Four advantages of adopting an older animal

Every year, thousands of healthy adult dogs and cats end up in shelters. Unfortunately, it can be difficult to find these animals new homes.

Part of the problem is that people who adopt their pets tend to prefer younger animals over older ones, mistakenly believing that adults are more at risk of contracting illnesses. They may also worry that an older animal is more prone to experiencing difficulties in adapting to a new environment. But neither of these things are givens. In fact, there are numerous advantages of adopting an adult pet. Here are four of them.

1. They’re trained: adult dogs and cats are housebroken and socialized.

2. They have fewer immediate medical needs: most adult pets have already been vaccinated and spayed or neutered.

3. Their health and behavioral profile are known: in most cases you’ll have a good idea of what to expect when you adopt your older pet.

4. They have many good years left: a dog usually lives to the age of 12 and a cat to the age of 15.

Although puppies and kittens are exuberant and adorable, older pets have just as much to offer. What they lack in youth, they make up for with an abundance of love, loyalty and gratitude.