Senior Dogs, Dogs for Seniors
As we grow older, and more sedate (!!) it becomes more and more important to feed that within us that serves to remind us of our humanity, and our ability to love and nurture. It is easier to be aware of those needs when we are young, raising children, having time (and energy) to romp and play with a dog, and having money to care for the animals in our life. Nonetheless, it is equally important to address those essentials as we mature.
I have had dogs all my life (as well as cats, hamsters, mice, chickens, pigs etc. etc. but those are tales for another day!) and consider myself a dog person. Over time, I have developed a great appreciation for the personalities of dogs, and how they fill in “gaps” in our lives; emotional, physical and even creative. So in light of those sentiments, I want to encourage those of you who no longer have pets to consider adopting a dog; and those of you that have pets to consider fostering another one prior to its adoption. The rewards are beyond telling, and science has even proven that pet ownership in the later years is a great way to stay hale and hearty and to create a symbiotic relationship that is healthy!
Several organizations specialize in Senior Dogs. That is to say, older dogs that are given up for adoption, preferably to mature adults who can give them the love and attention they need and deserve in their twilight years. There are also organizations that will provide discounted adoptions, shots, spay/neuter and veterinary care for seniors who have pets. You can do a Google search for groups in your state – or you can contact one of the ones below:
1. Purina Pets for Seniors - The Pets for Seniors program helps to cover the cost of adoption fees and provides product information‚ coupons‚ and a pet care booklet. Purina Pets
2. 2nd Chance 4 Pets – One of the only non-profit national organizations, providing a wide range of information, assistance and research on seniors and their pets.2nd Chance
3. PAWS Seniors for Seniors – Companion placement of animals over 7 with people over 60 They also have information on fostering
PAWS
4. The Senior Dogs Project – Adopting or fostering a senior dog. Senior Dog Project
5. Maddie’s Fund – A great place to get information on organizations that help senior dogs and mature owners. Maddies
In addition, there are “generic” sites that help with pet adoptions and fostering – the best known and most reliable of these is www.petfinder.com, for with that site, you can search in your own area for the pet of your choice. I have also recommended a couple of books in the links below, about dogs in particular, novels and non-fiction both. ENJOY!
Merle's Door: Lessons from a Freethinking Dog
The Art of Racing in the Rain
Caring for your Aging Dog
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