Adopting Senior Pets: The Biggest Misconceptions & Everything You Need to Know

Senior pets have so much life and love to gift to their pet parents. But sadly, they can often be overlooked during the adoption process because of common misconceptions and myths about what it is like to own a senior pet. Of course, you always need to consider if any pet is the right fit for you, and a senior pet can have more unique needs to be mindful of. However, welcoming an ageing pet into your home can be an incredibly enriching experience and be the start of so many special memories. 

So, let’s bust some myths about what it is like to adopt a senior pet: 

Myth 1: You can’t teach an old pet news tricks 

You may have been led to believe that older pets aren’t active, or don’t enjoy playing or being social. Far from it! While how they play may look a little different as they age, senior pets still have so much personality, energy and curiosity. Whether it be walks around nearby parks or beaches, or having fun with a new toy, they still need plenty of mental and physical stimulation to keep them active. In fact, experts say that our ‘golden oldies’ staying active in their latter stages of life is even more important for keeping them healthy and happy. With it being easier than ever to find information and ideas to engage your senior pets, you will have no trouble finding activities and toys to keep your older pet loving life. 

Myth 2: It’s hard to bond with any senior pet 

You may think that you will struggle to bond with an older pet because they have had traumatic or difficult experiences in their earlier years. While there are pets that come with a more notable background or emotional needs that will need additional care, this is not necessarily the norm. In fact, many senior pets come from loving homes and are so grateful for a second chance at a forever home. Senior pets have many beautiful ways of showing gentle love that are an irreplaceable addition to any family. If you love sharing thoughtful moments and cuddles with those you love, a senior pet could be perfect for you. Want some proof? Check out this all-too-sweet video of Ginny - a 13 year old cat who is now 15 years old and is thriving in her new home. 

Myth 3: If you have a senior pet, you will always be drowning in vet bills 

You may think that older pets are up for adoption because they were coming at a huge expense to their previous family, and the price tag was only going to grow with age. While senior pets can have more frequent and complex needs that can mean higher care costs, there can be many reasons that a senior pet is up for adoption. For instance, they may be up for adoption due to their owner passing away or a changed living situation for their owners. All pets, young and old, can bring high pet care costs, and while older pets may see you feeling more of the pinch, there are ways you can ease the hit. For instance, considering payment plans at your local vet, looking into appropriate pet insurance or following a pet care budget. You can check out more tips for budgeting for a senior pet in our recent blogpost. 

Myth 4: Senior pets will struggle to settle into a new home

You may think that having an ageing furry family member join your home will mean that it will be tricky for an animal, who is set in their ways, to integrate into your routine and lifestyle. Of course, it’s important to offer any pet patience and understanding as they settle into a new space, as there will be an inevitable transition. But, you may be pleasantly surprised by how great a senior pet is in a new environment. They are often already house trained, can be comfortable within busier home environments, and are comfortable to enjoy their own company if you’re not home all the time. 

Myth 5: Senior pets aren’t a good fit for young families 

If you have a young family, you may think that the best pet for you is a younger pet. But, senior pets can also make amazing additions to young families. Older pets can bring a calmer energy into a rambunctious household, and an existing comfort level with busyness and people. As they may not be as raucous or mischievous as puppies or kittens, they can also be perfect for different sized living spaces or to not contribute to the mess that your human little ones are already making! Need some more convincing? Read our recent blog post on why a senior pet may be a dream pet for a young family. 

Senior pets can often be overlooked in the adoption process because of these commonly held beliefs. But don’t be fooled! Not falling into the trap of overlooking the incredible love and special experience of adopting a senior pet can be one of the more rewarding experiences for you and your family.