Are you considering adding a furry friend to your family? Have you thought about adopting a senior pet? While puppies and kittens may be cute and irresistible, there are numerous benefits to adopting an older pet. In this blog post, we'll explore the many reasons why adopting a senior pet is a wonderful choice and how it can deeply enrich your life.
How Old is Senior?
First of all, let's clarify what we mean by a senior pet. Typically, these pets are seven years of age or older. However, this can vary depending on the breed and species. Unfortunately, senior pets are often overlooked in shelters and rescue centers in favour of younger animals. We think this is such a shame! Senior pets have so much to offer and make excellent companions.
Benefits of Adopting a Senior Pet
One of the biggest benefits of adopting an older companion is that they’re often already trained or partially trained. Unlike puppies and kittens, senior dogs and cats usually don’t need housebreaking or basic command training. They often come with good manners, are housebroken, and understand basic routines. This means less work and frustration for you as a pet owner. It also makes the transition into their new home much smoother.
Another great advantage of senior pets is their calm and relaxed nature. Younger animals, like puppies and kittens, are often full of energy and require constant attention. In contrast, older pets are usually content to relax and spend time with their humans. They don’t need as much exercise or stimulation to stay happy. This makes them a great fit for people with busy schedules or quieter lifestyles.
Senior pets also bring an incredible amount of love into a home. They tend to be very affectionate and loyal. Many have experienced loss or change and are deeply grateful for a second chance. Their bond with their new family can be especially strong. They offer companionship that’s comforting, warm, and consistent.
While senior pets may need more frequent vet visits, they’re past the phase of chewing furniture or causing chaos. They’re less likely to get into trouble or engage in destructive behaviour. This means fewer emergency vet visits and less stress for you. In many ways, senior pets offer the best of both worlds: calm, loving companionship and a smoother path to pet parenthood.
Cost of a Senior Pet
But what about the cost of caring for an older pet? While it’s true that seniors may need more frequent vet visits and occasional specialized care, the overall experience can still be affordable—and incredibly rewarding. In fact, there are many ways to keep costs manageable while ensuring your pet enjoys a comfortable, happy life.
Here are a few ways to make senior pet care more affordable:
- Discounted vet services – Many animal welfare groups offer reduced-cost checkups for senior pets.
- Affordable medications – Generic or subsidized prescriptions can lower the cost of ongoing treatments.
- Non-profit support programs – Some shelters or rescues offer vouchers or financial assistance for seniors.
- Less need for training – Older pets are often already housebroken and know basic commands, saving you money on training classes.
- Lower activity needs – Seniors typically require fewer toys, gear, or daycare services compared to high-energy younger pets.
- Let’s not forget: the cost of caring for a senior pet pales in comparison to the unconditional love and companionship they provide. If you’re thinking about adding a furry friend to your family, consider adopting a senior cat or dog. Not only will you be giving a loving home to a deserving animal, but you’ll also be gaining a loyal, calm, and affectionate companion.
Older pets are often overlooked, but they have so much to offer. They deserve to live out their golden years in comfort and love. Adopting a senior pet is a wonderful choice for anyone looking for a low-maintenance, loving companion. They’re typically well-trained, more relaxed than younger animals, and provide countless emotional and even health benefits.
Finally, choosing to adopt a senior pet is a deeply compassionate decision. Many older dogs and cats end up in shelters due to heartbreaking circumstances like the loss or illness of their previous owners. Giving them a second chance not only changes their life—it enriches yours in return. So, the next time you’re visiting a shelter or rescue, don’t overlook the grey muzzles and gentle eyes. Your perfect match might just be waiting there.
Where to Find a Senior Companion
If you're looking to adopt a senior pet in your area, try the Humane Society. Or, if you're local to central Alberta check out our partners Saving Grace Animal Society or Paws and Claws Animal Rescue to find your new best friend. Don't forget to stock up on necessary supplies like food, treats and toys to spoil your new senior companion! Check out our Facebook and Instagram pages for new product promotions and store information.