Why Senior Pets are the Perfect Companions

Sammy, the author's 12-year-old senior dog adopted from Flathead County Animal Shelter.

Welcome to Pet Talk, an occasional column about homeless pets and related topics. This month we’re discussing senior pet adoption. For example, who wouldn’t want to rescue this cute gray-haired boy? Sorry, but Sammy’s already taken! In fact, he’s my second rescue from Flathead County Animal Shelter over the years. Both grew to ripe old ages and, although Sammy’s now 12, he can out-hike me any day of the week. Why, I’d sooner give up my right arm than surrender him to a shelter—which happens all too often with senior pets in the U.S.

Why does that happen? Well, some folks simply don’t have the necessary dedication to go through both good times and bad with their endlessly loyal pets. Some people give up on older pets because of illness and associated veterinary costs, some surrender pets (of any age) when moving to a new home or apartment, and some simply dump pets they no longer want in the woods or along dangerous roads. Which leaves it up to good Samaritans and rescue organizations to deal with the consequences. (That’s exactly what happened to my 2 pups—cruel, heartless abandonment!)

So, what can local pet lovers do to help alleviate the problem? Adopt! Below are some of the senior pets currently available at Flathead County Animal Shelter, some for many months now.

Larry and Luna, a bonded pair, looking for a forever home together.

First up is adorable bonded pair, Larry and Luna, recently surrendered but who’ve lived together for the past 10 years or so. So cute, and the fact that Luna has only 3 legs (a “tripod”) doesn’t stop her one bit when playing fetch with her pal Larry. In fact, I’m sure they know how adorable they are when showering shelter volunteers with hugs and kisses!

Here's more from our Facebook page: Meet Larry and Lana - Sweet is an understatement when describing this bonded pair's personalities. These love-bugs will completely steal your heart. 10 yr old Larry and Lana have spent their entire lives side by side and are dreaming of their forever home where they can continue their love story together. They are both sweet and gentle, adore playing fetch, and being loved on. Together, they're the ultimate dream team of companionship and loyalty. They would delight in nothing more than a loving home where they can enjoy their golden years together. If you've got space in your heart and home for two devoted best friends, Larry and Lana are ready to fill your life with love, tail wags, and a whole lot of adorable!

Chiko and Buddha, a bonded pair featured in a previous Pet Talk, were adopted together.

Speaking of adorable bonded seniors, perhaps you recall Chiko and Buddha, featured in a previous Pet Talk. Well, they were recently adopted together, so Big Yay there!

Of course, we mustn’t forget our local senior cats. For example, here’s 15-year-old Skeeter McBones (below left).

And here’s Chester (below right), who’s nearly 13 but also plenty spunky!

And Karina (below center), who’s a mellow 9-year-old.

All of these senior pets are still vivacious, with tons of love to offer local families. So, won’t you help by adopting and spreading the word that these senior pets need to find forever homes? If you know pets, you surely know that even oldsters can pay you back many times over for your loving generosity!

To schedule a meet-and-greet, please phone Flathead County Animal Shelter at (406) 752-1310. And, to all past and future supporters, Thank You!

Well, that’s about it for today’s Pet Talk. As you can see, pet homelessness is a serious issue, both locally and nationally. So please support animal shelters in any way that you can. And don’t forget the generous adoption incentives at Flathead County Animal Shelter. First, a gracious donation from a local animal lover has allowed the shelter to substantially reduce its adoption fees.

Flathead Shelter Friends also offers a Senior Pet Voucher, which pays up to $350 toward veterinary care for 7+ year-old adopted pets.

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So if you’re seeking one or more loving companions please schedule a meet-and-greet by phoning Flathead County Animal Shelter at (406) 752-1310.

And did you know about the low adoption fees and other incentives at Flathead County Animal Shelter? For example, Flathead Shelter Friends offers a Senior Pet Voucher, which pays up to $350 toward veterinary care for 7+ year-old adopted pets. For more information please contact Flathead County Animal Shelter at 406-752-1310 or visit https://flatheadcounty.gov/department-directory/animal.

Pet Talk is produced by Flathead Shelter Friends Inc., an all-volunteer 501(c)(3) nonprofit. For more information visit www.flatheadshelterfriends.org.

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