It has come to my attention recently that there are countless numbers of older dogs in our shelters that have little or no hope of adoption. The “lucky ones” in no kill shelters will live out the remainder of their lives in a shelter. No matter how caring the shelter staff is it can not take the place of having the comfort of home and humans to care for them. Many spend their last days lonely and frightened. The majority of senior dogs residing in kill shelters are truly on death row.
How do so many seniors end up in this situation? It is not always because of carelessness or disregard of their human caregivers. Some animals have elderly owners who have passed away or have become too ill to care for them.
Yet others are literally discarded by their owners because they decided they didn’t have enough time for them, have children with allergies, or have a new spouse or boyfriend that dislikes the dog. In more recent times foreclosures and other serious financial problems are causing people to abandon their senior animals, many who now need daily medication or other care the owners perceive as too costly.
Now I didn’t write this article to bring everyone down! I want to let you know that there are wonderful dogs out there just waiting for you. Most of us think in terms of a puppy or young dog when we think of adoption. I just wanted my readers to stop and think for a moment on how wonderful it might be to bring a senior dog into your life.
The first benefit that comes to my mind when considering adoption of a senior dog is the fact that they are already house trained. Good news for you and your new carpeting! But I ran across this article by the Senior Dog Project. It is available as a downloadable pdf file entitled the Top 10 Reasons for Adopting a Senior Dog.
And just remember…one of the best ways to help a senior dog is to call your local kill shelter and ask them if they have any senior dogs available. Many shelters don’t even bother to put them up for adoption.
Have any of you adopted a senior dog? Please tell us your story.
Stump, a 10 year old Sussex Spaniel takes Westminster! Stump is the oldest dog ever to have earned the ‘Best in Show” title in Westminster’s 133 year history.
Stump, a 10 year old Sussex Spaniel took Westminster! In Westminster’s 133 year history, Stump is the oldest dog ever to have claimed the “Best in Show” title.
Stump’s story is one of the greatest come-back stories of all time! Stump retired from the show ring in 2004 at the age of five after having won “Best in Sporting Group” at Westminster.
Shortly after he was stricken with a mysteriuos illness. He began wasting away and his body systems began to fail. He was near death when he was finally arrived at the vetrinary hospital at Texas A&M. After 19 days, and near death, it was discovered that he had a rare bacterial infection.
During his long recovery, no thought was ever given to his returning to the show ring. Not only did Stump make a complete and total recovery, he showed a vitality and spirit that few dogs his age are capable of.
Five days before the show, expert handler, Scott Sommer thought that Stump might enjoy one last walk on the green carpet at the Garden. I for one, am truly greatful that Stump made his appearance!
You see, this morning I woke up to face yet another birthday. I must admit that I was feeling that my “Best in Show” days were suely all behind me. But then I though of Stump. I stretched my old bones and took my 11 year old Guinness for a walk. I think we both held our heads a little higher and walked a little more briskly today. May our “Best in Show” days are still ahead of us!
In celebration of pitchers and catchers reporting to Spring Training and in eager anticipation of the 2009 MLB Season , Brown Dog Treasures is giving away licensed MLB products for your dog!
Here is how the give away works:
Just purchase $25 or more of your favorite team merchandise and you will automatically receive a free gift of your choice. (While supplies last!)
If your part of the country is anything like it is here in NY, you have been experiencing record breaking cold weather. Even in southern Florida I found myself looking for a jacket on a recent visit. I thought this might be a good time to share my Top 10 Tips for caring for your dog during the rest of winter.
1. Never let your dog off leash in snow or ice, especially during a snow storm. While it might seem like a fun thing to do, keep in mind that dogs can loose their scent quite easily in the cold and snow. If they wander a bit too far, they may not be able to find their way back.
2. Make sure to thoroughly wash your dogs paws, legs and underbelly after coming in from the snow or sleet. Salt, de-icing chemicals and antifreeze is often mixed in with the snow and slush. Your dog may then lick his paws and become sickened or worse. Not to mention bringing those chemical into your home is not a good thing for you either!
3. Check your dog’s paw pads for ice balls. These can become embedded and are quite painful until they melt.
4. Never shave your dog down in winter! Infact I can never understand why people would shave thier dog in any weather!
5. Never let your dog out after a bath unless he is completely dry. I wait several hours before letting my dog out after a bath. I also try to avoid bathing at all on the coldest of days.
6. If you own a short-haired breed please consider getting him a coat or sweater. Many breeds are sensitive to the cold and winter outerwear is a must!
7. NEVER leave your dog alone in the car during winter. Although many people are aware of the dangers of dogs overheating in a locked vehicle during the summer months, they fail to realize that an unheated car quickly becomes a refrigerator in winter.
8. Please keep in mind that puppies and senior dogs are often more at risk than others dogs during the cold weather. Puppies, just like babies may be unable to regulate their body temperatures as well as a mature dog. Most senior dogs like senior humans suffer from osteoarthritis and the cold weather can really increase discomfort.
9. If you and your dog are very active in cold weather and enjoy outside activities make sure to increase your dog’s protein intake during the winter months. Extra protein intake is essential for keeping your dog’s coat thick and healthy, His best protection from the cold.
10. Make sure your dog has a warm place to sleep, off the cold floors and away from drafts. A cozy dog bed or soft blanket would be best.
In celebration of pitchers and catchers reporting to ![Reblog this post [with Zemanta]](http://img.zemanta.com/reblog_e.png?x-id=76496ab8-6b69-4a68-9fe0-9d1120ffdb39)
If your part of the country is anything like it is here in NY, you have been experiencing record breaking cold weather. Even in southern Florida I found myself looking for a jacket on a recent visit. I thought this might be a good time to share my Top 10 Tips for caring for your dog during the rest of winter.