NOVEMBER IS ADOPT A SENIOR PET MONTH
Puppies, kittens and other young animals are cute. They require a lot of time commitment, patience and energy from their owners. Many people have busy work and home schedules that keep them from providing the care necessary for proper training.
Although older animals can be less demanding than a younger pet, they still require quality time in the form of love/attention, feeding, exercise/play and veterinary care. Adult animals have often been socialized to live in a home and many are house broken or litter trained.
Adult animals are often more practical for families with children. Puppies and kittens sometimes nip and claw which can be frightening to children who can be rough with young animals. A mature pet that interacts well with children can be the best option for all those involved.
Older pets become available for many reasons including; animals become too big for apartment living, previous owner moved out of town or into a home that does not allow animals, the owner enters a nursing home or dies. The family suffers relationship changes or a new partner does not like the pet. In addition, of course do not forget the stray and homeless animals that are at the shelter.
Older animals have different nutritional needs and your veterinarian should be consulted about any dietary questions.
The Mesquite Animal Shelter has a wide variety of dogs, puppies, cats, kittens and even an occasional ferret, rat or parakeet. The animals come in many breeds, colors, ages and socialization levels. You might just find a pet of a lifetime right here in Mesquite.
Keep your senior pet in tip-top shape
- Regular, moderate activity and daily playtime will help your senior pet stay healthy and avoid obesity which can put extra stress on your pet’s heart and on arthritic joints.
- Even the most energetic dogs slow down as they become older. Many elderly dogs try to keep up with their owner while running or walking and don’t know to rest when they’ve reached their limit. Keep an eye for signs that your dog appears tired and reluctant to continue exercising, and take that as an indicator to scale back your dog’s exercise regime. Talk with your vet about an appropriate frequency, length of time, and type of exercise for your senior dog.
- Massage can help reduce your senior pet’s potential for arthritis and relief from muscular stiffness and discomfort. Plus, massage will help relax and calm your pet.
- Older cats are usually less adaptable to change, so you can reduce stress by maintaining normalcy in your household. If your cat has to be boarded while you are on vacation, keep her with a familiar blanket that already has her scent on it – or, better yet, have a pet sitter come to your home. Stress can be alleviated by giving more affection and attention during times of emotional upheaval.
Help your senior pet stay sharp
- Contrary to popular belief, an old dog – or old cat – can be taught new tricks. Animals of any age enjoy learning, and stimulating your older pet’s mind is a great way to make sure your pet is healthy and happy.
- Peak activity for cats occurs in the early morning and in the evening. Your senior cat might be more apt to play at those times and it’s a perfect opportunity to get her moving. Try using a wand or fishing pole-style toy to get her to chase. Rolling ping pong balls across a wood or tile floor will provide lots of interactive playtime, too.
- Although senior pets like familiarity, simple things such as rotating toys can bring some excitement into their lives.
- Take your senior dog on car rides and on walks in new locations so they can explore and take in the sights, sounds, and smells of different locations.
Senior pet wellness checks
- Keep in mind that every year for a dog or cat is equivalent to 5–7 human years. In order stay current with your senior pet’s health care; visit your veterinarian every six months for a complete exam and any necessary laboratory tests. These regular visits will enable your veterinarian to diagnose any age-related illnesses at the earliest stage possible and begin treatment.
- In between vet visits, make sure you pay attention to any changes in your pet’s behavior, activity level or physical appearance.
Featured Dog: Trey
Trey is looking for someone who will be as devoted to him as he will be to them. You see he has only 3 LEGS. He gets around with no problems. He was found as a stray with another dog. Someone who works from home or has a flexible schedule would be a great match for him! He is loyal and will forever be a friend. He’s a great dog and would be a wonderful companion! Very playful and loving. Real people pup. 4 years old
Other Available Dogs:
Earl 10 years old tiny Chihuahua. Get around well and loves to cuddle.
Mojo 4 years old Papillion/chi blend Black & white Housetrained, great dog.
Merry and Georgia. Bonded pair of toy fox terriers. Housetrained very friendly.
Featured Cat: Truffles
Did I hear you say that you want a cute, fun, lovable, adorable, cuddly, energetic, and awesome cat?? Well, that’s me! Here I am!! Come and adopt me please! Seriously, I am a pretty great little lady, if I do say so myself! I just love life – every day is another day in which I can play, explore, and share my joy with those around me! I come when called. I have a pretty “swirly” colors to my coat and am quite striking even if I do say so myself. Please won’t you come adopt me and make me your awesome, wonderful, adorable cat?
Other Available Cats:
Nappy female dilute Calico. Very friendly, loves attention
Lance male 6 months old grey tiger stripe. Shy but friendly and playful
Friends of Mesquite Animal Shelter will be holding its first RUMMAGE SALE on Friday, November 14, 2014 from 8 a.m.-3 p.m. at 718 Hardy Way. A special pre-sale will be held Thursday November 13th at the same location, from 2-6pm. Pre-sale shoppers are asked to bring a can of dog or cat food. All proceeds go to benefit the animals.
All animals will be spayed or neutered prior to leaving shelter and receive 1 year rabies vaccination and city license. Ages are approximated.
The City of Mesquite Animal Shelter located at 795 Hardy Way is open for adoptions from 11am until 1 pm, Monday through Saturday, Sunday 1pm -3pm. Please call 702-346-7415 during these hours to speak to the front desk. Animal Control may be reached by phone or voicemail at 702-346-5268
The animals submitted to the media may have changes so please visit our Petfinder website for a current listing and more detailed information on the animals. www.mesquiteanimalshelter.petfinder.com
