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Tag: younger

  • Austin Pets Alive! | Common Misconceptions About Adopting an Older Dog

    Austin Pets Alive! | Common Misconceptions About Adopting an Older Dog

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    Nov 17, 2023

    While age is just a number, senior dogs are often overlooked for adoption due to misconceptions about what having an older dog means. November is Senior Pet Month and we’re working to shine the golden spot light on these amazing animals by breaking down some common senior pet misconceptions! Seniors like Abby want you to know that entering their golden years means these pups at heart deserve more than ever to spend their days in a loving home. In return, they promise to shower their human companions with affection and live each day to its fullest potential.

    Misconception #1: Old Dogs Are No Longer Energetic

    One of the most prevalent misconceptions about older dogs is that they become lethargic and lose their energy as they age. While it’s true that older dogs may not have the same boundless energy as puppies, they can still be quite active and enjoy physical activities. In fact, regular exercise is essential for maintaining their physical and mental health. Adjusting the type and intensity of exercise to match their age and health status is crucial. Consult with your veterinarian to develop a suitable exercise routine for your senior dog.

    Misconception #2: You Can’t Teach Old Dogs New Tricks

    The old adage “you can’t teach an old dog new tricks” couldn’t be further from the truth. Older dogs are just as capable of learning new things as their younger counterparts. While it may take a bit more time and patience, training an older dog can be a rewarding experience. In fact, older dogs often come with the advantage of being calmer and having better attention spans, making them more receptive to training.

    Misconception #3: Older Dogs Are Not Suitable for Adoption

    Many people believe that older dogs are not ideal candidates for adoption and that puppies or younger dogs are better options. However, older dogs can make fantastic pets. They often come already house-trained and have established personalities, making it easier to find a dog whose temperament matches your lifestyle. Adopting an older dog can also be incredibly rewarding, as you provide a loving home for a dog in its golden years.

    Misconception #4: Older Dogs Don’t Need Social Interaction

    Older dogs, just like their younger counterparts, benefit from social interaction and mental stimulation. Isolation can lead to anxiety and depression in older dogs, so it’s important to provide opportunities for socialization and playtime. Consider arranging playdates with other dogs, taking leisurely walks in the park, or engaging in interactive games to keep your senior dog’s mind and body active.

    Older dogs are often misunderstood and over-looked at shelters due to misconceptions about their behavior and needs. It’s important to recognize that older dogs can lead happy, fulfilling lives with the right care and attention. By dispelling these misconceptions, we hope more potential adopters will consider making a senior dog part of their family. APA! has successfully placed many wonderful seniors in foster or adoptive homes where they continue to thrive and bring joy to their new family.

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  • Austin Pets Alive! | 27 Roosters Rescued From Cockfighting Urgently…

    Austin Pets Alive! | 27 Roosters Rescued From Cockfighting Urgently…

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    Dec 19, 2022

    Twenty-seven roosters who were rescued out of cockfighting, now need urgent placement at sanctuaries or approved homes. If they are not placed, they may be euthanized as soon as early next week.

    These roosters were rescued out of a cockfighting bust on November 10, in which the Austin Police Department Animal Cruelty Unit seized 43 animals (9 hens and 34 roosters). After the court case, the animals were removed from the owners. The hens and two roosters were quickly adopted, leaving 32 roosters remaining at Austin Animal Center (AAC).

    AAC notified Austin Pets Alive! recently that they would like assistance placing these roosters with sanctuaries or in homes, given APA!’s success in saving the lives of animals who would be euthanized in nearly any other shelter. We did not hesitate to say yes, but time is of the essence.

    APA! has assisted with finding sanctuaries for some of the roosters already. Today there are approximately 27 birds still in the city shelter.

    These are animals who were saved out of unimaginable cruelty. “These roosters did not get a happy start to life,” says Austin Pets Alive!’s senior program manager Kelly Holt. “Cockfighting is a brutal, illegal sport. We want to help give these roosters a second chance at life, because it’s the right thing to do.”

    We don’t know the history of every individual rooster, but there are clues about what each bird has experienced. Some still have their combs and wattles—the fleshy skin on top of their head, and below their beak—and their spurs, which are horn-like leg growths the animals use to protect themselves. These are likely the younger roosters, who haven’t yet been forced to fight.

    They may have an easier time learning to trust humans and integrating into flocks, than the older birds. “The ones who have their combs and wattles removed or spurs cut are likely ones who have fought or been trained to fight. They will take more patience and time,” Kelly says.

    APA! can offer support and guidance for any potential adopters and interested sanctuaries about training, rehabilitation, and care. Kelly recommends, to start, that anyone adopting one of the rescued roosters to “give them a space to decompress and feel safe.” The roosters can be introduced to a flock of hens, and may even be able to integrate with them right away, though others may take more time.

    What is certain is that these animals, saved from a cruelty they never should have had to endure, should not now be killed simply for lack of having a safe place to stay. But time is running out.

    APA! knows that the remaining roosters likely have a few days before “quality of life” decisions will be made. If you know of a sanctuary, or person who could undergo screening from a sanctuary, interested in adopting these roosters, please email [email protected].

    “It’s a challenge finding these roosters safe homes, and it would be easy to shrug our shoulders,” Kelly says. “But I love working for an animal welfare nonprofit willing to step up and champion the lives of animals who need our help the most.”

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