How old is too old to adopt a pet?

“Such short little lives our pets have to spend with us, and they spend most of it waiting for us to come home each day. It is amazing how much love and laughter they bring into our lives and even how much closer we become with each other because of them.” – John Grogan, Marley and Me: Life and Love with the World’s Worst Dog

The companionship and affection pets show for their owners is undeniable. And as John Grogan notes above from his popular book turned Hollywood production, Marley and Me, pets offer even more benefits outside of our relationship with them. 

But the benefits don’t stop there. Bringing a new pet into your life as you’re getting older offers: 

• Reduced stress
• Introduces new interests and friends 
• Keeps you active
• Brings purpose and structure to your daily life
• Provides you a routine

So how old is too old to adopt a pet? As veterinarian Dr. Marty Becker puts it, “I would rather see guidelines than rules, and that’s because in my more than 30 years of practicing veterinary medicine, I have seen so many people who cared so much for their pets that they’d do anything for them.”

With so many pets needing new homes, and if you care for the pet, there is no doubt you will find a way to make sure they’re taken care of. 

Get the right pet for you

With an abundance of pets needing homes, choosing the right pet for you and your lifestyle will set everyone up for success. Shelters can help with this. If you call a local shelter, they’ll help you choose the right pet. They’ll ask questions like: 

• What size 
• Age-range 
• How active you plan to be
• What your lifestyle is like
• If other pets or grandchildren will be visiting

You could also mention you want a pet that is social if you plan to take your pet to visit your friends. Shelters and rescues are filled with very passionate people. They’ll go the extra mile to make sure everyone is happy. 

Seniors helping seniors

Depending on where you are with patience, activity, energy, etc., a senior pet may make the most sense for you. Some shelters even offer a discount for seniors to take on senior pets. Looked at as win-win, senior pets are already house trained and are just as loving as when they were younger.  

You’re also not succumbed to a personality you weren’t expecting. Adult pets are already developed leaving you with a clear picture of who you’ll be taking home. Plus, a lot of people want a puppy or a kitten. By taking home a senior pet, you’ll certainly be saving a life. 

Pet insurance brings peace of mind

Once deciding on the right pet for you, pet insurance is a great way to alleviate all stress in case something comes up. As with health insurance for humans, different plans will provide different levels of coverage for different types of care for pets. 

Generally, pet insurance plans will start by covering most illnesses and accidents. The coverage will be there for those unexpected vet visits that can cost a lot of money. The Direct Benefits Marketplace allows you to browse options and see if they match your expectations. Good luck with your new best friend!



Sources: 

http://www.vetstreet.com/dr-marty-becker/how-old-is-too-old-to-adopt-a-pet

https://www.aspca.org/animal-homelessness/shelter-intake-and-surrender/pet-statistics