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Health & Fitness

Adopting an Older Pet: What You See Is What You Get

Looking for a four-legged companion? Consider adopting a senior pet! November is Adopt-A-Senior-Pet Month and the beauty of adopting a senior pet is that what you see is what you get.

November is Adopt-A-Senior-Pet Month

Looking for a four-legged companion? Consider adopting a senior pet! The beauty of adopting a senior pet is that what you see is what you get!

According to Maryann Regan, Director of Shelter operations at the Animal Rescue League of Boston, "There are many reasons as to why you should consider adopting a senior pet. For the most part, older pets have passed their critical development stages. Therefore, the personality you see is the personality you get. This might help an adopter make a successful match for his or her lifestyle. For example, senior animals can be calmer and perhaps better trained than their spunky, younger counterparts. For many, this is important criteria in their adopted animal. Some people might also have limitations on the physical characteristics of an animal. For example, the size and weight of a dog might be a determining factor perhaps when living in apartment style housing that has size limitations in the rules and regulations. With an adult or senior dog, what you see is what you get. This too can guide adopters in making the adoption decision that is right for them." If you're looking for a calm cat or dog it's likely that you'll find a senior pet that fits those criteria. Additionally, with a senior pet, you don't have a deal with house training; they're typically already housebroken.  

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The most compelling reason to adopt a senior pet is that these animals deserve to live out the rest of their lives in a loving home.

Shanee (pictured above) is a sweet and gentle 8-year-old spayed female cat who was brought to the shelter due to her owner's allergies. Shanee is the perfect lap cat and is affectionate with everyone! You can learn more about Shanee here or stop by our Boston Adoption Center for some one-on-one time with her.

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We hope you'll open your heart and home to a senior pet this November. If you're unable to adopt we hope you'll consider donating to help us care for senior pets like Shanee.

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