always a good predictor of behavioral challenges. Many senior dogs are available because their previous owners lost patience with them, worried about providing health care, found themselves homeless or under serious financial stress, or the previous pet parent has died.

Mobility might be an issue

Senior pets may have mobility issues due to stiffness in their joints, loss of muscle, or other natural aging processes. This lack of mobility can make it hard for senior dogs to navigate stairs or get in and out of the car.

They likely have some health problems

Health problems are more likely to occur in senior dogs than in any other age group. Medical problems may mean fewer options for activities, a significant time commitment to get the necessary care, and can be expensive. Because of their age, senior dogs are also more likely to have dental issues, which, in addition to being expensive to treat, can warrant pet parents being more cautious with their dog’s toys and chews so they don’t damage their teeth.

You won’t have as much time with them

The biggest challenge of adopting a senior dog is coping with the knowledge that we have less time to enjoy together. Of course, there are no guarantees about lifespan for any dog of any age, but with senior dogs, we can be more certain that our time with them is limited. The upside to this, though, is that it makes each moment together precious, and that’s a special and glorious way to live.

Bonnie Kittle / Unsplash

Preparing to adopt a senior dog

Preparation is wise before adopting any dog. Making arrangements before adopting a dog makes the transition more likely for everyone to go smoothly. When adopting a senior dog, there are a few particularly important items to add to your to-do list.

Contact your local veterinarian

Senior dogs may need more medical care than younger dogs, so scheduling a thorough exam soon is wise. Pro tip — unless the dog urgently needs care, schedule this for a couple of weeks after the adoption. The veterinary experience may be less stressful for your new friend once they are used to their new home and feel they can trust you.

Choose high-quality food

Good food is associated with enhanced health, and senior dogs can benefit from good nutrition in lots of ways, including better digestion, less stiffness, and perhaps more restorative sleep.

Purchase comfortable, supportive beds

Beds that offer support and have a soft, fuzzy surface can improve a senior dog’s quality of life. If you can purchase beds of different sizes or types, your new dog will let you know which one is most pleasing to them. If you plan to have them sleep in your bed (is there anything more delicious?), make sure they have one or more steps available to get in and out of bed so they don’t have to jump. Not all senior dogs can jump, and even those who can jump may cause themselves pain if they do try to leap up on the bed to be with you.

Have cleaning supplies available

Sometimes having a dog means having to clean up a mess, so it’s good to have towels and an enzymatic cleaner on hand.

Finding the right senior dog for you

No matter what age dog you are seeking, it’s best to choose a dog who fits your preferences and lifestyle and with whom you can connect. Finding the right senior dog for you is about finding that match in this particular age range.

One of the best pieces of advice about choosing the right dog for you — and this applies to senior dogs and those of other ages — is to base your choice on a dog’s behavior rather than their looks. This can be easy to say but hard to do — but it’s critically important. Your dog’s behavior is far more likely to affect your relationship than their looks. Choose a dog who is a good match for you, and you will fall in love with their appearance. However, loving a dog’s appearance does not make them the right dog for you. It’s especially important not to choose a dog just because they resemble the dog who was previously the love of your life. The black spot over their eye, the pink heart on their nose, or their comically oversized ears are not the key factors that made your relationship with that dog so incredible, so don’t assume another dog with similar traits will be as good for you as that dog was. There are other practical factors to consider, too. One is grooming. Some dogs must be brushed daily, which is difficult for those who don’t even regularly brush their hair to commit to.

If you relish silence, a dog who barks a lot because they are alarmed, enthusiastic, or simply loves to chime in no matter the occasion is not the best choice. The same applies if your partner is driven insane by barking or if you live in an apartment building.

If you want to pick up your dog or have them sit in your lap, a 15-pound dog has advantages over a 115-pound dog. If you want a dog to sleep in your bed with you, adopting one small enough to share the space makes sense. And yes, even the smallest dogs seem to take over the whole bed, but it’s still easier to claim a bit of space for yourself when the dog is not as big as you are.

