Far too often, an older dog will be handed over to a shelter. Sometimes it’s because the human can no longer care for their canine friend & must give them up. But what’s even more sad is when a senior dog is surrendered for the wrong reasons. There are many excuses, they smell, they’ve become too much work…all very selfish reasons to give up on a  friend. But it happens.

Most people when they come to a shelter are looking for a puppy or at least a young dog. The senior dogs are often past over. But this shouldn’t be the case. A senior dog can be a wonderful companion.

Let me share a few good reasons you should consider an older dog if you are adopting or thinking of fostering.

• Already house trained
• no teething like a puppy
• Generally calmer

But also

• you’re adopting a dog who’s chances are slim. As I said above, most people want a youngster.
• you’re freeing up space for another dog, possibly another senior
• your enriching a life that may have been cut short simply because they’re no longer youthful, too much work or perhaps their human has fallen on hard times or has died.
• You’ll be getting a devoted, grateful & simply pawsome furiend.

There are many rescues & shelters that work with senior dogs. Here is just a small sample…

The Senior Dog Project offers a lot of information including an extensive list of shelters & rescues where you can adopt a senior.

The Sanctuary for Senior Dogs is a well established non-profit that fosters & facilitates adoptions.

ARTS Senior Animal Rescue is a rescue dedicated to helping senior animals in need – 8 years old plus for dogs & 10 years old plus for cats.

If your thinking of adopting or fostering, consider a senior dog. I’m sure a quick Google search will find a shelter or rescue with senior dogs near you.

CEO Olivia ❤