Many people automatically think of a puppy when they think of adopting a dog. Puppies are warm and cuddly, and everyone wants to hold and pet them. But puppies demand patience and energy to help them become wonderful family members and companions. Older dogs, however, can be as cute and lovable as puppies, and they often come with many wonderful qualities that puppies take years to grow into.

Maybe you are reluctant to adopt a senior dog because you fear that your time with your new best friend will be short, bringing that painful time of loss closer. But the privilege of loving a senior dog makes every single day special, as you and your companion share love, friendship, and a special relationship that grows stronger with the knowledge that you have given this fine old dog a second chance at life. The love that grows from this knowledge is stronger than the pain of eventual separation.

So spread the word! Adopting a senior dog is a wonderful experience for you and your new dog. You will gain a faithful companion. You will save a life. And don’t forget, senior dogs and senior people bring out the best in each other. Old dogs make great friends!

9 Reasons to Adopt a Senior Dog

• Senior dogs love to sleep and cuddle the day away. They enjoy a brisk daily walk, but the best part of the day is the nap. They love for you to join them.
• Senior dogs have a tremendous amount of love to give. When you rescue a senior dog, you have a best friend for life. Senior dogs reward your care with unwavering devotion. Nothing matches the gratitude of a senior dog for his rescuer.
• Senior dogs have learned many of life’s lessons. They know, for example, that shoes are for walking and bones are for chewing.
• Senior dogs know that the great outdoors is for eliminating and the house is for relaxing. Your carpet will last longer with a senior dog.
• Senior dogs can learn new tricks and be valuable family and community members. They make excellent therapy dogs.
• Senior dogs often fit into your household with ease. They find the softest, warmest spot in the house and claim it for their own, but they will share with you, too.
• Senior dogs make excellent companions for everyone, especially senior people.
• Senior dogs are often overlooked in shelters and pounds. Passed over for cute and cuddly puppies, they often do not have a chance and must go to make space for more puppies.
• Adopting a senior dog saves a life!