Sophia M.

Administrator
Staff member
Mar 16, 2025
1,030
300
83
Front Porch Forum: "Should I adopt a senior pet even if my daughter thinks I won’t be able to keep up?" (08/16/2025)


alexander-grey-42AQP6w8uyI-unsplash Medium.jpeg
Image source: Unsplash



Pull up a seat, GrayViners! “A Dog Could Change Everything” wonders if opening her heart and home to a senior pup is a joyful choice or a risky leap. Is this love worth the responsibility—or is it a gamble too great? Read on and share your thoughts.

Hello TGV,

I’ve always had a dog. Until five years ago, when my sweet Rosie passed and I promised I’d wait a while. That while has turned into too long. Lately, the house feels too quiet. The walks feel lonelier. And my heart feels restless.

I saw a senior dog at the shelter last week. Ten years old. Mellow. With the kindest eyes. I felt something open up again. But when I told my daughter, she said I was being reckless. That it was too much responsibility at my age. She listed all the things that could go wrong. And I started to wonder if maybe she’s right.

But am I not allowed to choose joy? Even if it’s messy? Even if it comes with vet bills and early mornings and little paw prints on the rug? I don’t want to be reckless. I want to be real. I want companionship. Purpose. Love.

Maybe I won’t live another ten years. But maybe I will. And maybe I’d like to spend those years waking up to someone who wags their tail when I open my eyes.

Is that foolish or is it exactly what I need?

Still setting out the water bowl, just in case,
A Dog Could Change Everything

Have you ever been told not to do something that your heart was set on? How did you decide? Share your stories and advice below. And if you have a question or a story of your own, send us a letter and join the conversation.
 
My 82-year-old Mom and I discussed this just yesterday. I encouraged her to go to a shelter and choose an older dog. She said it was just too much to take care of right now I hope she changes her mind, Her and my Dad loved their prior dogs so much and they were so spoiled. My Mom would cook an egg for them and cut it in half and save the other half for the next day. They got ice cream after dinner. Hopefully I planted a seed. My Mom still takes her morning walks so that isn't an issue. I truly think they would enjoy having a dog in the house.
 
The best feeling in the world is adopting a precious senior pet! True they won’t be around as long as, say, a puppy, but they also (most of the time), don’t use the bathroom all over the place, don’t chew up your furniture, and love for you to let them sit with or on you!
I love animals, and have always had at least one dog. No cats, I’m severly allergic. But I would never hurt one!
I think if you are able, adopting a precious senior is perfect!
 
I’ve always had dogs in my life! When my sweet Enzo died (age 15, Feb 2025), I didn’t know if I would ever love another dog as much as I loved him. Then by a fluke, I met Miss Stella, an 11 year old Bichon-Poodle mix, who was dumped by her previous owners because she was too old. She’s been with me for 4 months now, and she is a playful, loving, cuddle bug.
I’ve often heard that your last dog sends you a new dog to love. I’m certain my sweet Enzo sent Stella to me. We love our daily walks, playtime, and naps. (Baths not so much 🤪).
This is Miss Stella with my grandson 😊❤️
(PS: I’m 76)
 

Attachments

  • IMG_2453.jpeg
    IMG_2453.jpeg
    192.2 KB · Views: 0

Join the conversation

News, deals, games, and bargains for Americans over 60. From everyday expenses like groceries and eating out, to electronics, fashion and travel, The GrayVine is all about helping you make your money go further.

The GrayVine

The GrayVine searches for the best deals, discounts, and bargains for over 60's. From everyday expenses like groceries and eating out, to electronics, fashion and travel, we're all about helping you make your money go further.
  1. New members
  2. Jokes & Fun
  3. Photography
  4. Nostalgia / Yesterday's America
  5. Money Saving Hacks
  6. Offtopic / Everything else
  7. News & Politics
Share With a Friend
Change Weather Zip code ×
Change Petrol Postcode×