Are you going to be welcoming a new pet into your home soon? Many people go for young pets when looking for a new furry companion. It’s not hard to understand why: puppies and kittens are adorable and amusing. There’s also just something to be said for raising your pet yourself. However, senior pets still have lots to offer! Continue reading as a local Hiawassee, GA veterinarian explores the advantages of adopting an older pet.
They Aren’t Destructive
By the time Fluffy and Fido reach their senior years, they will be slowly but surely running out of gas. Fluffy will be more interested in catching Z’s than in catching mice, and Fido will probably chase squirrels in his dreams rather than in the yard. Dogs will have outgrown many undesirable behaviors, such as digging and gnawing. You won’t have as many destructive habits to worry about.
Less Prone To Zoomies
Puppies and kittens are usually very active, while older pets tend to be calmer. This is clearly adorable to watch. However, there is a downside. During this adorable span, pets get into everything. They also require lots of toys and attention. A young pet will take a large amount of pet parenting to keep them entertained and out of trouble.
Older animals are usually done with their zoomies and past any disruptive activities, such as digging and biting. They just want to sleep, eat, and cuddle. This makes them easier to care for.
They Give Unconditional Love
Pets are very intelligent and intuitive. They know when someone has helped them and are genuinely grateful. There is nothing quite like that unconditional love. In fact, you may very well melt when your new friend looks up at you with those big, soulful eyes!
Shorter Commitment Time
Adopting a puppy or kitten usually involves committing to at least ten years of pet ownership. Senior animals simply have less time. This can actually be useful for some. If you don’t know where you’ll be in ten years, or if, for instance, you plan to attend college for eight years before relocating cross-country, an older animal may be the best fit for your timeline.
You’d Be Saving A Life
It can be difficult to locate a new home for an elderly animal. Many people overlook them in favor of younger animals. While some shelters have adopted a no-kill policy, this is not a standard practice. Saving a pet’s life is a truly amazing experience!
No Surprises
It’s hard to say what a kitten or puppy will look like when it gets older. You will also be unable to foresee Fido’s size, particularly if you get a mutt. This can be a huge concern, especially for renters, because many landlords have size restrictions. With an older animal, there is no need for speculation.
Prior Experience
Another perk to adopting older animals? In many cases, they already have undergone training. There are definitely perks to adopting an animal that is already ‘petucated.’
You May Save Money
Shelters frequently give senior animals at a discount in order to increase their chances of adoption. You may also save money on veterinarian visits, because Fido and Fluffy have most likely already been fixed. Of course, as they become older, they may require more veterinary care. Contact your Hiawassee, GA veterinarian for further information.
Older Pets Are Adorable
While kittens and puppies are adorable, adult pets can also be really cute. There’s something super endearing about seeing a lovable dog calmly requesting pets or biscuits, or Fluffy peacefully resting in her favorite sunbeam.
Senior Pets Have Sweet Demeanors
It can be hard not to smile around older animals, just because of their peaceful, amiable, and loving nature. Many of them really enjoy attention and may just close their eyes if you scratch an itch or stroke their foreheads.
You’ll Be Helping To Promote Good Animal Welfare
When you adopt an aging animal, you will also indirectly help other homeless pets. For starters, you’ll free up room at the shelter, allowing another dog or cat to find a new home. Fluffy and Fido’s adoption fees will also help the shelter provide food, shelter, and care to its other residents.
Make An Appointment At Our Hiawassee, GA Animal Clinic
Have you recently adopted an aging pet? Please contact us for all your pet’s veterinary needs. As your Hiawassee, GA pet clinic, we are here to assist!
