Celebrating Adopt a Senior Pet Month!

Each November, National Adopt a Senior Pet Month reminds us of the many older animals waiting in shelters for a loving home. This month-long celebration shines a light on the joys and benefits of adopting senior pets, who often get overlooked in favor of younger animals. Puppies and kittens are adorable, yes, but there’s something truly special about older pets. Let’s explore why senior pets deserve just as much love, and how adopting one can bring warmth, companionship, and joy into your life.

The Meaning Behind National Adopt a Senior Pet Month

National Adopt a Senior Pet Month was created by animal advocates and shelters to raise awareness of the challenges faced by older pets in shelters. While puppies and kittens are often adopted quickly, senior animals—typically defined as those seven years or older—tend to wait longer. Sadly, some may live out their remaining days in shelters. This month encourages potential pet owners to give these loving animals a chance at a new, comfortable life in their later years.

Shelters across the country participate by offering reduced fees or special events focused on senior pet adoptions. Many shelters highlight stories of older animals who have found happiness in new homes, showing that these animals still have so much to give. By adopting a senior pet, you can be part of this movement to give them a second chance.

Why Choose a Senior Pet?

If you’re considering bringing a pet into your life, here are some compelling reasons why senior animals might be the perfect fit:

Calm, Loving Companions 

Older pets have typically outgrown the energetic, sometimes chaotic, behavior of puppies and kittens. Most senior dogs and cats are already past the chewing, scratching, and “getting into everything” phase. This makes them ideal for people looking for a calm, relaxed companion who can fit more easily into their lifestyle. Senior pets often thrive on human interaction and are content to spend time snuggling, lounging, or simply hanging out by your side.

Established Personalities 

With senior pets, you know what you’re getting. Their personalities are fully developed, so it’s easier to match their temperament with your own lifestyle. Some may be laid-back and calm, others are still playful and love a good game of fetch or laser pointer. If you meet an older pet and feel a connection, it’s more likely to be a true match than with a younger animal still developing their personality.

Grateful Companions

There’s a common belief that adopted senior pets seem to “know” they’ve been given a second chance. Many owners of senior pets talk about the sense of gratitude and loyalty their animals show, as if they understand the kindness and compassion of being taken into a loving home. This connection can create an especially deep and rewarding bond between you and your pet.

Easier Transitions and Less Training Needed 

Senior pets are often well-adjusted to home life. Many already know basic commands or have experience with litter boxes or housetraining. They’re more likely to understand the household routine, making it easier to integrate them into a new environment. This is a wonderful advantage for first-time pet owners or those who may not have the time for the rigorous training that young pets require.

A Few Things to Keep in Mind

While senior pets bring many benefits, there are a few things to consider when adopting an older animal:

• Health Considerations: Some senior pets may have health conditions requiring regular check-ups or medication, just as older humans do. However, with proper care, many of these pets continue to live healthy, happy lives. Understanding any medical needs upfront can help ensure a smooth transition.
• Shorter Time Together: It’s true that adopting a senior pet may mean fewer years together compared to adopting a puppy or kitten. However, the joy and love shared during those years can be deeply fulfilling, and many owners of senior pets feel that even a few years of companionship and joy are well worth it.

How You Can Help This November

National Adopt a Senior Pet Month is a fantastic time to think about how you can make a difference for an older pet in need. Here are some ways you can help:

Consider Adopting

If you’ve been thinking about adding a pet to your family, consider adopting a senior animal. Shelters and rescue groups often have senior pet adoption events this month, and many offer discounted adoption fees for older pets.

Volunteer at a Shelter

Even if you’re not able to adopt, volunteering with senior pets at a local shelter can make a big difference. Many senior animals benefit from extra care, attention, and love, and you can help make their time at the shelter more comfortable.

Share Their Stories

Help spread the word about the benefits of adopting senior pets. Social media is a powerful tool—sharing photos and stories of senior pets waiting for homes can raise awareness and might even inspire someone else to adopt.

Foster a Senior Pet

If you’re not ready for a long-term commitment, consider fostering a senior pet. This allows you to provide a safe and loving home while they wait for their forever family. Fostering can give a senior pet a chance to thrive outside of the shelter environment, which can be an invaluable experience for them.

The Gift of a Second Chance

There’s something truly magical about giving an older pet a second chance. Adopting a senior animal is a beautiful act of compassion, one that benefits both you and the animal. Senior pets offer companionship, love, and loyalty, and in return, they ask for a warm bed, a gentle hand, and a place in your heart.

This National Adopt a Senior Pet Month, consider opening your home to an older pet. They might just be the perfect match you never expected. When you adopt a senior pet, you’re not just giving them a home; you’re giving them the gift of a loving family for their golden years, and in return, they’ll fill your life with gratitude, love, and countless moments of joy.

Ensuring Quality Care for Senior Pets

Adopting a senior pet brings joy, companionship, and a deep sense of purpose as you provide a loving home to an animal in its golden years. While older pets may have unique health needs, pet insurance can be a valuable resource, covering unexpected medical expenses and routine care so that you can focus on sharing quality time together. Many pet insurance plans welcome senior pets, so you can still enroll an older animal and ensure they receive the best care possible without financial strain. Choosing to adopt a senior pet means embracing the wisdom and love they offer, and pet insurance can help you provide them the comfort and care they deserve.

References:

1. https://animalfoundation.com/whats-going-on/blog/10-reasons-adopt-senior-pet
2. https://bestfriends.org/stories/features/8-reasons-adopt-senior-pet
3. https://www.petfinder.com/adopt-or-get-involved/adopting-pets/about/november-is-adopt-a-senior-pet-month/

Disclaimer

The information contained on this blog is intended for informational and educational purposes only and should not be construed as medical advice. It is not a substitute for professional veterinary care. Always consult with your veterinarian before making any changes to your pet's health care or treatment plan.

The authors of this blog are not veterinarians and do not claim to be experts in pet health. The information provided here is based on our own experiences and research, as well as information from reputable sources. However, we cannot guarantee the accuracy or completeness of this information.

We encourage you to do your own research and consult with your veterinarian before making any decisions about your pet's health.