Ultimately, you should consider an individual dog rather than a type of dog. Sure, retrievers are famous for loving the water and playing fetch, but some show disdain for both. Pay attention to who the dog in front of you actually is rather than who you expect them to be.

And notice if a dog is paying attention to you as well. Don’t be concerned if a dog is distracted when they first meet you (they’ll probably sniff around and explore the area), but it’s a great sign if they express an interest in you within a few minutes. A dog who brings you a toy, accepts your offer to play, wants to be near you, or happily welcomes petting or other physical contact is being sociable. Most of us want a sociable dog, but we don’t always consciously choose a dog based on them demonstrating sociability.

FAQ (People Also Ask):

You may have questions about what to expect when adopting a senior dog. Always consult your vet about any specific concerns about your dog, but here are some basic FAQs to get you started.

Is adopting a senior dog a good idea?

Adopting a senior dog is not a good idea; it’s a great idea! So many senior dogs need homes, and you can have your pick of them, potentially saving their life and making your own better.

What should I know before adopting a senior dog?

It’s important to know that every dog is an individual, so simply knowing they are a senior dog doesn’t tell you all you need to know about them. Get to know them for who they are and choose the next love of your life based on all they have to offer beyond just the number of years they have been alive.

When is a dog considered a senior?

A dog is considered a senior when they are in the last quarter of their expected lifespan, although that period can vary based on a dog’s size and breed. Many shelters and rescues consider any dog who’s at least seven years old to be a senior dog.

Can you train an older dog?

You can absolutely train a dog of any age! Anyone who suggests you can’t teach an old dog new tricks or any other skill, for that matter, is just plain wrong.

Final thoughts on adopting a senior dog

There is an unfounded but common concern that it will be hard to bond with a dog on the older side, but that’s simply not true. Biologically speaking, people and dogs are unusual because of our ability to establish deep relationships at any age. Senior dogs and their pet parents fall deeply in love, sometimes at first sight and sometimes over days, weeks, and months. We all deserve to welcome a dog into our homes and hearts who will make us happy and enhance our lives. Often, the right dog for that goal is a senior dog, and the joys of adopting a senior dog are many.

If you need to place a senior dog, post them on Adopt a Pet’s Rehoming site. If more people know about how wonderful it can be to adopt a senior dog, it will become more likely that each of them will find their way to a loving home.

References:

Find the perfect senior pet to adopt right here

6 Reasons Adopting a Senior Dog Might Be the Best Decision You Ever Make

Four Reasons to Open Your Mind to Older Pets

Adoption rates are significantly lower for senior pets in shelters

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Karen B. London, Ph.D., is a Certified Applied Animal Behaviorist and Certified Professional Dog Trainer who specializes in working with dogs with serious behavioral issues, including aggression, and has also trained other animals including cats, birds, snakes, and insects. She writes the animal column for the Arizona Daily Sun and is an Adjunct Professor in the Department of Biological Sciences at Northern Arizona University. She is the author of six books about training and behavior, including her most recent, Treat Everyone Like a Dog: How a Dog Trainer’s World View Can Improve Your Life.

You know how you’re always seeing pets posted as “free to good home” on community sites like Craigslist and Nextdoor and you find yourself thinking that these vulnerable pets could easily end up in the wrong hands? We think about this too and want to help struggling pet owners find new homes for their best friends in a way that is safe and reliable, by directing them to Rehome instead.

We know that you care about pets’ safety as much as we do, and we want you to join us for this Rehome challenge. Here’s how you can help:

1. Head over to Facebook groups, Craigslist, NextDoor, or any other site you’ve seen with “free to a good home” posts.

2. Reply to the posts with a link to Rehome

3. You can copy and paste the following text:

If you need to find a new home for your pet, try Rehome by Adopt-a-Pet.com and the Petco Foundation — the safe, reliable, and free way to rehome!

