Have you ever had a senior dog? They might move a lot slower than a puppy, but it's possible that's more your speed anyway. Senior dogs come with a lot of benefits, but unfortunately, they're often the last to get adopted at the shelter. And, the reason is obvious — many people want to have that puppy experience.
There are often a lot of false statements regarding older dogs. Many feel like they can't be trained. But many already come with a bunch of commands they already know by heart. They also know the true importance of a kind and loving home. Senior dogs just need a place to enjoy the last years of their lives. Many senior dogs at the shelter still have plenty of miles left.
Speaking of miles, that's exactly what one rescue did to promote its senior members. The rescue compared them to used cars: Pre-owned, but still an incredible value.
Vintage Pet Rescue, which is based in Rhode Island, got a lot of attention after posting its fun ad. "Senior Dog Blowout Sale!" the ad said. "Are you in the market for a new best friend? Everyone wants a new puppy but have you thought about a pre-owned senior dog? You haven't? Well, what can we do to get you matched up with a certified used dog today?" Chances are, you might not have ever used the term "certified used dog" before, but it's a great addition to your vernacular.
"We've got dogs with one eye! We’ve got dogs with no teeth!" the ad continued. "We've got blind dogs! We've got bald dogs! We've got dogs with skin issues! And we've got paralyzed dogs! Are our dogs slow moving? You bet they are! Do our dogs love to nap? It's their absolute favorite thing!"
The ad also got some laughs for being realistic. "Are our dogs healthy? Not really!" the ad noted. "Will our dogs provide love and affection for the remaining months/years of their lives? We guarantee it! So if you've been thinking about adopting a pre-owned senior dog, then you’re in the right place! These pre-owned pups might need more frequent tune-ups, but they will pay you back in love and stinky kisses."
Senior dogs often have big stories to tell. Some of them were placed in the shelter after their owner died. Others may have been abandoned when care became much more than their owner could afford. These dogs — along with most of the adoptable senior dogs you've seen at shelters — usually don't ask for much except for a warm home and a little bit of understanding.
Many of the senior dogs available are gentle. A lot likely have experience with cats and children. But they all have one thing in common: they got dealt a bad hand in life, and want nothing more but to live their final years in a peaceful and loving home.
Vintage Pet Rescue doesn't hide the health issues that its rescues have. In describing one elderly pit bull it rescued, the rescue had no issues saying, "We're estimating he’s between 11-13 and he's a hot mess." Even on the viral Facebook post, the rescue chose to showcase a couple of its pups and the problems they are currently facing.
"Dillon is a 14-year-old cocker spaniel," the post noted. "So mellow and sweet — loves to lounge on the couch and get belly rubs. Great with everyone. Does have skin issues that require medicated baths and possibly medication."
Another one read: "Coco is a 14-year-old terrier mix with a bald head and one eye. Perfect, right? Coco is a sweet boy who loves to eat, explore outside, and give kisses."
Without a doubt, it's obvious that Vintage Pet Rescue really loves the seniors that come through its doors.
Fans of Vintage Rescue also couldn't get enough of its honest, yet also quite endearing post. Many of them also own senior animals and know how they hold a special place in your heart.
"I LOVE this post!!" one follower wrote. "Seniors are the best! Nothing is more rewarding than adopting a pre-owned model! The love and appreciation they give in return is amazing. I wouldn't trade my pack of pre-owned senior 'kids' for anything!"
According to the HuffPost, the popular descriptions actually helped almost every dog on the list find a potential home. That is, all except for one. Right now the rescue is still trying to find a placement for Cheez-It, an elderly dog who "runs great!" and has a "clean interior." The only hold-up is that Cheez-It isn't kid-friendly.
Vintage Pet Rescue founder Kristen Peralta told the outlet that she's surprised the post went viral. She says she's very proud that it has led to more adoptions. "I just thought it would be a fun way to market these special, pre-loved dogs," she said.
She also said that all of those willing to adopt should live at within 100 miles of the shelter, which is in Foster, Rhode Island. While this ad might have reached people on the other side of the continent, these pups are hoping to stay somewhat local. "Our main goal is to show people that senior dogs make amazing pets and companions," she clarified.
Senior pets are a good fit for many households. If you want a dog but don't have time to train one, then a senior dog may be a great option. Even if your senior dog may require medicine, you're still saving money on puppy pads and training school. It's a great way to save a life.
