November is National Adopt a Senior Pet month, so we want to share with you ten of the millions of reasons to adopt a senior pet. In no particular order, here’s our team’s favorite reasons to #AdoptASeniorPet!
10.They’re grown-ass adults
Our friends at the Animal Protection Association of Missouri said it best when they shared their Adopt Adult campaign.
9. Senior Pets are Less Destructive
When you bring a kitten or puppy home, just know it’s going to be chaotic as they learn and grow. Senior pets have passed this phase and are more likely to be well behaved. At this point, they’ve learned many life lessons too.
8. Senior Pets Are Chill AF
As pets get older, their need for stimulation lessens as does their energy levels. As mellow creatures, seniors are happiest sitting in your lap, by the heater or fireplace, or curled up in bed next to you. No matter what age they are, pets come with a lifetime supply of unconditional love. That should be the top reason for anyone to adopt or foster a pet!
Jack, 13 years old
- Their Needs Are Easier to Meet
As senior pets are fully grown, you’re already aware of their size and grooming needs. So, no surprises there!
Roy Rodgers, 12 years old
- No training required:
With puppies and kittens, every other word out of their owner’s mouth is “no!” There’s a lot of training that goes into a young pet that seniors already have!
- You Save a Life
Senior pets are often overlooked for younger animals and tend to stay at shelters longer. That’s why they need your help more than ever.
Squish, 10 years old
- They’re practically BFFs with younger animals
Older pets are more likely to see a puppy or kitten and think “ugh, kids these days…” while continuing to mind their own business.
- Potential therapy and comfort pets
Because of the more mellow and relaxed disposition of many senior pets, they often can bring comfort to those who may need it. Cuddling with animals for pet therapy is known to produce feel good chemicals like dopamine and serotonin while eliminating stress levels.
Hermi, 15 years old
- You support a shelter with a lifesaving mission
The Nevada Humane Society is a no-kill shelter and has been since 2007. We have been operating in Washoe County for over 90 years, providing services for over 18,000 pets every year.
- It’s a good feeling to help older animals (and get a discount!)
These senior pets are aware of how fortunate they are to get another chance at happiness, more attention, and treats. Shelters across the country are often offering seniors for free to interested families, or even programs where senior citizens can find older pets to keep them company as well.
Both of our Shelter locations in Reno and Carson are waiving all adoption fees for any senior pets in our facilities to help these sweet animals go to loving homes. Visit us today and bring a four-legged old guy or gal into your family today!
Logdog, 11 years old
If you’ve adopted a senior pet from us, we’d love to hear more about the #HappyTail! Email your story and any photos you would like to happytails@nevadahumanesociety.org.