This is an ideal time to consider rescuing and adopting older dogs and providing them with forever homes, offering unconditional love and safety.
“Adopting a senior dog is like finding a hidden treasure — a gem with a lifetime of love and stories waiting to be shared.” (prettyfluffy.com)
“The beauty of adopting a senior dog lies in the joy of providing a warm haven for a wise soul, whose love knows no bounds.” (prettyfluffy.com)
Promoting Awareness of How to Enrich Your Adopted Senior Pet’s Life
Consider activities that both you and your senior canine companion can engage in, sometimes referred to as creating a “bucket list” (drawing from multiple references):
Routinely take photos of your senior pet, preserving them. Create “action” videos, including your pet, you, and other family members. Consider the possibility of having an artist paint your dog or doing a professional photo op, placing what can only be defined as masterpieces on your wall.
Have a “looking good!!!!” activity, a special grooming and spa day. Consider having your senior pet bathed, groomed, nails trimmed, massaged, being gifted with a bowtie or ribbon. Capture your dog’s beauty with a photo!
Engage in an art project, creating a precious memento. Consider purchasing a ceramic paw print kit, enjoy the pleasure of working on it.
Provide opportunities for your senior dog to go on rides – in your vehicle, in a cart or wagon, and more – to favorite places as well as new locations.
Throw a party for your older dog – consider who to invite (e.g., other dogs – young and old) or just make a special time for him/her and immediate family.
One basic daily adventure – that will benefit your beloved pet and you – is to go for a walk. Transform your daily walk into an especially entertaining, “sensory” experience for both of you (e.g., scatter treats here and there, rustle through autumn leaves).
Consider the option of placing a camera on your senior pet’s collar or harness, if he/she feels comfortable with it, and see the “going for a walk” world from your pet’s eyes.
What Else to Consider During November
Consider what you might donate to the Ashland County Dog Shelter or NO PAWZ LEFT BEHIND to benefit senior dogs – with and without disabilities — during November, and to “gift” those who adopt older dogs!
Diana Spore
Ashland, Ohio
Dr. Diana Spore is not affiliated with the Ashland County Dog Shelter or NO PAWZ LEFT BEHIND, and is not being paid to write this piece. She is a dog lover, advocate, and older adult.