Adopting a Senior Dog

November is Adopt A Senior Dog Month! If you’re ready to bring a new furry buddy into your life, please consider choosing an older one. Pups in their golden years make absolutely wonderful pets! A Dutchess County, NY vet offers some tips on this below. 

Benefits

Pups in their senior years have some very special characteristics that make them delightful pets. For one thing, Fido will have outgrown his ‘zoomies’ and tendencies to get into mischief. Instead of lunging after squirrels, he’ll probably be quite content just snoozing in his bed. Older dogs are also usually already trained. Plus, they tend to be very loving and affectionate. Last but not least, they just don’t have as much time left as a younger pooch would. That means a shorter commitment, which may be beneficial for some.

Checklist

When you go shopping for Fido, you’ll need to keep his age in mind. The focus should be more on keeping your canine pal comfortable than entertaining him. Soft toys, thick beds, raised dishes, and pet ramps and stairs are a few examples of things that will help keep your furry pal’s tail wagging. You’ll also want to choose senior-formula treats and food. Ask your vet for specific advice.

Getting Ready

Before you bring Fido home, you’ll want to make sure that your place is safe and comfortable for him. You’ll need to do some petproofing, again with the focus on comfort and safety. You may want to put your furry friend’s belongings in a quiet back room at first, so he has a safe spot to just relax and settle into his new retirement home. 

Tail Wags

Older dogs often get very scared and confused when they find themselves in shelters. Fido also gets very attached to his humans, and may not understand why his owner has left him. Your pup may sleep a lot at first, and may need time to settle in. However, you may very well find that your new canine companion quickly decides that you’re the best thing under the sun. Tail wags from a senior dog are truly precious! You may also find that you really love having such a calm, sweet pet.

As your Dutchess County, NY vet clinic, we are dedicated to offering great care. Please feel free to contact us with any questions or concerns about caring for your new pet.