November is often associated with autumn – the leaves turning, the weather cooling off, and Thanksgiving. But November signifies something equally important. That’s right; November is National Senior Pet Awareness Month.

What is Senior Pet Month?

Adopting a pet is a selfless, special time when one dedicates their life to adding a loving new member to their family. However, most people envision a puppy or kitten rather than a senior pet. Even pets a few years old are often disregarded in a world that is always chasing the brand new.

Senior Pet Month is a specially dedicated month that brings awareness that senior pets are not only worthwhile but excellent candidates for adoption. This month-long holiday was founded by ASPCA (The American Society for the Prevention of Cruelty To Animals) and petfinder.com to promote and place senior pets into permanent, loving homes.

Why Seniors are Commonly Overlooked

There is a common misconception that senior pets are in a shelter because of a bad temperament or unsuitability for family environments. The truth is that most seniors are in a shelter due to no fault of their own, but instead due to circumstances. Their original owner may have passed away, fallen into financial troubles, or been forced to move to a non-pet-friendly residence. Senior pets are just as affectionate and loving as their younger counterparts. Some individuals are concerned about a senior pet’s longevity compared to a puppy or kitten. Age is no guarantee of health. A perfectly healthy senior pet could outlive a younger pet depending on the circumstances.

Reasons to Adopt a Senior Pet

While a puppy or kitten may be appealing for their cuteness, they may just be too much for one’s lifestyle or schedule. Adopting a baby animal comes with the necessity to potty-train, socialize, practice obedience training, and more in order to raise an upstanding citizen. It’s no different than the pressure of raising a human child and takes much of the same time and effort. Senior pets come with experience and training that a youth does not. They tend to not be destructive, and they tend to be laid back compared to the excited, possibly overstimulating, energy of a baby. A senior pet offers the same affection, loyalty, and companionship as a younger pet at a less aggravating cost.

The Importance of Senior Pet Month

Needless to say, all animals deserve a permanent, loving home including seniors. This month helps remind us that senior pets need adoption, too. Sadly, most senior pets will spend the rest of their lives in a shelter. Many are euthanized. But, using this month to raise awareness and encourage the community to consider adopting a senior pet helps change these unfortunate trends. If you aren’t in a place to bring a new pet into your home, consider donating to or volunteering at your local animal shelter. Don’t wait! Be the change and make a difference for our senior pets.