If you ’ve been scroll through doggy adoption Page , you ’ve likely find a sad realness : A large portion of dogs in pauperism of a forever family are senior aged 7 and up .
“ There are many awe-inspiring old wiener waiting in shelters right now for someone to bring them home , and nobody is more grateful or loving than an old dog who know he ’s gotten a 2nd chance , ” says Lisa Lunghofer , executive director of theGrey Muzzle Organization , a nonprofit organization that allow for funds and resources to support the welfare of older dogs in senior domestic dog rescue , sanctuaries , and shelters .
Want to add an honest-to-goodness son or girl to your family ? Learn everything you need to know about senior dog adoption , plus how to prep your home for an previous heel .
Reasons to Adopt a Senior Dog
Sure , puppy are fun - loving and playful . But senior Canis familiaris are often housetrained , well past the masticate - everything stage , more laid - back , and easier to live with , says Lunghofer . If you ’re an old soul , enjoy attend out at dwelling , or prefer at leisure walks over runs , a aged hound could make a outstanding match for your modus vivendi .
Another professional you might have yet to consider ? Many tax shelter offer reduced adoption fees for senior citizens or anyone up for taking home an sometime dog .
Finally , there ’s the undeniable feel - good factor of deliver a elderly dog and help oneself them to make the most of their favorable years .
Adopting a Senior Dog: Things to Consider
No matter how much you need to take an old son home with you , it ’s important not to take senior dog adoption lightly . Older dogs often need extra TLC , and they ’re best off with well - prepared pet parents .
Here are some helpful questions to enquire yourself before you send in an app for an older andiron :
Am I prepared for twice - yearly veterinary fitting and potential wellness issues?On top of even examination and vaccination , some senior dogs may have medical issue like dental disease ortrouble controlling their bladder . Make certain to involve for information on blood test results , previous treatment , and wellness needs before espouse , suggests Lunghofer .
Could I provide all of the necessary accommodation for a senior dog?Older pawl may need special food , medication , supplements to alleviate joint pain , and senior - favorable adjustments to your household , saysDr . Judy Morgan , a holistic veterinarian .
Can I care a potential malignant neoplastic disease diagnosis?Sadly , nearly half of all dogs over the age of 10 will originate cancer [ 1 ] . While this is no fun to cerebrate about , it ’s important to be up for handling this possibility emotionally and financially .
Preparing Your Home for a Senior Dog
Before you wreak an older dog home , you ’ll want to make your outer space as good ( read : accident - proof ) as possible .
Here ’s what to do :
Senior Dog Adoption Checklist
Finally , ensure you have all of the veterinary surgeon - approved supply , tools , and treats you ’ll need to make your senior blackguard sense love . These tools may not all be needed immediately upon acceptation but are proficient preparation for any house with maturate dogs or those with limited mobility .
Dr. Morgan recommend all of the below :
A Comfortable Dog Bed
An orthopedic click layer ( or a few ! ) with memory foam to buffer tender joints and boil down pain and irritation from arthritis or other wellness conditions . Pro tip : Look for frankfurter beds with a nothing - off cover for gentle cleanup .
No-Slip Socks or Booties
Slip - resistant Canis familiaris socks or bootieshelp prevent pin on slippery floors .
Ramps or Dog Stairs
Sturdy , no - shake wild leek or step for couches and bedscan prevent wipeouts and injuries when go for and jump from furniture .
A Lifting Harness
Especially if you have a large dog , regard purchasing a lifting aidlike a harness to assist your dog in and out of the car or up and down stairs .
Joint Supplements
Since arthritis is a common precondition in older dogs , joint supplementsthat take omega-3 fatty acids or glucosamine and chondroitin can assist ease inflammation and cut down on joint pain in the neck .
The Right Dog Food
verbalize to your veterinary about senior lifestage hot dog foodfor your click ’s old age and health status ( consider soft nutrient over kibble for wiener who have lose tooth or have raw gum ) .
Adopting a elderly dog can take some supernumerary planning but the flat love you will receive in return is more than worth it .
