When it comes to adopting a pet, people often envision a bouncy puppy or playful kitten, but senior pets have an incredible amount to offer. Adopting an older dog or cat can be an incredibly rewarding choice for both the animal and the adopter. With more than 250 adoptable animals on our campus at any time, the perfect senior pet is here waiting to take that long-awaited car ride to their new home.
Here are a few reasons why a senior pet could be your ideal companion, along with some seniors ready to meet you at our Port Washington, NY Adoption Center.
Calm Temperament and Lower Energy Needs
Senior pets are typically much calmer than their younger counterparts. They’ve left behind the high-energy phases of puppy or kittenhood and settled into a steady, manageable rhythm. For adopters seeking a companion who’s more inclined to relax by their side than to race around the house, seniors are an ideal fit. These older pets generally require less exercise and intensive play, making them especially well-suited to quieter households or adopters with busy schedules.
Established Personalities and Predictability
One of the main challenges of adopting a young pet is that their personalities are still developing, which can sometimes lead to surprises. Senior pets, on the other hand, often have well-defined personalities, so adopters know what they’re getting in terms of behavior, temperament, and habits. In addition, since older pets have already reached full size and weight, it takes a lot of guesswork out of choosing the right pet for your lifestyle and home. This predictability makes it easier to find the right match and ensures a smoother transition into a new home, with fewer surprises.
Built-In Basic Training
Many older pets come with years of experience, either from living in a home or from professional training provided in their shelter environment. This means they’re already familiar with basic rules and routines. Older pets are less destructive, and more disciplined and focused. Senior dogs, in particular, are often housetrained and may know basic commands, while senior cats are likely to be experienced with litter boxes. This built-in training can ease the adjustment period and reduce the time needed for correction or reinforcement.
Effortless Relaxation
It is well-proven that owning a pet is relaxing and calming. It even lowers blood pressure! Senior pets tend to have a calm, mellow attitude. Meaning your time with your senior pet is a relaxing session from the beginning, with no need to expend a puppy’s energy to get them to settle down.
Companions for Anyone AND Everyone
Senior pets make great companions for young and older adopters alike. Because their size, temperament, and energy level is well established, an owner of any age will find the right companion for them. Our Seniors For Seniors® Program can help bring a wonderful pet into the the home of adults 60 and over. Our Adoption Counselors help each adopter find the perfect match. Our team has specially selected wonderful animals exclusively for this program, and it offers qualifying seniors tremendous benefits to help care for their new best friend.
A True Act of Compassion
Senior pets are often overlooked in shelters, as many people gravitate toward younger animals. Yet, by adopting a senior, you’re making a life-changing difference for an animal who might otherwise be left behind. This compassionate choice not only gives an older pet a safe, happy home in their golden years, but it also frees up shelter resources to help other animals in need.
Can’t make it to our Port Washington, NY Adoption Center?
Find adoptable senior pets near you by searching your local zip code in our directory of over 2,000 partner shelter and rescue groups.