Rehoming a Senior Dog or Cat

While many people envision adopting a playful puppy or a lively kitten, there’s a special joy that comes with choosing a senior pet.

Mature Personalities

One of the most significant advantages of adopting a senior pet is that their personalities are already well-developed. Unlike puppies or kittens who are still discovering their traits, older dogs and cats often have established temperaments. With cats in particular, it can help to understand how old your cat is in human years, as their life stage shapes the kind of care they need.

This can make it easier for you to find a pet whose personality aligns with your lifestyle and preferences.

Whether you’re looking for a calm and laid-back companion or an energetic and playful dog or cat, senior pets come with the advantage of predictability.

Skip the Puppy and Kitten Challenges

Raising a puppy or kitten is undoubtedly a rewarding experience, but it also comes with its fair share of challenges. The constant need for supervision, house training, and dealing with teething can be demanding for new pet owners.

Senior pets, on the other hand, have often outgrown these stages, making the transition into your home smoother and less stressful.

This may not be strictly true of lockdown pets though. Make sure you ask about the dog or cat’s social behaviour before rehoming so that you’re fully in the picture of the pet’s needs.

Training Can Still Be Fun

Contrary to popular belief, older dogs and cats can still learn new tricks. While they may not be as malleable as younger animals, the idea that you can’t teach an old dog new tricks is a myth.

Older rescues often just need a little patient retraining, and our guide on how to train a rescue dog is a good place to start.

Many senior pets are eager to please and can be responsive to training, providing an opportunity for a rewarding bonding experience between you and your new companion.

Senior dogs commonly develop joint stiffness, reduced mobility, and conditions such as arthritis that require ongoing management. Weight control, appropriate exercise, and joint supplements are 3 key strategies that help older dogs stay comfortable and active.

Our guide to dog joint care and mobility covers practical steps for supporting your senior dog’s musculoskeletal health.

Senior dogs retain their ability to learn throughout their lives, and training sessions provide valuable mental stimulation that keeps cognitive function sharp. Positive reinforcement techniques work particularly well with older dogs who have established attention spans.

Our article on whether you can teach an old dog new tricks explores how older dogs learn and respond to new commands.

Preventative Healthcare

Senior pets can be an excellent choice for individuals or families who may not have the time or energy to keep up with the demands of a younger pet. Additionally, many older animals have already been spayed or neutered and may have received vaccinations, saving you time and money on these essential veterinary services. If you are adopting an older dog, it helps to work out your dog’s age in human years so you know what stage of life they are entering.

Older Pet Insurance

While senior pets may cost more to insure and have specific health needs and chronic issues (that pet insurance companies may deem as pre-existing conditions), the love and companionship they offer can be incredibly beneficial for your own well-being.

Finding the right level of dog insurance for a senior rescue is one of the most important steps new owners can take.

Older dogs are more likely to develop conditions such as arthritis, diabetes, and kidney disease, and veterinary treatment for these ongoing issues – including blood tests, medication, and specialist consultations – adds up over time. A lifetime policy taken out when you first adopt gives your senior dog continuous cover, so age-related conditions that develop after the policy starts remain protected year after year.

Premiums for senior rescues tend to be higher than for younger dogs, but the gap is often smaller than owners expect.

Knowing the typical price range before you commit helps you budget from day one. Our guide to how much pet insurance costs breaks down average monthly premiums by age and breed, including what to expect for older dogs joining a policy for the first time.

Save a Life

Sadly, senior pets often face a higher risk of euthanasia in shelters simply because of their age. By choosing to adopt a senior dog or cat, you’re giving a loving home to an animal that might otherwise be overlooked.

The gratitude and loyalty of a senior pet who knows they’ve been given a second chance at happiness are immeasurable.

Ready to Adopt?

Adopting a senior pet is a decision that not only transforms the life of your new furry family member but also enriches your own. The deep connection formed with an older dog or cat is a testament to the timeless bond between humans and animals.

So, the next time you consider bringing a new pet into your home, remember the joy that comes with adopting a senior pet.

Common Questions About Rehoming Older Pets

Is it a good idea to adopt a senior dog?

Senior dogs can make wonderful companions. Their personalities are already established, so you know exactly what you are getting.

They tend to be calmer, often already housetrained, and are usually happy with a more relaxed routine. For families, couples, or older owners, a senior dog can be a great fit.

How do I help a rehomed older dog settle in?

Give them a quiet space of their own, stick to a consistent routine, and let them come to you in their own time. Avoid overwhelming them with visitors or new experiences in the first few days.

Patience is key – most senior dogs settle well once they feel safe and understand the household rhythm.

Can you get pet insurance for an older rescue dog?

Yes. Many insurers cover older dogs, though premiums may be higher and some pre-existing conditions may be excluded.

A lifetime policy continues to cover ongoing conditions year after year, subject to the policy terms, which some owners of senior pets may find suitable. It is worth arranging cover as soon as possible after adoption.

What age is considered senior for a dog or cat?

For most dogs, senior age starts at around seven to eight years old, though larger breeds may be considered senior earlier. Cats are generally classed as senior from around 11 years.

The exact age can vary by breed and overall health, but rescue centres typically label pets as senior from seven onwards.

Whether you choose a senior pet or a younger dog, preparation makes the transition smoother for everyone. Our comprehensive guide to adopting a dog covers everything from choosing the right breed to helping your new companion settle into their forever home.

Older pets can still be insured for the first time, with no upper age limit on new policies. Get a Perfect Pet quote to see the options.