Senior pets are often left behind in shelters. But there are advantages of adopting a senior cat or dog: they've been potty trained and otherwise; their personality has had a chance to mature; you will miss the joys of their youthful destruction stage; you will be saving a life and providing a much deserved forever home. Some seniors have special needs which you will need to consider. Other senior animals are ready for love and a forever home as well. Studies show that one of the many health benefits of having a pet is that they help lower your blood pressure and anxiety, so let an old dog, cat or small animal rescue you and bring new life to your home.
Caring for a Senior Pet
My Old Dog: Rescued Pets with Remarkable Second Acts: Laura Coffey and photographer Lori Fusaro traveled the country collecting amazing stories and amazing photos of owners and the elder dogs they adopted.
Amy Shojai's Complete Care for Your Aging Cat provides information to help keep your aging cat active and healthy.
Good Old Dog: Expert Advice for Keeping your Aging Dog Happy, Healthy, and Comfortable: Find expert advice from Cummings Veterinary School at Tufts University keeps your Golden’s years golden.
American Veterinary Medical Association: Senior Pet Care FAQ: This FAQ covers the basics with links to podcasts on a variety of topics: The Perils of Pudgy Pets; Weight Loss Tips for Cats; exercise; stress and general geriatric care.
What Are They Thinking?
Wondering about your pet's behavior? Scientist John Bradshaw compiles his research on pet behavior in Cat Sense: How the New Feline Science Can Make You a Better Friend to Your Pet and Dog Sense: How the New Science of Dog Behavior Can Make You A Better Friend to Your Pet. Learn more in his NPR interview, "What’s Mittens Thinking? Make Sense of Your Cat's Behavior."
So many pet owners, humans owned by pets and receivers of therapy animal services say that they get so much more than they give. Find more recommendations in my What Animals Teach Us booklist.
“Some people talk to animals. Not many listen though. That's the problem.” ― A.A. Milne, Winnie-the-Pooh
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