For many adopters the best match is an older pet.

Rarely do KAR’s kittens or puppies have difficulty getting adopted—most adopters have their hearts set on a young pet that they can mold and watch grow up. Although this is good news for our younger residents, unfortunately it means that many deserving shelter animals are continually overlooked simply because of their age and size. People often forget that kittens and puppies don’t stay little for long, and within a year will have grown to full adult size.

For many adopters the best match is an older pet, whose behavior is settled and predictable. Whereas kittens and puppies require extra supervision, senior pets have outgrown the mischievous stage and usually make few demands on their human companions. Since older animals were probably once owned, they are familiar with family life and especially grateful for a second chance to belong to a special someone.

An older cat or dog might make an ideal companion for a retiree whose own life moves at a more relaxed pace or for a busy young family with other commitments. A senior pet would also be a compatible match for a workaholic who’s away from home every day and who doesn’t have time to train and monitor a younger pet. Older pets also have a calming influence on their human companions. After a tension-filled day at work, what is more satisfying than coming home to a laid-back dog or cat whose smooches, wagging tail, purrs, and head butts tell you that you are the greatest person in the world?

We hope you’ll consider adopting one of KAR’s many wonderful senior citizens. They are waiting to meet you and show you how great a “golden oldie” can be.