Adopt An Older Dog Instead of a Puppy

By Judy H. Wright--Author/PetParent/IntuitiveWiseWoman

Until one has loved an animal, a part of one's soul remains unawakened. Anatole France

How is it pets can have a positive effect on our health and happiness? For one thing, and this is vitally important right now in the middle of COVID, animal companionship helps us reduce stress and anxiety. Pets, and especially dogs, allow us to be genuinely ourselves.

They don't care about human distinctions of gender, creed, color, politics, or financial situations. An older dog that is already house trained and ready to be loved will offer you the opportunity to be with a being who doesn't judge, doesn't argue back, doesn't have prejudices, biases, preconceptions, and opinions that don't agree with yours.

Pets and humans are living longer now days. In the past fifty years the life span of a dog has nearly doubled. By the time a dog and his family celebrate his first birthday, life expectancy will reach about 14 years, depending on the breed.

By adopting an older dog you will still have many years of life to offer unconditional love and acceptance. This older dog will provide loyal affection to you and your whole family.

Why Choose An Older Dog?

Dogs that are no longer puppies are the perfect choice for someone who never had a dog in the past and also a perfect source of love, attention, and distraction for family who have lost a pet. Mature, healthy dogs are extremely tolerant with the young, whether they are human or canine.

One of the benefits of adopting an older dog is there are few surprises. They are fully grown, their colors and coat are not going to change. They are not likely but still can be chasers, chewers, foragers, or howlers. You can acquire this information from the person they came from and prepare accordingly.

Older dogs can adapt faster to a new home, and as a matter of fact, people who adopt a dog coming from a rescue organization are very grateful for the peaceful transition and adapt very easily. They will be forever grateful and loyal to you for choosing them to be part of your family.

Family Friendly Fur Family? You Bet

Adopting an older dog can be a wise move for a family- friendly pet. A fact I found interesting is that ninety-seven percent of teenagers who owned pets reported that they loved them very much and counted on them as close friends.

Unlike friends, whom they may not be able to visit right now, and parents who may not have the best relationship in tight quarters of quarantine, teenagers found a reliable source of joy in their dogs and cats.

This is also a great way to teach personal responsibility. Allow the teen and dog to bond and you will be surprised at how much care the teen shows to his/her new best friend.

Old Dogs Can Learn New Tricks

Depending on the breed, dogs are considered old after a few years. But this does not mean that they are not vital able-bodied companions. They are smart, friendly, and want very much to please you.

An old dog can learn new tricks. If you have a plan on adopting an older dog consider attending dog obedience classes or ask a trainer. You will find out that classes are full of pets that are older and more willing to learn. Adult dogs are often the most wanting, the most attentive because they always want to please their new owners.

Better Care, Longer and Healthier Life

Pet parents and animal lovers take better care of their pets from the moment they are born or are adopted. Through increased knowledge, improved pet care products and advanced medical technology, we are able to enjoy our pets even longer than ever before.

Do not be afraid of the challenges attached to bonding with a new pet, no matter how old or young they may be.

Just like humans, the majority of colds, viruses, and illnesses happen in early life. But it doesn't mean that older dogs have no health-related expenses. But if you are a good pet parent, you will find that your dog will provide a capable and loving companion for many, many years.

Why Not Choose An Older Dog?

The reason for not choosing to adopt an older dog may be the expensive medical expenses. The sad truth is, age is not a safe predictor to determine medical costs regarding dog ownership. Dog expenses often come because of accidents, ingesting toxins or poisons, or random incidents that sometimes associate to the age of the dog.

They need less patience, they are loyal, faithful, and can easily adapt to their forever homes. They have love built-in just waiting for your warm embrace and friendship. They will offer you unconditional love for many years to come.

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The intuitive wise woman, Judy Helm Wright is an accomplished author, speaker and "Pet Grief Coach."

Judy provides personal coaching, therapeutic sharing and supportive community as well as pet tributes and memorial keepsakes.