TOP 10 REASONS TO ADOPT A SENIOR GREYHOUND
November is "Adopt a Senior Pet Month". Senior Greyhounds are the nicest dogs but often the hardest to get adopted. Many people feel that seniors only have a little time left and may have medical problems that will be too expensive or take too much time. The truth is that most Greyhounds live 10-14 years, and Greyhounds as a breed are one of the healthiest pure-bred dogs. Greyhounds are considered “senior” at 6-7 years of age. Most of them still have good years to give a loving family. There are so many reasons to adopt a senior Greyhound, but today we’re going to look at the top 10.
10. Senior greyhounds are fully grown, so you know what you’re getting. They’re low-maintenance – they don’t shed a lot and an occasional brush and a nail clip is all they need.
9. Most older Greyhounds are already potty-trained, although they may not know to ask to go out, particularly if they retired as seniors. You might have to give them the opportunity periodically until they get the hang of asking.
8. If the senior Greyhound has been relinquished, they are most likely already familiar with common commands like "no," "sit," and "stay."
7. Older dogs, especially those who previously experienced human care and affection, are eager to please, gentle and have good manners. They will easily settle into your household, accepting other family members and pets.
6. They are past the puppy stage, so you don’t have to worry about teething puppies chewing your shoes and furniture when you’re not looking.
5. Senior dogs are usually less demanding than younger pups. Older dogs leave you time for yourself because they don’t make the kinds of demands for your time and attention that young dogs do.
4. Most senior Greyhounds have already been socialized and learned what it takes to get along with humans and other pets. You can skip a lot of the training and socialization that puppies require and just get to the cuddling. Older dogs know the routine -- when you open the car door they jump right in.
3.The reward for spending time with your new senior companion is the quick bond you create that builds a special future together. Older dogs are good at giving love once they get into their new, loving home. They’re grateful for the second chance they’ve been given.
2. Dogs can be trained at any age. A senior dog, given a new chance for a loving home, will reward your care with unwavering devotion and do their best to please you, which makes training pretty easy. They are not easily distracted like puppies are. Not to mention, older dogs often make excellent therapy dogs.
1. You can be a hero. By adopting an older Greyhound, you're fighting for the value and beauty of life at all ages and stages. In choosing an older animal, you are truly saving a life. It’s heroic to see beauty and love where others often don't even bother looking and give an older dog a second chance to live out the rest of their life with dignity and love.
For those reluctant to consider a senior because the possibility of a painful loss seems closer, remember that life offers no guarantees. Quality of time together matters so much more than quantity. The oldest Greyhound I heard of belonged to Diana and Kenneth Hardin. They raised and raced Aphrodite, who continued to live with them after she retired. “Dydee”, as they called her, was 21 years old in November 2010, and would turn 22 in April 2011.
You just never know how long you will have with a dog. That’s why you have to treasure every day. Senior Greyhounds are truly one of the easiest pets you will ever have, and one of the most deserving of a loving home.
You might be interested in these past articles:
Does Your Greyhound Have Arthritis?
10 Essential Items for Our Senior Greys