Benefits of adopting a senior pet

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If you’ve ever walked through the SPCA (or any other an animal shelter or rescue), you may have noticed the calm, greying faces of older dogs or cats quietly waiting in their kennels. Often overlooked in favour of puppies and kittens, these senior pets have just as much love to give—and plenty of reasons to consider bringing one home.

Benefits of adopting

First, let’s talk about the benefits of adopting a pet instead of getting your new furry family member from a breeder.

There are approximately 4 million stray dogs and cats in South Africa. This is due in part to lack of access to pet healthcare, and many stray dogs and cats remaining unsterilised, leading to even more puppies and kittens being born without a home.

By adopting a new furry family member, you are giving them an opportunity to live in a safe, happy home instead of living on the street or in a shelter.

Reasons to adopt a senior pet

If you’re still not convinced about adopting a pet, let us tell you why adopting a senior pet is so great!

Discover: What is the best pet insurance plan for older dogs?

Temperament

Senior pets have outgrown their boisterous puppy and kitten years. This generally means that older pets have lower energy levels and require less exercise. If you are not very active, or prefer a more laid-back and slow-paced lifestyle, then adopting a senior pet may be perfect for you!

Training

Older dogs and cats have usually been house trained, and even if they are lacking this skill, older pets have the physical and mental abilities to learn quickly compared to puppies and kittens.

The ability to learn things doesn’t only apply to being house broken, but also other new tricks and commands (yes, you CAN teach an old dog new tricks!)

What you see is what you get

With an older dog or cat, you don’t have to wonder how big they will get because they are already fully grown. This means you can choose a pet whose size fits perfectly with your living space and lifestyle, whether that’s a compact apartment or a spacious house with a big garden for them to roam around in.

Additionally, senior pets often come with established personalities, so you’ll have a better idea of their temperament, behaviour and preferences before bringing them home. This transparency helps avoid surprises related to energy levels, social habits, or quirks, making the transition smoother for both you and your new companion.

You can also assess any health concerns upfront, as older pets have usually been through vet check-ups and may have known medical histories. This allows you to prepare and plan for their specific care needs from the start.

Related: Senior Pet Care: The Importance of Pet Insurance

Require less supervision

Senior pets typically require less supervision than younger animals. They are often calmer, more settled, and less likely to get into trouble around the house. Unlike puppies and kittens who might chew or scratch furniture, get into household items, or have bursts of hyperactivity, senior pets tend to be more content resting quietly or following a predictable routine. Their calmer nature makes them easier to manage, especially for busy households or individuals who may not have the time or energy to constantly watch over a boisterous young pet who us still learning right from wrong.

Requiring less supervision also makes them ideal companions for families with children, singles living alone, or older adults who want a loving pet without the demands of high maintenance.

They have lots of love left to give!

Despite their age, senior pets have a huge capacity for love and companionship. Many of these animals have experienced hardship or abandonment and are deeply appreciative of a second chance at a happy life. Their gratitude often translates into strong, loyal bonds with their adopters. Older pets seem to understand the kindness they’ve been shown by being adopted and repay it with affection and devotion.

Adopting a senior pet means welcoming a calm and loving companion into your home, who cherishes every moment with you. They bring warmth, comfort and joy, proving that love doesn’t diminish with age.

Read next: Preparing to Adopt a Pet: Before & After Bringing Them Home

Adopting a senior pet is a practical and rewarding choice. These animals are typically easier to care for, have established behaviours and can fit well into a variety of lifestyles. Giving a senior pet a home not only improves their quality of life but can also bring a steady, dependable companion into yours. If you’re looking for a pet with a known personality and manageable needs, a senior pet is definitely worth considering.

Yours In Not-So-Average Pet Advice

The Petinsurance.co.za Team

#NotYourAveragePetAdvice