NOVEMBER IS ADOPT A SENIOR PET MONTH

Puppies, kittens and other young animals are cute. They require a lot of time commitment, patience and energy from their owners. Many people have busy work and home schedules that keep them from providing the care necessary for proper training.

Although older animals can be less demanding than a younger pet, they still require quality time in the form of love/attention, feeding, exercise/play and veterinary care. Adult animals have often been socialized to live in a home and many are house broken or litter trained.

Adult animals are often more practical for families with children. Puppies and kittens sometimes nip and claw which can be frightening to children who can be rough with young animals. A mature pet that interacts well with children can be the best option for all those involved.

Older pets become available for many reasons including; animals become too big for apartment living, previous owner moved out of town or into a home that does not allow animals, the owner enters a nursing home or dies. The family suffers relationship changes or a new partner does not like the pet. In addition, of course do not forget the stray and homeless animals that are at the shelter.

Older animals have different nutritional needs and your veterinarian should be consulted about any dietary questions.

The Mesquite Animal Shelter has a wide variety of dogs, puppies, cats, kittens and even an occasional ferret, rat or parakeet. The animals come in many breeds, colors, ages and socialization levels.

You might just find a pet of a lifetime right here in Mesquite.

Keep your senior pet in tip-top shape

• Regular, moderate activity and daily playtime will help your senior pet stay healthy and avoid obesity which can put extra stress on your pet’s heart and on arthritic joints.
• Even the most energetic dogs slow down as they become older. Many elderly dogs try to keep up with their owner while running or walking and don’t know to rest when they’ve reached their limit. Keep an eye for signs that your dog appears tired and reluctant to continue exercising, and take that as an indicator to scale back your dog’s exercise regime. Talk with your vet about an appropriate frequency, length of time, and type of exercise for your senior dog.
• Massage can help reduce your senior pet’s potential for arthritis and relief from muscular stiffness and discomfort. Plus, massage will help relax and calm your pet.
• Older cats are usually less adaptable to change, so you can reduce stress by maintaining normalcy in your household. If your cat has to be boarded while you are on vacation, keep her with a familiar blanket that already has her scent on it – or, better yet, have a pet sitter come to your home. Stress can be alleviated by giving more affection and attention during times of emotional upheaval.

Help your senior pet stay sharp

• Contrary to popular belief, an old dog – or old cat – can be taught new tricks. Animals of any age enjoy learning, and stimulating your older pet’s mind is a great way to make sure your pet is healthy and happy.
• Peak activity for cats occurs in the early morning and in the evening. Your senior cat might be more apt to play at those times and it’s a perfect opportunity to get her moving. Try using a wand or fishing pole-style toy to get her to chase. Rolling ping pong balls across a wood or tile floor will provide lots of interactive playtime, too.
• Although senior pets like familiarity, simple things such as rotating toys can bring some excitement into their lives.
• Take your senior dog on car rides and on walks in new locations so they can explore and take in the sights, sounds, and smells of different locations.

Senior pet wellness checks

• Keep in mind that every year for a dog or cat is equivalent to 5–7 human years. In order stay current with your senior pet’s health care; visit your veterinarian every six months for a complete exam and any necessary laboratory tests. These regular visits will enable your veterinarian to diagnose any age-related illnesses at the earliest stage possible and begin treatment.
• In between vet visits, make sure you pay attention to any changes in your pet’s behavior, activity level or physical appearance.

Featured dog- At this time there are no dogs available for adoption

Featured cat (s)

Samantha

13 months old Samantha is an independent cat that is looking for a home without a dog or cat as she has a very strong personality. This independent gal know what she wants – a loving home where she can be queen of the castle. Samantha enjoys getting attention but prefers when it’s on her terms. She will do best in a quiet home where she can be the star of the show. She will rub up on you affectionately. She will greet you at the door and tell you about her day and ask you about yours. She likes hanging out with you while you are doing your chores and she wants to know what you are doing.

Felix

Felix is approx. 1.5  years old and a handsome gray/white large tiger cat with personality plus (once he gets to know you). He is a very affectionate and sweet boy who loves being around his people. But, Felix is shy of new people at first so when you go visit him, sit patiently and let him come to you.  Once he knows you, he is your best friend.  He likes sitting on laps and being petted – he loves attention.  Felix is a talkative boy and has a lot to say, and he is rather mellow for such a young boy.

Other available cats

Samanths- Female orange tabby (orange cats are usually males) Friendly and easily handled

Bella- gray/white tabby. Loves attention and playing with toys

Nitelite- Shy girl. Friendly easily handled. Needs quiet home

Kittens- Check our Petfinder site for information on the kittens.