Adopting a Senior Dog Is Awesome! - The Senior Dogs Project

Tux with Andy and Teri G., adopted from Peace of Mind Dog Rescue, Pacific Grove, CA. Photo by Jane Goldman

What’s so amazing about adopting a senior dog?

Senior dogs are great for families, people who work, and senior people — just about anyone who wants a dog grown up enough and ready to be a loyal and loving companion. Adopting a senior dog is also an act of kindness and social responsibility: you’re saving the life of a dog who might otherwise be euthanized AND discouraging pet overpopulation. What’s so great about senior dogs? See the Top Ten Reasons to adopt one, and read testimonials to the joys of living with one….

Monterey, CA -- 6-year-old Wrigley, a real sweetie-pie! — Six-year-old “Wrigley” was adopted from Peace of Mind Dog Rescue in Monterey, CA

How will you know if a specific senior dog is the one for you or your family?

That is soooooo easy! Go online to check out websites of shelters and rescue groups, arrange a virtual or in-person visit (depending on local COVID-19 guidelines), and chat with the group’s counselors. Dogs are considered “senior” even when they’re as young as 5 or 6 because prospective adopters usually want puppies.

Shelters and some rescue groups have an in-house veterinarian to assess a dog’s health prior to adoption.

What about the potential costs of healthcare for a senior dog?

Some rescue groups and shelters have their own in-house veterinarians and will do all they can to assess a dog’s health and fitness and to prepare the dog for adoption. It’s true that, as a dog ages, health issues can arise. But health care for puppies can also be costly. To help keep your senior dog as healthy as possible, check out these tips. More questions about senior dog adoption? Click here for answers.

Links to important information: Centers for Disease Control on COVID-19; Rimadyl and NSAIDs; Client Information Sheets

The Dangers of Heat

Adjust your own and your dog’s activity level when the weather is warm. For all dogs, but especially for seniors, a hot day means shorter, slower walks and more resting in the shade or in an air-conditioned room. Provide lots of access to fresh cold water — in several locations that are easily accessible. And, of course, NEVER leave any child or any dog unattended in a locked car — even when it doesn’t seem that warm outside. According to Consumer Reports, “Parents and others must remain vigilant about the ongoing danger of children and pets dying in hot cars. With many families working from home and practicing social distancing, new tactics will need to be implemented to prevent these tragedies. And as we anticipate that public health measures will remain in place through the summer, it’s important to remember that hot car deaths can be a four-season threat in some parts of the country.”

Summer Fireworks Can Be Disastrous for Dogs!

Dogs’ sensitive hearing and their flight reaction to startling noises can cause panic and distress for them. Shelters take in an increased number of runaway dogs when fireworks are set off in the community. If fireworks are being set off nearby, keep your dog at home with you, hunker down in a quiet space (perhaps a room with the air conditioner running), and surround yourselves with familiar objects and yummy foods. If you need to take your dog out, use a sturdy harness and strong leash, and be sure the name tag showing your contact information is up to date.

Non-steroidal anti-inflammatories

Rimadyl, Etogesic, etc. — can increase the risk of infection and delay wound healing!! —

A recent study found that non-steroidal anti-inflammatory drugs increased the risk of infection. According to the authors, this association — which is new to veterinary science — might be because non-steroidal anti-inflammatory drugs cause immunosuppression, making infection more likely. Read the complete report….

For in-depth information, including other warnings, see the page on Rimadyl and other NSAIDs.

What is a “Client Information Sheet”?

Anytime your veterinarian prescribes medication for your dog, the office should also give you a “Client Information Sheet” (CIS) that explains the purpose of the drug, its intended benefits, and its possible negative side effects. The CIS is different from the package insert and is an important ally to you in protecting your dog’s health. Be sure you obtain a CIS on any occasion that your veterinarian prescribes a drug for your dog. More info here.