Here at the ASPCA, we love animals of all ages, shapes, sizes and breeds. But this month, we want to spotlight a special group of lovable furry friends—senior pets. 

November officially marks Adopt a Senior Pet Month, and to honor this special month, we want to make sure you know all of the benefits of opening your heart and your home to a senior pet in need.

While their younger counterparts may be adorable, older pets are just as cute and loving, and they are also just as ready to become beloved pets. They just need someone to give them a chance to live out their golden years in a loving home. Not to mention, adopting a senior animal companion comes with some great advantages:

• Senior pets don’t require the constant monitoring and training that puppies and kittens do.
• Many are already housetrained.
• Since senior pets are fully grown, you’ll be immediately aware of important information like personality type and grooming requirements, making it easier to choose the perfect pet for your family.
• Since senior pets have already grown into their personalities, they are usually pretty easy going and set in their ways. 

It is a sad fact that senior pets are often the last to be adopted from shelters, putting them at an increased risk for euthanasia. When you adopt a senior pet, you’re not only welcoming a lifetime of love into your home, you’re also saving a precious life—and what could be better than that?

If you’ve been thinking about adding a four-legged-friend to your family, we ask that you consider opening your home and your heart to an older dog or cat in need. 

If you’re feeling inspired to bring home an older pet in the New York City area, stop by the ASPCA Adoption Center, or find a shelter near you and ask their staff about senior pets in need.