Adopting senior animal companions

Young puppies and kittens are adorable and playful – they also require a lot of time and training, and they are balls of energy. If this doesn’t sound like the right fit for your family, a senior furry family member may be for you! It is important to find an animal companion that is compatible with your lifestyle. The Ontario SPCA and Humane Society considers cats to be senior at 10 years old, and dogs are considered senior at the age of eight, but maturity does depend on breed and size.   

Here’s why senior pets are awesome!   

Senior maturity   

• Younger animals are still in the process of learning, developing and growing. Senior furry friends are fully matured, meaning their temperaments and personalities have already been established.    

• Senior animals give you a better sense of their personality and needs, as well as how compatible the two of you will be!   

Cool as a cucumber   

• Most senior furballs tend to be calmer and more laidback, which is why they often do well in houses with young children or first-time pet parents.    

• Exercise is still very important for senior animals, but they do not have as much energy as their younger counterparts.   

Old dog, new tricks    

• Senior dogs tend to have longer attention spans compared to younger dogs, which make them easier to train.    

• Your senior dog will likely already be housebroken and familiar with basic training and household etiquette.    

• It is also likely they have already spent time socializing around humans and other animals.   

Another reason why you should consider adopting a senior animal companion is because they are often overlooked and tend to stay in shelters longer. Many people who have chosen to adopt an older dog or cat will tell you that senior furry family members seem to understand the second chance you are giving them and form a special bond with their new family.  

Ready to adopt? Visit ontariospca.ca/adopt to view our animals currently available for adoption.  

Visit our blog to read some heartwarming senior adoption stories!   

As a registered charity that does not receive annual government funding, the Ontario SPCA and Humane Society depends on the generosity of donors to change the lives of animals in need. If this information was helpful, please help us continue to educate about pet health and well-being by making a donation.