Old dogs make the best new friends!

And if you like the man that I describe below?  Fear not ladies, he is single and available for adoption through Tri State Collie Rescue!  Let them know you are interested in Blue or check out any of their other available seniors at: http://www.tristatecollierescue.org/adoptables.html

As I write this article, he is stretched out on the couch next to me with his head on my lap.   I wistfully look down at him and our eyes meet.  There is no relationship that is as solid as ours and no eyes that capture my heart like his do.  He is the man that every woman dreams of!  He loves long walks at leisure, doesn't mind watching chick-flicks, and never complains about my cooking.  In fact, he just about sounds too good to be true, but he's not.  And the good news is that there are thousands more where he comes from.  For a man this perfect look no further than your local shelter or rescue.  

You aren't going to find this type of guy in the puppy room though.  This is a type of love and calm devotion that only a senior dog can bring you.  Sadly many people over look these wonderful gems though when searching for their perfect companion, and what a misfortune that is.  Senior dogs make great companions for a number of reasons.

1)  Senior dogs are calmer and less energetic than younger dogs.  They don't require the constant attention and redirection that puppies and younger dogs demand.  In fact they are often just content being in your presence doing whatever it is that you're doing.

2)  They usually come with some amount of basic training such as house training skills and simple obedience commands.  And if they don't?  Never mind that old adage:  You can't teach an old dog new tricks.  In fact seniors are easier to train that younger dogs because their attention span, focus, and impulse control is greater than that of a puppy.  

3)  Older dogs often settle into a household quicker than a puppy because they already know how to get along in a family unit and relish the comfort of routine.

4)  From the first moment you spend with a senior dog you will have a fairly good idea of what type of companion you are getting .  He won't get any larger than he is at your initial meeting and his developed temperament will give you an immediate glimpse as to how he will fit into you household.

5)  Many fear adopting an older dog because they don't want their relationship to end before they are ready. If this is the case, consider opening your home to an adult dog and a senior dog.  Then you will never be completely without a "best friend".  

6)  At shelters and rescues, older dogs are most often the last to be adopted and the first to be euthanized.  So remember, by adopting a senior dog, you aren't just gaining a friend.  You're saving a life!

So please consider adopting a senior dog the next time you adopt, and spread the word about these wonderful treasures.  Remember that adopting a senior dog will be a wonderful adventure for you and your new companion.  Simply because, old dogs really do make the best new friends!