Are you thinking of welcoming a new furry friend into your home? Many people go for young animals when searching for a new pet. It’s understandable—puppies and kittens are undeniably adorable and a whole lot of fun. And raising a pet from an early age does have its advantages. But let’s not forget, older pets bring plenty to the table too! Join us as a local Southern Utah vet shares some compelling reasons to consider welcoming a senior pet into your home and heart.
We all know puppies and kittens are the epitome of playfulness! But there’s a catch. At that stage, pets can be a real bundle of energy, and they have a knack for getting into all sorts of trouble. As a result, they need plenty of toys and a good amount of attention. With an older animal, you won’t have to worry so much about keeping them entertained or steering them away from mischief.
People tend to overlook older pets in favor of their younger counterparts. Although some shelters have embraced a no-kill policy, it’s a practice that hasn’t caught on everywhere. Since many shelters provide pets with a limited time to find their forever homes, older animals often find themselves with rather bleak chances of being adopted. Rescuing a senior pet is an amazing experience, one that can truly change your life in remarkable ways.
When you bring home a puppy or kitten, it’s like playing a guessing game about what they’ll end up like when they grow up. It can be quite the mystery to figure out just how big Fido will grow, particularly if you decide to adopt a mutt. That can really matter, particularly for renters, since many places impose size restrictions. You might find yourself in the dark about their personality as well. When it comes to an older animal, things are more clear-cut. What you see is what you get!
Another perk of bringing home senior animals is that they usually come with prior training. Avoiding the housebreaking phase definitely has its perks! Cats, naturally, don’t require formal training, though they often end up training us instead. However, they still need to grasp the do’s and don’ts of being a well-mannered kitty. Of course, should your older animal companion still have a few unpleasant habits, your Southern Utah vet can help you get them back on track.
Puppies and kittens are irresistibly playful, but they can also be quite the handful. You’ll likely be pulling little Fluffy off the curtains or preventing little Fido from munching on your shoes. Having a baby animal is similar to having a furry toddler. When it comes to this, older animals definitely have the upper hand. They’ve mostly moved beyond their zoomies and are usually past any destructive antics like digging and chewing. All they truly desire is to snooze, munch, and cuddle up. That makes them a breeze to care for.
Pets possess a remarkable level of intelligence and intuition. They frequently serve as mirrors, reflecting how they are treated. They have the ability to recognize when someone has been kind to them and often express immense gratitude. You’ll probably find yourself melting the very first time your new friend gazes up at you with those big, soulful eyes.
This one is bittersweet. Bringing a puppy or kitten into your home means you’re committing to a journey of pet ownership that could last a decade or even longer. Older animals don’t have as much time left. That could be a plus for certain folks. If you’re unsure about your future in ten years, for example, or you’re thinking of spending eight years in college before making a big move across the country, you might discover that adopting an older pet aligns better with your plans.
As Fluffy and Fido reach their golden years, they’ll likely find themselves running low on energy. Fluffy will probably be more focused on napping than on hunting mice, while Fido might find himself chasing squirrels in his dreams instead of in the backyard. Dogs will have outgrown a variety of pesky habits, like digging and chewing. Fluffy will still need to keep her nails sharp, and will probably still enjoy batting small objects off your desk, but she won’t have the drive to scale the bookcase and send all your dresser items tumbling down.
Shelters frequently offer older animals at a reduced price in the hopes of boosting their chances of finding a loving home. You’ll probably save a bit on veterinary bills since Fido and Fluffy are probably already spayed or neutered. Just remember that they might require extra veterinary attention as they navigate their golden years. Check in with your Southern Utah vet for additional details!
Kittens and puppies are undeniably cute, but don’t overlook the charm of our aging pets. They certainly have their own special appeal! It’s delightful to witness a charming dog humbly requesting some affection or a tasty treat, or to catch a glimpse of Fluffy blissfully napping in the warmth of an incoming sunbeam.
Older animals often possess a friendly, and affectionate personality that makes them a delight to be around. Many of these sweet souls absolutely adore the spotlight, and they’ll drift off into a state of pure happiness when you scratch that itch or give their foreheads a gentle rub.
Bringing an older animal into your home is a heartwarming gesture of compassion. If you have kids, this can be a fantastic way to show them just how important empathy really is. Even if you don’t have kids, it’s a fantastic opportunity to set a great example for others you know and maybe even inspire someone else to adopt a senior pet.
By adopting an older animal, you’re not just gaining a furry friend; you’re also lending a paw to other homeless pets in need! By doing this, you’ll be opening up space at the shelter, giving another adorable dog or cat the opportunity to find a loving home. The adoption fees for Fluffy and Fido will also assist the shelter in providing food, housing, and care for their other furry residents.
Do you prefer the cozy comforts of staying indoors and enjoying some peace and quiet? If that’s the case, a gentle, loving older pet could be just the ideal companion for you!
For the most part, senior pets share the same care needs as their younger counterparts, but there are a few things you’ll want to approach a little differently. Consider picking up some pet ramps or stairs for your new furry friend. If you’re a cat owner, you’ll want to choose some kitty furniture that’s low to the ground, making it easier for your furry friend to hop on and off with ease
Of course, each pet has its own unique personality. Be sure to swing by your Southern Utah animal clinic for tailored care tips. We love seeing older animals finding their forever homes!
Did you just bring home a senior pet? Don’t hesitate to reach out to us – your trusted Southern Utah veterinarian – for all of your pet’s health and wellness needs! We’re honored to assist you!
