Give an old dog a new home

To the Editor:
Be a hero to dogs young and old.

October means pumpkin spice lattes, fall temperatures, and leaves turning color, but it’s also a chance to be a hero to a dog in need.

For thousands of years, dogs have been our best friends, our protectors and often our personal heroes, improving and even saving lives. That is why each October for more than 40 years, American Humane has encouraged animal lovers to repay the favor by adopting a dog from a local shelter or rescue group during its annual Adopt-a-Dog Month.

While adopting a puppy or younger dog is great, we do hope you will also consider adopting a senior dog. The sad truth of the matter is that senior animals spend the longest time at shelters and rescues, and tragically, animals past the age of six or seven are often deemed unadoptable solely because of their age.

Both dogs and cats of advanced age have higher euthanasia rates than their younger counterparts since they struggle to find homes. They can often live out the rest of their lives in the shelter, homeless and alone.

There are many reasons a senior animal can end up at a shelter, but most are affectionate, wonderful companions who have just faced unfortunate circumstances. There are numerous benefits to a senior dog as well: they tend to be less rambunctious than younger dogs; they’re often already house-trained; they’re a great fit for people with busy lifestyles; they’re so grateful for a second chance and will give you lots of love and thanks.

Older animals that have lacked a secure home environment, once they know they are safe, they will always love and trust their owner. They still have so much to offer, so this Adopt-a-Dog Month, I encourage everyone who is looking to add a new furry companion to their family to stop and say hello to some of the older dogs at the shelter.

Open your heart and your home, and you may just find your new best friend.

Dr. Robin Ganzert

President and CEO

American Humane

Editor’s note: American Humane is a not-for-profit organization founded in 1877 and headquartered in Washington, D.C.

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