Older pets are generally house trained, well-behaved, less high-strung, able to form deeper attachments to their owners, and less likely to chew up your favorite pair of boots or the new furniture.

 

If you rescue an older pet, you will know by looking at her how big she will get, b/c she is basically finished growing -- no shocking surprises!

 

The shelters are filled with pure breed dogs; however, if you prefer a mixed breed, often, the overall health of mixed-breeds can be stronger and more hardy.

 

Older rescues (five years and older) have little to no chance of being rescued.  (This alone, is reason to consider adopting an older pet.  Most likely, you are saving the animal's life.)

 

I have adopted two of my labs at the age of 10.  Rowdy lived to the ripe old age of 15, and Remy (shown below) enjoyed an active life until the age of 14.

 

The shelters are filled with ideal pets for your unique family situation. Research the breeds and know their basic breed-specific needs as well as age-related needs before choosing your pet.

 

Children (as well as adults!) can learn so much by taking in a pet who needs special care. Learn what is involved, be realistic about what your family has time (and in some cases, money) for.  Don't be "scared away" by special-needs pets.  Some of my sweetest, most gentle animals have had special needs.

 

Most of the dogs in the shelters are sweet, young (2 to 4 year old) oversized, over-exuberant pups who got too big too quickly for their too busy owners.  With minimal training, the majority of these dogs can prove a perfect fit for your family.

 

Oh -- and if you are adopting a cat . . .consider a black one.  Unfortunately, due to superstition, some people are uncomfortable around black cats.  As a result, the shelters are inundated with them. This is unfortunate.