This peer-to-peer service allows pet owners to post their pets on Adopt-a-Pet.com for millions of potential adopters to see. The site also provides you with the tools you need to choose the right new family for your pet.

Check it out http://bit.ly/rehomesafely2

That’s it, you’re done. Give yourself a pat on the back for helping keep pets safe.

Adopting a shelter cat is a wonderful experience. But, bringing home a new feline friend requires a great deal of preparation. Most shelter cats need to adjust to a new home. The following tips will help your new kitty feel more comfortable as a house cat.

 

#1 Create a private area.

Animal shelters can be noisy and somewhat chaotic for a cat. Set up a private space in a bedroom to allow your cat to slowly get used to the space, odors and sounds of your home. Your bedroom should include:

• A litter box appropriate for the cat’s size
• A blanket or bed for the cat to cuddle and sleep on
• Food and water bowls (placed away from the litter box)
• Enough space for people to sit and spend time with the cat

 

A frightened cat may prefer to hide in a cardboard carrier. An inverted box with one side cut out will also work well.

 

#2 Protect furniture.

Cats can do serious damage to wood or upholstered furniture. Here are a few tips to keep your furniture safe:

• Install two-sided tape on the corners of furniture
• Place corrugated cardboard scratching surfaces in every room of your home
• Place a scratching tree near a large window

 

If for some reason the cat still gets to the furniture, you can always have them professionally upholstered and then put covers over them.

 

#3 Clear off shelving.

Cats like to climb. A shelter cat may choose a high vantage point when first exploring a new space. Clear off shelves and countertops before bringing your new kitty home. Make sure you adhere the bookshelves to the wall so it doesn’t fall over when the cat gets on it.

 

#4 Check small spaces.

Cats can fit into surprisingly small places, especially young kittens. Check your home for any cat- or kitten-sized holes. Cover holes with furniture or any other low-sitting items like shoeboxes or shopping bags.

 

#5 Prepare the family.

Educating every member of the household about how to treat and respect the space of a shelter cat will help everyone adjust (including your new kitty). Give your shelter cat adequate time to adjust before you introduce other pets or small children.

 

Conclusion.

Adopting a shelter cat is one of the most rewarding experiences a person can have. Following the tips above will ensure a smooth transition for your cat and your family.

 

Written contribution by Andrea Davis, Home Advisor.

Do you want to adopt a boy cat or a girl cat? Do gender it matter? You may be looking at adopting a new cat or kitten and wondering, what are the differences between boy and girl cats? Aside from the anatomical and chromosomal differences, or maybe partially because of them, we believe there are definitely behavioral differences between boy and girl cats! We’re drawing on our decades of experience sheltering, rescuing, fostering, and adopting out thousands of cats and kittens and sharing what we’ve learned with you, so you can benefit from our extensive experience to decide if adopting a boy or girl cat is best for you!

Neutered BOY CATS are usually more…

• Easy-going
• Adventurous
• Tolerant
• Goofy
• Dependent
• Sensitive
• Friendly with cats smaller than them

Spayed GIRL CATS are usually more…

• Nurturing
• Choosy
• Bossy
• Flirty
• Independent
• Possessive
• Tolerant of boy cats

Of course, every cat or kitten is a unique individual. However, just like certain personality traits connected to a cat’s coat color or length (such as tortie-tude, or longhair cats being very affectionate), we’ve found that gender does seem to play a role — especially once a kitten matures into an adult cat.

How humans socialize with kittens and cats has a huge impact on their behaviors.

We also want to mention that SPAYING and NEUTERING is so important! Yes, because there are already way too many unwanted homeless kittens and cats, but also because the girl vs boy behaviors can veer into unpleasant and even dangerous territory, such as unfixed males adventurous nature turn into a roaming one, and unfixed cats are much more likely to be aggressive towards each other and you too.

We’d love to hear if you agree or disagree! Click one of the social share buttons below and add a comment to share your opinion and experience.