Keeping an Open Mind to Adopting a Senior or Special Needs Dog

By Dr. Edward Schettino

October is National Adopt a Dog Month, and I can’t think of a better time to drop into your local adoption center to take home a new furry family member.

Of course, when it comes to adopting a dog, many people will initially seek out a puppy. While puppies are adorable, they aren’t the right fit for every family and lifestyle. Adoption centers like the Animal Rescue League of Boston (ARL) have a wide array of dogs and invite you to have an open mind, as well as an open heart and home when considering which animal to adopt.

Here are four types of dogs you may find at ARL or other local shelters:

1. Mature or senior dogs. Anyone who has ever adopted a puppy can affirm that they are a lot of work! With a mature dog you’ll skip the “puppy phase”, and enjoy the benefit of house and behavior training earlier in life. Mature dogs have also developed their personality, so what you see if what you get.
2. Transport dogs. These are dogs that typically come from overcrowding and difficult circumstances from other parts of the country. While they may need additional behavioral training due to their limited interaction with humans, these transport dogs will never stop thanking you with love for bringing them into a caring home.
3. Dogs that were victims of neglect or abuse. These dogs have suffered emotional or physical trauma and often need tremendous support to acclimate to a new home. Despite their prior circumstances, dogs are very resilient and can thrive in a stable home with just a little extra TLC.
4. Dogs with a medical condition. These dogs will require more frequent visits to the veterinarian and/or have medication administered often. Adopting a dog with a chronic or debilitating medical condition can be challenging, but is also very rewarding.

On the surface, you may think adopting any of the aforementioned types of dogs may be an overwhelming decision, but when you adopt from ARL, there are many resources available to help along the way.

First and foremost, ARL’s Adoption-Forward method is a conversation-based, application-free adoption process designed that the needs of both the animals and adopter are being met.

For dogs with certain behavioral or medical conditions, ARL offers one-on-one counseling, on-site private and group dog training, as well as a free pet behavior helpline, should any issues arise along the way.

Adopting a dog is a life-long commitment, but is also a fantastically rewarding experience. When you adopt, ARL will be by your side to offer the tools to help establish a loving bond that will last for years to come!

For more information regarding ARL’s pet-owner resources, be sure to visit our website at arlboston.org.

Dr. Edward Schettino is the President and CEO of the Animal Rescue League of Boston (ARL), and has a Doctorate of Veterinary Medicine from the Cummings School of Veterinary Medicine at Tufts University. Thanks to Dr. Schettino and ARL for contributing this article to Westwood Minute.