Introduction
Senior dogs are often the ideal companions for seniors looking for love, companionship, and a loyal friend in their golden years. These furry friends not only bring joy and comfort but also offer numerous benefits to seniors’ physical and emotional well-being.
The Bond Between Senior Dogs and Seniors
The bond between senior dogs and seniors is truly special. Both are at a stage in life where they can appreciate the value of time spent together. Senior dogs are often calm, gentle, and understanding, making them the perfect match for seniors who may be looking for a low-maintenance pet to share their days with.
Benefits to Seniors of Living with a Senior Dog
Living with a senior dog can have a positive impact on a senior’s wellbeing in many ways. These loving companions provide emotional support, reduce feelings of loneliness, and encourage seniors to stay active and engaged. Additionally, caring for a senior dog can give seniors a sense of purpose and fulfilment.
Senior Dogs: The Perfect Exercise Buddy
Staying active is essential for seniors to maintain their health and mobility. Senior dogs can be the perfect exercise buddies, encouraging seniors to go for daily walks and stay active. This physical activity not only benefits the senior dog but also helps seniors stay fit and healthy.
Seniors with mobility issues can still share their life with an old dog. I’ve seen many people on mobility scooters walk their dogs. The great thing about this is, the scooter allows the dog to walk as quickly or as slowly as he needs to, and can even hop on for a lift when he or she needs a break.
Emotional Support and Companionship
Senior dogs have a unique ability to provide emotional support and companionship to seniors. Their loyal and loving nature can help seniors combat feelings of loneliness and depression. Having a senior dog by their side can bring joy and comfort to seniors, making each day brighter and more meaningful.
Where Can a Senior Adopt a Senior
Many shelters and rescues have a “seniors for seniors” program, and I’ve listed some below. To see if there’s one in your area, in your search engine simply type in seniors for seniors or senior dogs for seniors and the name of your city or province.
Another idea is to search for a local senior dog rescue. They will likely be foster based, which means they don’t have an actual building but their dogs live with fosters in their home until a forever family is found. You will have a lot more information about the dog and his or her needs, so it will be easier to find the right match for you.
Check your local shelters as well, since they may have seniors available for adoption.
NOTE: Senior cats are also available.
Conclusion
In conclusion, senior dogs make wonderful companions for people of all ages, and of course seniors as well. Their loving nature, calm demeanor, and numerous health benefits make them the perfect match for seniors looking for a loyal friend to share their days with. Consider adopting a senior dog today and experience the joy and love they can bring into your life.
Resources
Pet Helper’s Seniors for Seniors Adoption Program (South Carolina)
Mini Mutts Senior for Senior Program (Dallas)
Big Dog Ranch Seniors for Seniors Program (Florida)
Helping Paws Senior to Senior (Illinois)
I’m excited to announce my new Senior Dog Care Support Service.
I offer 1:1 support on everything from health & wellness advice and training tips, to preparing to say goodbye and grief counselling. You can find details on all the packages I offer by visiting the Senior Dog Care Support Service page. If you have any questions or would like to book your FREE 15 minute chat, please email hpearson141@gmail.com
I’ve been rescuing and caring for senior dogs since 2009. From vision and hearing loss to obesity, dementia, kidney disease, liver issues, cardiac problems, Cushing’s, mobility challenges and more, you could say I’ve dealt with and learned a lot! In addition to my hands on experience, I’ve taken many courses and earned several qualifications to keep learning how to help senior dogs and they include: Senior Dog Enrichment, Understanding Canine Anxiety, Care of the Senior Pet and I’m a Certified Pet Loss Specialist.