Choosing An Elderly Dog For Your Home

Do you question why animals of a certain age are in a rescue shelter

? Do you think that they may have behavioural issues and you aren't prepared to take on that responsibility? Of course every animal has their own history as do we, but that's not to say an older pet shouldn't be given the chance of a retirement life with you. There are so many cases of older dogs ending up in rescue centres because their former owner has passed away or have had to move abroad. There is also the sad fact that humans can be disturbingly cruel and a rescue animal may very well have finally been saved after years with an abusive owner. It is not always the case that an old dog has bad habits or an aggressive temperament, however their character will be fully developed and probably like you and me they're a bit set in their ways.

So what are the pros and cons of rehoming an elderly dog?

Pros

They will already be house trained. You won't have to deal with leash training, toilet training, socializing them or choosing the right diet. All of that will be established. They should already know the basics like sit, stay etc.

They're most likely to have already been neutered. Even if their former owner didn't do it the rescue shelter certainly will as it's usually standard protocol.

No puppy bills. This is always a big cost when you take home a puppy. The vaccinations, worming treatments, annual boosters and neutering all adds up.

Of course being older they're unlikely to destroy your home by chewing everything it can. They'll be happy with their favourite dog toy or bone and won't be interested in such naughty puppy behaviour.

Their adult size will already be established so there'll be no worry of how big will they become.

A puppy usually needs a lot of attention and will be very energetic. Your older dog will still enjoy love and affection but will be used to having their own space and won't need to be fussed as much.

Their character will already be established so if you want a calm dog or a more energetic type then you'll be getting exactly what you see.

Cons

How are they with children? Older dogs can be extremely patient or a bit snappy. Find out the history as a lot of dogs won't put up with screaming kids pulling and poking at them and may get a bit nippy. It's your responsibility to do the research, you never know if a particular dog has had a bad experience with children.

Medication costs. The older dog may have age related illnesses that will be an expense. However any pet will cost you a trip or two to the vets at some point.

Obviously the older years mean you will have to deal with losing them at some point. Even though sad things can happen to a puppy, your elderly dog is naturally going to pass on sooner rather than later.

Obesity can be a real problem for the older dog, so diet and exercise is vital. Incontinence can also be an issue too, so be prepared for that.

Any animal will be so happy to have a second chance at a second home. You're saving their life it doesn't get better than that.

by: Alex Kelly

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