Adopting an older dog
It’s a sad fact that when it comes to finding homes for dogs it is much easier to find families willing to take in younger dogs than it is older ones.
However, it’s often older dogs who are in the biggest need. All together there are an estimated 600 million stray dogs across the world, and over 17,000 rescue dogs are rehomed each year in the UK.
Older dogs tend to be overlooked for a host of reasons. Many dog owners prefer to adopt a dog at a young age so that they can watch it grow and have as long together as possible. People also worry that older dogs may have lots of health conditions that make them expensive to look after. However, because of this they often overlook the positive aspects of adopting an older dog, of which there are many.
Why you should consider adopting an older dog
First of all, dogs are fantastic companions no matter what age they are. The bond and kinship that you receive from a dog will be there no matter how old they might be. Older dogs tend to be better behaved, have better manners, are typically house trained and can be a more calming influence in a home when compared with a new puppy. While some older dogs do have more health issues than young ones, you can sometimes apply for financial support from the Dogs Trust to help you cope with any unexpected costs due to ill health.
Why do dogs end up in rehoming centres?
Dog shelters in the UK are very stretched and are seeing more and more pets arrive every day at their shelters. The reasons that people give up their dogs can be varied, and while some pets are sadly unwanted and neglected, a great many are given up with a heavy heart. It might be that the owner has fallen ill, has lost their job, or for some other reason can simply not provide for their dog anymore. Dogs can also end up in rehoming centres when their owner sadly dies and their next of kin are unable to provide their pet with a home. Some people also decide to rehome their dog because they feel the dog’s behavioural problems are too complex for them to handle and unfortunately some people just decide that they do not want a dog anymore, and grow tired of it.
How does the process work?
If you have decided that you would like to give a dog a new home then the best place to start is to look for a local rescue kennel nearby, either by searching online or phoning a charity like the Dogs Trust, Blue Cross or Battersea Dogs & Cats Home.
When rehoming an older dog, it’s important that you know what to expect and that you are ready to deal with any problems that might occur. As your dog can’t communicate in words to you, you can never truly know what is has been through in it’s life. Some dogs do have complex issues that require behaviour therapy to help resolve. However, this should not put you off rehoming a dog and giving it a second chance at a happy life.
WitsEnd has been heralded the most successful behaviour and dog obedience practice in the UK. With over 2000 cases, our behaviour practice is at the forefront of its industry and is respected by both the clients it has helped and the veterinary practices it closely works with. To find out more, arrange a consultation or book on to a class please contact us on 0116 244 2455.