Unfortunately, the older animals are usually the last to be adopted. Everyone is drawn to the cute playful, kitten or puppy. Adoptive families are missing out on a great adoption option if they do not consider adopting an older pet from the pound.
Many times these animals are in the shelter due to their owners circumstances and through no fault of their own. The owners are moving, pass on, divorce, new baby, financial problems, allergies or any number of reasons. Some are strays or are abused by their owners. Very rarely is an older dog turned in for behavior issues.
The benefits of adopting older animals are huge. You don't have to go through the puppy training stage. An older pet just needs to learn a new routine and these pets somehow sense they are being given a second chance and are very grateful and easily trainable in most cases. You will also have a sense of the dog's personality which enables you to see how the dog will blend with your family.
It's the perfect solution for families that don't have the time or patience to tolerate a puppy. Young dogs require need more attention and care. Dealing with soiled carpets, jumping, and chewing are behavior challenges you usually don't have to deal with when adopting a mature dog.
This is a great opportunity to help a senior dog live out the rest of their lives in a nice, loving home. Many Animal Humane groups offer discounted fees for adopting older pets.
There's always a down side to everything and as far as adopting these senior pets, say 10 years and up, will be the medical costs involved. Like their human counterparts, dogs are often on maintenance drugs. Another downside is the limited number of years that you will have them in your life.
I can persnally vouch for adopting older pets. The last two dogs I adopted from the shelter were 8 and 10 years old. They turned out to be great pets and they easily adapted to our household.