How adopting a senior pet could change your life in unexpected ways
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If you’ve ever locked eyes with a graying dog or a calm old cat at the shelter and felt a tug on your heart, you’re not alone.
Puppies and kittens tend to grab the spotlight, but senior pets have their own kind of charm—especially for people who’ve lived through a few seasons themselves.
For many older adults, adopting a senior pet is about more than just rescuing an animal.
It’s about companionship, purpose, and the quiet joy of understanding each other’s rhythms.
And for people like Laurie Raymond, 78, that joy can be truly life-changing.
Laurie recently adopted Fiver, a 14-year-old Chihuahua with several health issues—only three teeth, possible heart problems, and more.
Still, she describes him as “lively and bright,” and for her, that’s enough.
A bond rooted in understanding
Laurie found Fiver through the “Seniors for Seniors” program at Colorado Animal Rescue, which matches senior pets with older adopters.
She describes the experience as being full of “reciprocal love”—a kind of relationship that isn’t about giving and taking, but meeting needs with compassion.
“When you take a dog that has needs that you can meet, and you meet them, it may stretch you a little bit, but it is so rewarding,” she said.
That mutual care and patience form the foundation for a special kind of companionship—one based on trust, empathy, and presence.
Also read: Blank Park Zoo welcomes a birth that could mean everything for a vanishing species
Senior pets still have pep
It’s a myth that all senior pets are slow and sleepy. In the pet world, “senior” often just means seven years old or more—still full of life in many cases.
Caitlin Causey, a spokesperson for Colorado Animal Rescue, notes that many older cats and dogs remain active and energetic well into their later years.
Some are great hiking companions, while others prefer curling up beside you with a good book.
The key is finding the right energy match.
Whether you’re an early riser who loves morning walks or someone looking for a mellow roommate, there’s a senior pet out there for you.
Also read: Many chicks have been left without care—how you can offer support if you’re able
The health perks go both ways
Science continues to support what many pet owners already feel: pets are good for our health.
Dr. Lori Kogan of Colorado State University explains that older adults with pets often experience physical and mental health benefits, from increased activity to reduced feelings of isolation. Even a short daily walk can lift your spirits and lead to more social interactions in the neighborhood.
Pets provide a sense of purpose—something to care for and connect with. “It’s something you can actually do to help someone who’s really vulnerable,” Laurie said. And that sense of helping often turns out to be just as rewarding for the human.
Also read: 64-year-old grandma searching for missing cat encounters disaster
Yes, there are real-life concerns
That said, adopting a pet is a commitment. Dr. Kogan is quick to point out that the costs of care, along with emotional considerations like guilt over not always being able to meet a pet’s needs, are real.
The average annual cost for owning a dog in Colorado, for example, is over $1,500.
Shelters like Colorado Animal Rescue try to support senior adopters with food pantries and by covering initial medical needs, but it’s important to go in with open eyes.
And yes, there’s also the delicate issue of what happens if your pet outlives you. Having a plan in place—naming a friend or family member as backup, or coordinating with a shelter—can offer peace of mind.
Also read: Seniors can bring home a furry friend for free—and never worry about vet bills again
Matching the right pet with the right person
Not everyone needs a jogging partner. If daily walks are too much, a quiet, cuddly cat or a low-energy dog might be a better fit. Shelters can help find animals whose personalities and needs align with yours.
One benefit of senior pets? They’re usually already house-trained and far beyond the teething or scratching phase—making them lower maintenance for many.
Dr. Kogan encourages people to be realistic and honest about what they want in a companion. A good match can make both human and pet feel happier and more secure!
Also read: Meet the pink pup: Luna’s story will tug at your heart
You’re not in this alone
The good news is, there’s growing community support for senior pet adoption. Many shelters offer resources specifically for older adults—from adoption support to food and veterinary assistance.
If you're on the fence, talking to others who’ve adopted senior pets can provide insight and encouragement.
If you're thinking about adopting a senior pet or just want to explore your options, there are several helpful resources available to guide and support you.
From financial assistance to expert advice and local adoption programs, these sites can make the process smoother and more reassuring—especially for older adults looking to find the perfect companion.
If you already share your life with a senior pet, your experience might inspire someone else. The challenges are real, but so are the joys—and there’s strength in knowing others are walking the same path.
Read next: Thinking of adopting a pet for mental health? This woman’s experience with her cat might surprise you
Have you adopted a senior pet or are you thinking about it? What’s your biggest concern—or the most rewarding moment so far? Share your thoughts in the comments below.
Whether it’s stories, tips, or questions, your voice might just be the one that helps someone else take the leap—and find a friend who knows that love, like wine and wisdom, only gets better with age!
Puppies and kittens tend to grab the spotlight, but senior pets have their own kind of charm—especially for people who’ve lived through a few seasons themselves.
For many older adults, adopting a senior pet is about more than just rescuing an animal.
