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When you walk into an animal shelter or look through online adoption listings, it’s easy to feel drawn to the sweet-faced puppies and kittens. But for every adorable puppy or kitty, there are countless pets who get overlooked. 

Usually, these are older animals, pets with medical conditions, or those who look a little different. If you’re looking for love, loyalty, and gratitude, it might be the perfect time to adopt a less adoptable pet.

These so-called “imperfect” pets often wait months—or even years—for a forever home. And yet, they have just as much love to give (if not more) than their younger shelter mates. 

Here’s what the team at South Seminole Animal Hospital wants you to know about adopting the less fortunate pets.

Senior Pet Adoption Pros and Cons

There’s something incredibly rewarding about giving an older animal a soft place to land. Among the senior pet adoption pros and cons, one big pro is personality—you know exactly what (well, who) you’re getting. 

Older pets are usually house-trained, calmer, and far less likely to chew your shoes than their puppy or kitten counterparts.

Of course, older pets can come with a few health concerns. They might need more frequent vet visits or daily medications. 

But for many people who adopt them, the joy of giving a senior pet a peaceful retirement is far greater than the extra care they may need. 

Adopting Special Needs Dogs and Cats

Special needs dogs and cats may be deaf, blind, have mobility issues, or need ongoing medical care. While they may take a bit of learning and work to care for, bringing these pets home can be a highly rewarding experience. 

These dogs and cats often form deep, trusting bonds with their people and adapt wonderfully to a new life, as long as they have the support they need.

As you learn to care for your special needs pet, you’ll deepen your understanding of the world, too. Deaf dogs can learn hand signals, for example—this hand signals resource from an Ohio animal shelter is an excellent starting point.

Dogs and cats do so much for humans, so it’s wonderful when we can give back by providing them with a safe, secure, and accessible home. 

Perfectly Imperfect

The next time you’re considering adoption, don’t just walk past the senior cat, the shy dog, or the young pup with a limp. 

That so-called imperfect pet might just be your perfect match.

The caring team at South Seminole Animal Hospital can help you and your new furry family member adjust to life together. Call us today at (407) 831-5205 to set up a wellness care appointment for your sweet, perfect-to-us pet.