adopting senior dogs

Griffen was probably abandonded to getting "too" old and also as a result, wasn't adopted because of his age. People often overlook older dogs, afraid that they may have too many problems and aren't going to be cute.

But there are so many benefits to adopting an older dog! Here are the Top 10 Reasons for adopting a senior dog according to the Senior Dogs Project:

1. Older dogs are housetrained. You won't have to go through the difficult stage(s) of teaching a puppy house manners and mopping/cleaning up after accidents.

2. Older dogs are not teething puppies, and won't chew your shoes and furniture while growing up.

3. Older dogs can focus well because they've mellowed. Therefore, they learn quickly.

4. Older dogs have learned what "no" means. If they hadn't learned it, they wouldn't have gotten to be "older" dogs.

5. Older dogs settle in easily, because they've learned what it takes to get along with others and become part of a pack.

6. Older dogs are good at giving love, once they get into their new, loving home. They are grateful for the second chance they've been given.

7. What You See Is What You Get: Unlike puppies, older dogs have grown into their shape and personality. Puppies can grow up to be quite different from what they seemed at first.

8. Older dogs are instant companions -- ready for hiking, car trips, and other things you like to do.

9. Older dogs leave you time for yourself, because they don't make the kinds of demands on your time and attention that puppies and young dogs do.

10. Older dogs let you get a good night's sleep because they're accustomed to human schedules and don't generally need nighttime feedings, comforting, or bathroom breaks.

Griffen was all of these things and more. He never acted his 10 years of age and got along with everyone. He was so good natured and sweet that even non-dog lovers developed a soft spot for him. Even though he didn't live much longer after I adopted him, he gave me a wonderful 7 months. He was a devoted companion and shared his love with everyone.

So the next time you want to adopt, please consider an older, senior dog.