November is Adopt A Senior Pet Month! While we always love to see older pets getting second chances, this is a great time to sing their praises. Read on as a London, ON vet lists some great reasons to adopt a senior dog.

No Surprises

When you adopt a puppy, you’ll be more or less estimating what your canine pal will look like as an adult, and how his personality will develop. It may also be difficult to tell how big your furry friend will get. With dogs in their golden years, what you see is very much what you get. If Fido is lovable and affectionate in the shelter, that’s how he will be at home.

Prior Training

Generally, senior dogs have been pets before. Most of them already know simple commands like Sit, Stay, and Come. As an added bonus, you’ll be able to skip the housetraining and chewing-everything-in-sight stages. That’s definitely a big plus!

Sweet Demeanor

As dogs age, they tend to get calmer and more affectionate. Many senior dogs really just want someone to pet them and give them snacks and belly rubs. It’s very easy to fall for these sweet, friendly pups!

Less Behavioral Issues

Just like people, dogs slow down with age. A senior dog won’t be as frisky or energetic as a puppy. And, since Fido won’t have a lot of pent-up energy, he’ll be less likely to engage in mischievous doggy behaviors, like chewing and digging.

Lower Activity Needs

Another good benefit of having older dogs is that they don’t need as much activity or entertainment as young ones. Where a puppy may need several hours of exercise and playtime a day, a pooch in his golden years may only require a walk around the block.

Promote Good Animal Welfare

Adopting a senior pet is definitely something you can feel great about. Many of these lovable pooches are passed over in favor of puppies. This is very sad, because they can make great pets! By giving Fido a new lease on life, you’re helping make a positive difference in the world, and setting a great example for others. Plus, if you adopt from a shelter, you’ll be freeing up space for another homeless pup.

Is your senior dog due for an appointment? Contact us, your London, ON vet clinic, today! We’re here to help!