The Value of Senior Pets at Home
-The Value of Senior Pets at Home-
In celebration of National Pet Month, our Tampa Bay real estate team is recognizing the value of bringing home senior pets. Older cats and dogs bring plenty of joy like kittens and puppies, but fully grown pets are more likely to come home already housetrained. We are here to tell you the many other reasons to welcome senior pets into your home.
Benefits of Living in a Pet-Friendly Home
Overall, there are many benefits to living in a pet-friendly home. As a cuddly buddy on TV night, or a walking pal for daily fitness – senior pets make especially great companions for retirees and empty nesters.
Research shows both physiological and psychological benefits. For example, pets can help induce relaxation. The relaxing feeling of petting a dog or cat could put you into a calmer state for lowering blood pressure.
Also, there are other health perks to just sitting on the couch with a purring cat. Studies show that quality time can help increase oxytocin levels in the brain, thus, increasing feelings of happiness. There is also great joy in walking on a sunny day with your pet. Most senior dogs are calmer on a leash, making walks a breeze compared to overly energetic puppies.
Pet Adoption and Bringing Home Cats and Dogs
Statistically, pet adoption rates are lower for senior pets than for younger cats and dogs. This is hard to understand when so many benefits outweigh the risks. Understandably, you may fear the idea of having a fewer number of years together than with the adoption of a younger pet, but longevity is often hard to predict for pets.
Also, the breed and personality of a pet may be a bigger factor for the right fit than basing a choice on age. You may find greater happiness in being open to a quality of connection rather than a certain quantity of years.
Of course, planning and research are important. Ensure you have the budget and the time to provide proper care in a pet-friendly home. Food, supplies, grooming, medications, and veterinarian services should all be factored in when considering any pet adoption. If you have room in your heart and your home, check your local pet shelters and rescues for senior pets.
– Humane Society of Tampa Bay (Tampa)
– Hillsborough County Animal Services (Tampa)
– Humane Society of Pinellas (Clearwater)
– SPCA Tampa Bay (Largo)
– Pinellas County Animal Services (Largo)
– Friends of Strays Animal Shelter (St. Petersburg)
– Pasco County Animal Services (Land O’ Lakes)
– Humane Society of Pasco County (Spring Hill)
Our Florida real estate team specializes in helping seniors and customers of all ages buy and sell pet-friendly homes. Contact Dick and Karla Nielsen at 813-294-5786 for helpful information.
