Dogs for Seniors – What to Think About Before You Adopt

Not everyone who dearly wants a dog is a child or “young” adult. Our parents/grandparents also crave the companionship and love of a dog.

If you’re a senior, or know someone who is, here’s my list of considerations seniors should think about before looking for the right dog to adopt.

• Vision/mobility
• Disability (if any)
• Strength/Fitness
• Home
• Income
• Plan for the inevitable

Let’s take them one at a time.

Vision/Mobility

The last thing seniors need is to trip, or lose their balance and fall, because they can’t clearly see the dog. Toy/small dogs are usually the 1^st choice for seniors, but they’re not necessarily the right choice. Getting a dog that is large enough to see, but not too large to be able to be comfortably lifted, may be the wiser decision.

Disability Issues

If seniors need equipment/devices as a part of their daily function, this doesn’t necessarily eliminate their getting a dog, but it does impact the breed of dog that will best fit their lifestyle.

Strength/Fitness

Is there enough upper body strength to handle a leashed dog if it suddenly reacts, jerks or pulls? Will you be able to carry, or lift your dog into a car, in an emergency? I had to lift my 80# GSD into my SUV by myself.

Home

If you live in a community with an HOA, or renting, check the by-laws/lease for any size or breed restrictions. Think of the dog as volume within a home. Some pups are the size of a breadbox, while others the size of an ottoman or a Lazy-Boy.

Income

Whether on a strict, fixed budget, or an income allowing more leeway, food & veterinary costs are the two biggest expenses of owning a dog, other than the cost of the dog itself. Research the items you’ll need, so you’re not surprised later w/cost of ownership.

Plan for the Inevitable

What happens to your dog if something happens to you? Don’t expect your family/friends to care for your dog if you’re in the hospital/rehab, must move & dogs aren’t allowed, or pass on. Consider a Pet Trust and include your pup in your estate planning.

While this is not the “be all, end all” list, I hope I’ve given you something to think about. Many seniors own and love dogs, and many more want to have one. It’s not impossible if you plan and know what to look for.