For those of you that have rescued a senior dog, have you ever worried about not having enough time with them once their gone? I'm thinking about adopting a disabled senior dog, but fear that because they're getting old, I'm not going to have them for very long and would regret not being able to spend more time with them.
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It is hard, but think of it from the dog's standpoint. They would far rather have a few happy years in a good home. I think it's an amazing thing to rescue an older dog. Yes it may be harder on us, but it's worth it to make the end of their life happy and loved. One of my best friends rescued an elderly GSD who would never have found a home if she hadn't. It's been hard on her but she doesn't regret it even a little bit.
I adopted a senior German Shepherd last year. Lost her to GDV three months later. Gorgeous dog, very friendly. Still up for romping in the field and long walks. I was heartbroken when she died. I adopted a two year old half a year later. While I don't think I will never adopt a senior again, it was still quite a shock too loose her so quickly.
Not only that, vet costs were through the roof with her. I probably spent more on her ($8000 in three months) then I have spent on my other dog in 10 years. Of course, this also depends on the breed and condition of the dog you get. My GSD was a puppy mill dog before we got her, so her genetics were fairly poor. She had hip dysplasia, broken bone injuries that healed poorly, very poor teeth, and also chronic eye infections.
Just something to consider... I know it is different with every dog, just keep it in mind. Old dogs always seem very thankful when they get adopted, and most are much better with young children then some other young dogs. Many old dogs don't find a home, so those that do are very lucky. Possibly after my current senior passes, I might consider another older dog.
Not only that, vet costs were through the roof with her. I probably spent more on her ($8000 in three months) then I have spent on my other dog in 10 years. Of course, this also depends on the breed and condition of the dog you get. My GSD was a puppy mill dog before we got her, so her genetics were fairly poor. She had hip dysplasia, broken bone injuries that healed poorly, very poor teeth, and also chronic eye infections.
Just something to consider... I know it is different with every dog, just keep it in mind. Old dogs always seem very thankful when they get adopted, and most are much better with young children then some other young dogs. Many old dogs don't find a home, so those that do are very lucky. Possibly after my current senior passes, I might consider another older dog.
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I adopted my "heart" dog, Miles, two years ago when he was approximately eight years old. Right now, he's by my side waiting expectantly for me to take him on a walk. I'll never regret having adopted him. He's really the most delightful companion that I could have ever found. Since he's a smaller dog, I expect that he'll be with me for a few more years.
When I contacted the shelter to inquire about him, I found that he was slated to be euthanized at 7 p.m. as he had been at the shelter for three weeks with no interest. What an absolute shame that would have been.
If and when I choose another dog to adopt, I'll definitely look for another middle-aged or older dog.
When I contacted the shelter to inquire about him, I found that he was slated to be euthanized at 7 p.m. as he had been at the shelter for three weeks with no interest. What an absolute shame that would have been.
If and when I choose another dog to adopt, I'll definitely look for another middle-aged or older dog.
Thanks guys! I want an older dog because I'm really not up for one + hours running my dog. 15 minute walks or fetch in the backyard is enough for me. Plus, my other small senior dog just sleeps all the time and having a young dog will bother him a lot. 2 extremely calm dogs would be amazing haha
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