Then think about adopting an older dog from rescue
Older dogs are usually already toilet trained (though you may need to excuse them the odd accident at first as you get to know when they need to go out). They’re not going to spend their time chewing stuff or mouthing your hands as a puppy or younger dog may well do.
Many older dogs are still very happy to go for a decent length walk and come with you on adventures, but will also be happy to chill out at home – snuggling up on the sofa to watch TV with you, or laying in front of the fire on a cold winter’s evening.
These days it is often possible to arrange pet insurance for an older dog too. I’ve managed to insure dogs aged 12+. Existing conditions won’t be covered of course, but cover for other things should be.
There are SO many older dogs in rescues around the world, who are desperately waiting for someone like YOU to give them a new home. Please don’t make them wait until it’s too late.
Rescue centres do an excellent job of looking after the dogs and other animals in their care, but they can’t provide the home environment that each dog really needs.
Please visit Oldies Club; please visit DogsBlog; please contact a breed rescue, or your local rescue centre. While I have your attention, have you seen Old Jack?
Jasper (below) is one of the lucky ones – he was saved from being put down and will be snuggled up in front of the fire this winter – but thousands of other dogs will be spending their winter in kennels
If you’re worried about how you’ll be able to bond with an older dog, who has spent much of their life elsewhere … don’t be
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