Is it selfish to get a dog when you are a senior - Page 2

Shanus · ‎05-17-2010

@chiclet I don't think you're ever too old (or too young) to receive and give love to a dog. If you're worried about outliving your furry friend, appoint someone you trust to take him/her if necessary.

Jasmine19 · ‎07-16-2012

It's only selfish if you don't plan ahead for what happens if you die or become incapacitated. Animals are living longer than ever. Before I adopted a kitten when I was 60, I made sure my son would take him if I couldn't care for him. I adopted a shelter cat a few years ago from a shelter that requests adopters to return an animal rather than give it away or abandon it.

Abrowneyegirl · ‎03-15-2010

@Shanus wrote:
@chiclet I don't think you're ever too old (or too young) to receive and give love to a dog. If you're worried about outliving your furry friend, appoint someone you trust to take him/her if necessary.

This. We can pass at any age. We have provisions in our will to provide financially for our dogs if they were to outlive us. We understand that pet care is expensive so we want to be sure that they are well taken care of.

Don't get a puppy. Reach out to rescues in your area that can help find a dog to meet your lifestyle and energy.

hopi · ‎03-09-2010

Not selfish at all.

goldensrbest · ‎03-10-2010

I can walk 4 miles if i want, i think your health is important, both physical,and mental, they bring so much to our lives,and we to their lives.

When you lose some one you L~O~V~E, that Memory of them, becomes a TREASURE.

JYWilliams · ‎03-10-2010

Not at all.

Mombo1 · ‎11-02-2015

@chiclet wrote:
I am almost 70 and lost my Pomeranian in August and I miss him every day. I just cannot get over the pain. I want to get another younger one to keep me busy but he may wind up in a shelter if I die before him. I know people say adopt an older shelter dog but I have researched every place online and it is almost all big dogs. My husband and I only have each other and our pets are our world even more so during Covid. I see seniors out walking their dogs and I know that without that dog they would probably never walk or even get out of bed. It is sad that the time in your life you have the time and attention and need for a dog you have to worry about the fact that you dont have the longevity.

@chiclet To me...companionship is priceless. It doesn't matter how old you are.

SXMGirl · ‎07-07-2010

@chiclet Seniors benefit in many ways from having a dog as it gets you out of the house, you get plenty of exercise, and you get to meet and talk to people on your walks. It is just a good way to stay active and alert.

I am a believer that seniors should go to the shelter and adopt a senior dog (or two). You improve your health and save a life, leaving space for another dog at the shelter. To me, it is a win-win.

Most shelters will help you find the dog that will fit your lifestyle and activity level.

Get your dog and enjoy. You are never too old, but have a plan in place for the dog's care, just in case.

The next time that I hear salt and ice together, it better be in a margarita!

mizree · ‎04-04-2016

@chiclet my dear mom used to say only the good Lord knows when our time is up. I believe only a dog will heal your heart. I preview the humane society pets from time to time and see pets of all sizes that have outlived their owners. Know that any time you devote to a pet will be time well spent for the pet and enrich lives for you and your DH. Let us know when you've met your furever friend. Best to you.

PamfromCT · ‎05-22-2014

No, it is not. When our kitty Lily died, our hearts were broken.

After a while, we asked both our adult children if they would take in a kitty if we could not care for it. Both families love animals and did not hesitate to commit. So we adopted our little Winston, who has brought us so much happiness in our old age. He is a beauty, seems to be mostly Maine Coon, as Lily was. He is affectionate, outgoing, and keeps us laughing.