Be a Hero, Adopt an Older Dog

Older dogs can find their way to the after losing their homes for many reasons. Most reasons have nothing to do with the dog and everything to do with the person surrendering them.

More often than not, you’ll find delightful, beautiful and often well-trained older pets alone for the first time in their lives–just waiting; waiting for someone to give them a second chance at finding a good home.

Did you know that vets say dogs fall into the “senior” category around the age of 7? But in a shelter, a dog as young as 5 may have trouble finding a new home, because many prospective adopters believe they are already over-the-hill. This simply isn’t true. When given the appropriate care, love and exercise, dogs can and will remain active, playful and happily puppy-like well into their later years.

The Benefits of Adopting a Senior Pup

Generally, older dogs have had some obedience and house training, so they know what "no" means and they’ve learned many of life’s lessons–they know shoes are for walking and bones are for chewing.

They settle into new homes easily, and they’ve already learned what it takes to get along with others to become part of their “pack”. (And, in many cases, they get along with other dogs and in some other cases, even cats). They have already mellowed, so they can focus on life and anything you may want to teach them.

Older dogs can be less demanding of your attention, because most don’t need the same exercise regimen that a puppy needs and would rather cuddle up with you on the couch and take a nap. They gratefully acclimate to your schedule if they know they are loved and well cared for. And they are a known commodity, because you can easily assess their behavior and temperament, and you never have to guess how big they'll grow!

Worried about the cost of adopting an older dog? Veterinary attention and medication are needed at all ages and may or may not be more costly for an older dog. With a health assessment, you’ll know whether an age-related condition is present, and you can take appropriate measures to address it.

The senior animals at the Agoura Animal Shelter all have had senior wellness exams and have been health “vetted,” which includes appropriate labs and tests so that potential customers can be assured up front of their present health. Otherwise, older dogs need all the same things younger dogs do–good nutrition, exercise, love, attention and regular visits to the vet.

By adopting a senior dog, you make a statement about your compassion and the value of life at any age. Just as a puppy has his whole life ahead of him, an older dog still has the rest of his life in front of him too!

At shelters, older dogs are often the last to be adopted and the first to be euthanized. Saving an animal’s life offers an unmatched emotional return on your investment, and you’ll feel the rewards each and every day you spend together. Come see these senior sweethearts at the Agoura Animal Shelter today.

Be sure to look through the attached photos. All of these dogs are available for adoption.

Cat Lover? We have many senior kitties available for adoption too. Come by and visit them, too.

Occasionally, pets have already been adopted. To check availability, call 818-991-0071 or visit the .