Adopting Mature Pets

Many times, people are not too hard to persuade when a tiny, fuzzy kitten or a bouncy little puppy needs a home.  But finding homes for mature pets can be more challenging.  It's difficult to understand why.  Although all animals in shelters need homes, older pets are more often left behind.  More mature pets have many advantages, but don't just take my word for it... check out these different links, and decide for yourself. This page is here to draw attention to older pets and some of the benefits of a more mature animal.

"Veterinarians use the term "senior" to refer to dogs usually
seven or older and cats that are ten years or more of age.
A 'senior' pet is a descriptive term, not a disease."
--  Ken Eisenberg, D.V.M., Pet Health Watch

Advice from the Animal Behavorist

All Grown Up -- The Unique Joys of  Mature Pets

Island Life: Mature Pets Are Fun to Adopt

Senior Partners: Older Americans and Mature Pets

Do Senior Animals Really Make Good Pets? from Cyber-Pet

Some Fast Facts on Mature Pets from InterLinc
 

"But don't misunderstand: Although older pets may be less demanding,
that's not to say adult animals don't require pet parents to be responsible
and devoted -- all animals require a lifelong commitment."
--  Rebecca Simmons, Outreach Communications Coordinator for the HSUS.

A message from an older shelter cat...

A message from an older shelter dog...