Adopting an Older Pet Isn't a Bad Thing

Here at Easyology Pets, we think adopting a new pet is an exciting time. You get to add a new family member to your home and spend time looking for an animal you connect with. Many people look for puppies and kittens when searching for a new pet. However, you might want to consider adopting an older pet. Here are six reasons to adopt an older pet.

They Are Calmer

Young animals are very cute and small, but they also have a lot of energy. They require long walks, lots of playtime, and may still act crazy. Older pets have outgrown that baby stage, so they’re usually calmer and have better manners. While they still need exercise and activity, they don’t need quite as much as a puppy or kitten. If you have small children or senior citizens in your home, an older pet is a great option.

They’re Less Destructive

Because older pets are typically calmer and already trained, they also tend to be less destructive. They’re much less likely to scratch up the furniture or chew on your favorite pair of shoes.

They Need Less Training

Many older pets in shelters lived with a person or family at some point. They have often already been in a home and have some level of training. You won’t have to spend time teaching your cat to use the litter box or your dog to wait until he can go outside. They may also know many basic commands and how to behave in a house. You will still need to spend time helping them get adjusted to your home, but it will be a lot less work than training a very young pet.

They’re Full Grown

When you adopt a puppy from a shelter, especially one that is a mixed breed, you don’t know exactly what you’re getting. That cute little puppy could end up being well over fifty pounds. With an adult animal, you know exactly how big they are so there are no surprises.

You’re More Likely to Get What You Want

Because so many people are trying to adopt puppies or kittens, there can be a long waiting list to get any animal, let alone one with the specific attributes you want. Unless you’re willing to pay a lot of money to a breeder, you may not be able to get exactly what you’re looking for. You can select size, breed, color, medical history, and more. There are so many older pets in need of great homes, so you have a much larger selection of pets to help you find the perfect one.

They’re Grateful

Older pets know what it’s like to live on the streets or in a shelter. When you bring home an animal that has been abandoned or lived a tough life, it will be extremely grateful. They somehow know that you rescued them and gave them a loving home, and they’ll show their gratitude. Older pets will be loving and loyal for as long as they live.