It鈥檚 common for older pets to get overlooked at shelters with kittens and puppies also hoping for their forever homes.

Cats and dogs are considered 鈥渟enior鈥� or 鈥渕ature鈥� at around the age of seven. Here are five reasons why senior animals make great pets

1. House and litter trained

They鈥檙e already house-trained and/or litter-trained. Puppies and kittens will require plenty of patience if you鈥檙e trying to get them not to go to the bathroom inside. The majority of older animals are not only house-trained, they may also know a few basic cues (and tricks) like 鈥渟it,鈥� 鈥渟tay,鈥� and more.

2. Personality on display

What you see is what you get. By this time in their lives, seniors tend to have fully developed personalities and temperaments. So, you鈥檒l know if you鈥檙e getting a charming cat or a senior pup with lots of life experiences.

3. Companionship and energy levels

Great companionship without the level of supervision younger pets require. A younger animal may require leash training (for cats, some will be okay with walking on a leash and harness) before you can take them outside.

Typically, senior animals are already leash-trained and can explore the world with good manners in tow. Senior pets have also grown out of their more energetic phase, which means a lower likelihood of destructive behaviour.

4. Animal instincts remain

They鈥檒l be so happy to hang out and/or play with you. Whether that鈥檚 going on a walk, a few rounds of fetch, or pawing at a feather toy, senior animals still find ways to keep themselves (and you) engaged. Dogs still need exercise, so daily walks are important. The natural hunter instinct within a cat remains with them for the majority of their lives, so providing enrichment with a cardboard box or furry toy will prove entertaining for hours on end.

5. They know how to be great companions

They still have plenty of life and love to give. Many of the older animals in shelters have gone through some hard times: their guardian may have passed away, there may have been allergy issues in the home, a loss of a job, or other kinds of lifestyle changes.

At one point, these animals were cared for and loved by someone else; they know what love, loyalty and companionship are all about. Spending their golden years in a loving home will not only prove enriching for them, but for you, too.

So if you are thinking about getting a pet, consider opening your heart and home to a senior animal. Puppies and kittens are cute, but adopting a senior animal can be a life-changing experience for you and that pet. Be a hero to a senior animal who is hoping for a home today. Visit spca.be.ca to see what鈥檚 available.