There are many things in life that will bring a person happiness, but there are only certain things that will bring fulfillment: mine was adopting a senior dog. Everybody wants the joyful chirpiness of a puppy, but they don’t want to deal with the potty training and obliteration of furniture. Nobody tells you that this stage is rarely existent with a senior dog. Senior dogs normally are potty trained, well-mannered, and very lovable. In fact, they usually crave attention more than most puppies.
Some senior dogs have the longest times spent in shelters. My dog Berta was in the shelter for four years before we rescued her. Although those numbers were sad to hear within, seconds of adopting her the anxiety and stress of being isolated went away. It seemed as though she knew right off the bat that these people and this place was going to be forever. When she got home she jumped on the bed and fell right asleep. She slept through the night and woke us up to use the restroom. It was a relief to know that she felt safe and secure. It also was a perk that she was potty trained and well behaved! Still to this day her routine and positive outlook is consistent!
A lot of people stress about the expenses, time, and work that goes into owning a senior dog, I can honestly say none of those things have occurred yet with Berta. My recommendation is not to let those aspects hold you back from adopting a senior dog. It is hard to see the graying faces of so many beautiful and amazing dogs at the shelter and my hope is more people will lean towards adopting senior dogs.
This type of connection and love is rare. It takes a very special individual to adopt a senior dog. My advice is to be open minded and more aware of senior dogs the next time you consider adoption. The perks are endless and the fulfillment is everlasting!
By: Emme Moorehouse