Senior Dog Adopted After 1,134 Days In A Shelter

• Thomas Nelson
• December 22, 2020
• Animals
• 0 Comments

We live in a world where big things are always happening. New scientific achievements and major political events might outweigh stories like this one. But I think it’s worth reporting on anyway. So what’s the big scoop? Capone, a 10-year-old lab mix, is headed to his new forever home after 1,134 days spent in an animal shelter.

On December 11th, the Facebook page Animal Friends posted a photo of Capone and his new family with a heartwarming caption.

“They say good things come to those who wait … and that couldn’t be more true for our sweet Capone who FINALLY found his new family yesterday,” they wrote on Facebook. “Capone, our longest-term resident, has been with us since November 2017. And, we couldn’t be more thrilled to announce that yesterday, his foster family made it official and adopted this handsome boy!”

The best part about stories like Capone’s isn’t just that he’s finally headed to his forever home, but it shows the world that senior pets are actually quite lovable, trainable, and make good companions for our families.

Sadly, senior pets are often the last to be adopted from animal shelters. This puts them at a much higher risk of being euthanized than younger animals. Puppies and kittens typically are adopted quickly, but senior pets have a longer wait time.

Read: Meet Milkshake, One Of Only 100 Rare Pink Pugs

Why adopt a senior dog?

Senior pets are often overlooked because people have some fundamental misunderstandings about them. While puppies and kittens are cute, senior pets have some advantages. Here are some fast facts about senior pets and why you should adopt a senior dog.

1. A pet is generally considered ‘senior’ once they reach the age of 7.
2. Senior pets are often the last to be adopted from animal shelters.
3. A senior dog can still learn new tricks tricks, despite the popular saying. They never really stop learning.
4. Senior pets are usually well vetted by the animal shelter that houses them. They won’t generally surprise you by withholding information. They don’t want you to return your new companion!
5. Senior dogs and cats are usually housebroken. If they aren’t, the shelter will inform you before adoption.
6. Senior pets are usually a bit more calm than younger pets, making them ideal companions for more relaxed households.

The best reason to adopt a senior dog or cat, though? Because they deserve a home too! Many of these pets have been through several living situations already with humans they’ve been bonded to. It’s a hard life for a senior pet. By adopting a senior dog like Capone, you ensure that their later years are filled with love and comfort.

Ready to adopt? Use the ASPCA’s find a shelter tool to find an animal shelter near you.

Read next: If you want a vegan pet, get a rabbit.