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Ithaca … Hannah- a terrier mix- and Libby- a black and white ticked hound mix- were cold, hungry and suffering from bad ear and skin infections when they found their way to the Tompkins County SPCA back in November. Even though both girls are housetrained with perfect manners and love to play and go for walks, they’re still here, six months later. Everyday they watch as crowds of people pass them by to check out puppies and younger dogs. For pets like Hannah and Libby, the TC SPCA is encouraging potential adopters to discover the benefits of adopting an older pet.

Senior pets can and do bond very strongly with adopters. Many seem to understand they have been given another chance at a happy life and are grateful for the opportunity to love someone and be loved in return.

At animal shelters like the TC SPCA across the nation, there is an abundance of healthy senior pets looking for a special home to cherish them for the rest of their life. Although shaping the life of a youngster sounds appealing, giving a second chance to an older companion can be equally rewarding. They like to share quiet moments, are often already trained and don’t chew or scratch everything in sight. “Older pets have plenty to offer adopters – not the least of which is love,” says Sandy Snyder, TC SPCA Shelter Manager. “Instead of passing by them in the shelter, stop in for a cuddle and you may find the most wonderful companion possible!”

Some of the benefits of adopting a senior pet are:

  • What you see is what you get. With adopted older dogs and cats, you will usually know about any behavior challenges or health considerations before you adopt. In other words, there are few surprises.
  • Previous training. Adult animals often already know how to live harmoniously with humans. In general, adult dogs and cats require far less supervision and less constant care, which can make them ideal companions for people with already busy lives. They may already be litter box or housetrained. An older dog might also have some obedience training.
  • Physical demands are low. Fortunately, senior animals are not as demanding as a younger animal. Like any animal, they need quality time in the form of attention and walks. They may be more content to sleep and curl up at your feet and nap. The nice thing about older animals is that they will prefer quiet walks to running or active play and will usually not pull you around on the leash or jump up on you.
  • Matching lifestyles. An adult animal’s relatively calm demeanor and less intense exercise needs make them the perfect match for an older person seeking friendship and love and in a full-time working household. They often make excellent or at the very least, agreeable companions for other animals.

The Tompkins County SPCA’s Dorothy and Roy Park Pet Adoption Center is located at 1640 Hanshaw Road in Ithaca, and is open 7 days a week from noon to 5:30pm. Check out our adoptable animals on our website www.SPCAonline.com or call us at (607) 257-1822.

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