It’s about companionship, purpose, and the quiet joy of understanding each other’s rhythms.
And for people like Laurie Raymond, 78, that joy can be truly life-changing.
Laurie recently adopted Fiver, a 14-year-old Chihuahua with several health issues—only three teeth, possible heart problems, and more.
Still, she describes him as “lively and bright,” and for her, that’s enough.
A warm moment with Laurie, who opened her heart and home to a senior dog through a local adoption program. Image Source: © 2025 Colorado Public Radio.
A bond rooted in understanding
Laurie found Fiver through the “Seniors for Seniors” program at Colorado Animal Rescue, which matches senior pets with older adopters.
She describes the experience as being full of “reciprocal love”—a kind of relationship that isn’t about giving and taking, but meeting needs with compassion.
“When you take a dog that has needs that you can meet, and you meet them, it may stretch you a little bit, but it is so rewarding,” she said.
That mutual care and patience form the foundation for a special kind of companionship—one based on trust, empathy, and presence.
Also read: Blank Park Zoo welcomes a birth that could mean everything for a vanishing species
Senior pets still have pep
It’s a myth that all senior pets are slow and sleepy. In the pet world, “senior” often just means seven years old or more—still full of life in many cases.
Caitlin Causey, a spokesperson for Colorado Animal Rescue, notes that many older cats and dogs remain active and energetic well into their later years.
Some are great hiking companions, while others prefer curling up beside you with a good book.
The key is finding the right energy match.
Whether you’re an early riser who loves morning walks or someone looking for a mellow roommate, there’s a senior pet out there for you.
The health perks go both ways
Science continues to support what many pet owners already feel: pets are good for our health.
Dr. Lori Kogan of Colorado State University explains that older adults with pets often experience physical and mental health benefits, from increased activity to reduced feelings of isolation. Even a short daily walk can lift your spirits and lead to more social interactions in the neighborhood.
Pets provide a sense of purpose—something to care for and connect with. “It’s something you can actually do to help someone who’s really vulnerable,” Laurie said. And that sense of helping often turns out to be just as rewarding for the human.
Also read: 64-year-old grandma searching for missing cat encounters disaster
Yes, there are real-life concerns
That said, adopting a pet is a commitment. Dr. Kogan is quick to point out that the costs of care, along with emotional considerations like guilt over not always being able to meet a pet’s needs, are real.
The average annual cost for owning a dog in Colorado, for example, is over $1,500.
Shelters like Colorado Animal Rescue try to support senior adopters with food pantries and by covering initial medical needs, but it’s important to go in with open eyes.
And yes, there’s also the delicate issue of what happens if your pet outlives you. Having a plan in place—naming a friend or family member as backup, or coordinating with a shelter—can offer peace of mind.
Also read: Seniors can bring home a furry friend for free—and never worry about vet bills again
Matching the right pet with the right person
Not everyone needs a jogging partner. If daily walks are too much, a quiet, cuddly cat or a low-energy dog might be a better fit. Shelters can help find animals whose personalities and needs align with yours.
One benefit of senior pets? They’re usually already house-trained and far beyond the teething or scratching phase—making them lower maintenance for many.
Dr. Kogan encourages people to be realistic and honest about what they want in a companion. A good match can make both human and pet feel happier and more secure!
Also read: Meet the pink pup: Luna’s story will tug at your heart
You’re not in this alone
The good news is, there’s growing community support for senior pet adoption. Many shelters offer resources specifically for older adults—from adoption support to food and veterinary assistance.
If you're on the fence, talking to others who’ve adopted senior pets can provide insight and encouragement.
If you're thinking about adopting a senior pet or just want to explore your options, there are several helpful resources available to guide and support you.
From financial assistance to expert advice and local adoption programs, these sites can make the process smoother and more reassuring—especially for older adults looking to find the perfect companion.
- ASPCA – Offers detailed guides and articles on adopting and caring for senior pets: www.aspca.org
- Pets for the Elderly Foundation – Helps cover adoption fees for seniors adopting companion animals from participating shelters: www.petsfortheelderly.org
- The Grey Muzzle Organization – Funds programs nationwide to help older dogs find homes and receive proper care: www.greymuzzle.org
- Humane Society Shelter Locator – Find local shelters and rescues that may have senior-pet programs: www.humanesociety.org/shelters
- AgingCare – Offers information and community support for older adults considering pet ownership: www.agingcare.com
If you already share your life with a senior pet, your experience might inspire someone else. The challenges are real, but so are the joys—and there’s strength in knowing others are walking the same path.
Read next: Thinking of adopting a pet for mental health? This woman’s experience with her cat might surprise you
Have you adopted a senior pet or are you thinking about it? What’s your biggest concern—or the most rewarding moment so far? Share your thoughts in the comments below.
Whether it’s stories, tips, or questions, your voice might just be the one that helps someone else take the leap—and find a friend who knows that love, like wine and wisdom, only gets better with age!
