Recently adopted, Tess is an 11 year old "Golden Oldie" from the
Golden Retriever Rescue of North Texas.
Petfinder has named August 12th as “Adopt-a-Less-Adoptable-Pet” Day. At shelters, there is an abundance of animals that have a harder time being placed in homes over others. It seems most families flock toward the younger animals while hundreds of others are left behind.
In a recent poll conducted by Petfinder, shelters were asked what animals have the hardest time finding homes. Among the top were: senior pets, pets with medical problems, and victims of breed prejudice.
Locally, shelters are doing their part in promoting the adoption of these “less adoptable” pets.
The Golden Retriever Rescue of North Texas has an “Adopt a Golden Oldie” program where they raise awareness about their available pets that are eight years or older. Golden Retriever Rescue of North Texas President, Kelley Blaylock, says, “Some potential adopters first consider a younger dog, then…realize that a senior dog fits better than a younger one with their lifestyle."
The GRRNT website goes into further detail as to why Golden Oldies are better fits for some, especially those with a busy schedule.
A Golden Oldie can offer easy adaptability to the ebb and flow of your household, tolerance of changes in your schedule, and a long attention span with a tight focus on your instructions and behavior preferences. Most senior animals are beautifully housebroken and are well past the slipper-chewing and rummaging-in-the-trash stage of life!
Other shelters like the SPCA of Texas offer a discounted rate for senior cats and dogs and VIP pets. The SPCA VIP Club seeks to raise awareness and funds for those animals that have been in the shelter for 30 days or longer.
Another resource, The Senior Dog Project, provides in-depth information on senior pets. Testimonials, informational articles, available pets, and health care tips are all available on the website.
All things considered, if you are thinking about expanding your family, take the time to look at those pets that are less adoptable, because they, too, need forever homes. From potty trained to eternally grateful, these animals make excellent companions, as well.
Don't shop, adopt (a less adoptable pet)!
For more information:
Senior Dog Project
Petfinder's Adopt-a-Less-Adoptable-Pet Page
SPCA VIP Club
Golden Retriever Rescue of North Texas Golden Oldies
Comments
I really like older dogs and currently have a 12 year old cocker spaniel I adopted a couple of months ago and a 15 year old sheltie. I have adopted dogs as old as 15. She lived with me for 3 years and I still miss her. Older dogs are great and when I do look I always look first at the older ones. They have a lot of love to give and just like the younger ones all they are looking for is a good home and love in return.
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