Sweet senior Beagle/Labrador Retriever mix Shea is looking for her home for the holidays.
Photo by Siobhan Healy
Make a Smart New Year's Resolution: Adopt a Senior Pet
Should old acquaintance be forgot? Absolutely not! Instead, if you're thinking about adopting a new companion now or in the new year, consider adopting an older dog or cat. They'll bring you all the comforts of an old acquaintance, and save you many of the challenges of a puppy or kitten — like house training, chewing, or midnight romps through your home.
Also, bear in mind that older animals typically spend a longer time in a shelter or foster home than their younger buddies because so many adopters favor puppies or kittens. But you can do yourself and a senior pet a favor by taking on an older, more settled-down companion.
Nearly every shelter and rescue group has seniors patiently awaiting permanent homes. (Patience, yet another virtue of a senior pet!) Ask about them when you visit or contact a rescue organization. And check out some of the wonderful senior cats and dogs featured in Senior Pets: All They Need is Love.
