In PAWS, we see every kind of dog find themselves in rescue usually through no fault of their own. All breeds, from all backgrounds and of all ages.
Many people don’t find the idea of adopting a senior dog from a rescue who is in their twilight years as appealing as a younger dog. However, adopting an older dog comes with a huge amount of benefits. Adopting an older dog means you are rescuing a dog who tends to have a great deal of life experience already. Their character is fully developed and they are not going to go through puppy or adolescent growth stages. This means a lot less work and time for you to get them socialised correctly and building positive associations with the world as it would be if they were under 3 years old.
Unlike a younger counterpart, where it can be all guesswork, you know what coat type, size and what you are getting adopting a senior rescue dog. They are also ideal for first time dog owners or for those who are hoping for a more calm or quiet dog addition to their lifestyle rather than a rambunctious puppy.
You are already doing a wonderful thing choosing to rescue a dog over buying from a breeder. Many older dogs find themselves in rescue through circumstances of bad luck like owners no longer able to care for them or even outliving their owner after years of being a loyal friend to someone. They then find themselves confused and homeless in rescue. Giving these dogs a second chance is an amazing thing to do and one you will no doubt regret.
OUR Ted is a great example of one of these kinds of senior dogs. Ted was surrendered into us recently as his owners couldn’t keep him anymore, its always hard for any older dog to come into rescue but Ted has taken it all in his stride.
Still full of energy & fun, Ted is a happy, affectionate chap. Confident and outgoing, Ted gets on okay with other dogs, we think he would be best in a home on his own or with a female. Ted walks well, if a little strong, on the lead, he is looking for a moderately active family who have knowledge / experience of the patterdale breed.
If you would like to find out more about Ted or any other of our senior adoptees,p please get in touch.
