Embracing the Happiness of Adopting an Older Dog 🐶🏘️
Let’s talk about a subject close to many of our hearts: pets and, more specifically, the overlooked gems of older dogs.
Have you ever considered adding a mature furry friend to your life? If you haven’t, you may be missing an incredible experience. According to a study in The Gerontologist, seniors who owned and walked dogs saw a lot of health benefits compared to seniors who did not own dogs or didn’t take them on frequent walks. These dog owning seniors saw a lower body mass index, had fewer doctor visits, and had increased social benefits.
This article explores some more reasons to seriously consider adopting an older dog:
1. Sharing the Golden Years Together
Like us, older dogs have lived a life and collected a few stories along the way. While we may not be as agile as in our 20s and 30s, we have wisdom and patience.
An older dog is the perfect companion for our stage in life. There’s nothing quite like sharing the tranquillity of a quiet afternoon or taking gentle strolls together.
2. What You See Is What You Get
Adopting an older dog can eliminate many of the surprises that come with a young pup. Your new companion’s size, personality, and health status are known, allowing you to find the perfect fit for your life.
The charm of older dogs is their authenticity; their quirks and personality traits are well-developed and fully displayed.
3. Bypass the Puppy Stage
Remember the constant attention our children and grandchildren required when they were young? Well, puppies are no different.
Pups need extensive training, socialisation, and attention. On the other hand, older dogs have usually mastered the basics and require less intense training. They’re often already house-trained and know how to behave indoors, leaving you with more time to enjoy each other’s company.
4. A Calmer Companionship
Older dogs typically have a more relaxed temperament than their younger counterparts. They’re less likely to be bouncy or get into mischief when you’re not looking.
They’re content with a slower pace of life, which can be a perfect match for those of us who are considering or are retired and enjoying a more peaceful stage of life.
5. Give a Dog a Second Chance
Adopting an older dog is good for you and is an incredible act of kindness. Senior dogs are often overlooked in shelters and can wait a long time for their forever home.
Adopting an older dog gives them the love, security, and comfort they deserve in their twilight years.
6. It’s Good For Your Health!
Numerous studies have shown that owning a pet can help:
- Lower blood pressure
- Reduce stress
- Increase physical activity
- Help combat feelings of loneliness and depression
7. It keeps you active (even when you don’t feel like it)
Owning a dog is a great way to exercise and meet other people while out and about. An older dog doesn’t need to sprint when you take him for a walk, it’s a leisurely walk – and is just what you need to stretch the legs and get a bit of exercise.
Whether it’s walking around the block, or going to the beach or park for a walk, your new (older) best mate will proactively get you out and moving – which is not only great for your physical health but will do wonders for your mental health by being outside and getting fresh air.
8. It will allow you to be more social
Whilst the walks won’t need to be as long or fast-paced, all dogs still need to be walked and love to be walked. And this is a great excuse to not only keep you active but to socialise with neighbours and fellow dog walkers that are out with their pooch. Better yet, it’s the perfect excuse to join a dog club or frequent a dog park and get to know the other regulars.
Even a simple wave and greeting across the road is could be just the acknowledgment, encouragement or positivity you need – or perhaps they need to which helps kick start both of your days.
9. Love Knows No Age
Age doesn’t determine the love of a pet. Older dogs can form strong bonds and provide just as much affection, if not more, than puppies. They have a lifetime of love to give and will quickly become a cherished member of your family.
Adopting an older dog presents an opportunity to enrich your life in unexpected and beautiful ways. It might seem daunting, but we assure you that welcoming a four-legged companion to your home is a worthwhile cause for you both.
