There are many reasons for owning a pet but for seniors, the benefits of adopting a dog can be life-changing – and not just for the dog. Recently I decided to jump back into dog ownership again after several years, so let me share what I have learned so far and some things to be considered before adopting a dog.

Introduction

Full disclosure, I am a dog person. I don’t have anything against other animals or pets but for the majority of my adult life, there has always been a dog in my house. In the last several years whenever I thought about bringing a new furry companion into the house, I managed to convince myself that it wasn’t a good idea – too much time away, too busy, too confining etc.

So what changed? I read about the influx of animals being given up to the SPCA and shelters by people no longer able to care for pets taken home during the pandemic, which got me thinking. That lead me to do some inquiring and I came across the numerous agencies, local and national, dedicated to saving animals around to world. Countries experiencing catastrophic natural disasters, war-torn countries, poorer nations and our own communities are all in need of humane animal welfare. 

Pets of all sorts can be excellent companions and help seniors lead longer and healthier lives when thoughtful consideration is given to choosing the right pet. But before you start searching for your new canine housemate read my thoughts on ‘Things to consider’ at the end of this post.

If you’re an older adult like me who lives on your own, having a pet can have a positive impact on your overall health and well-being. Here are five reasons why you too should consider adopting a dog.

1. Companionship – better than tv or background music

Being greeted at the door by a tail-wagging ‘I’m so happy to see you’ dog is nothing short of absolute love. Even if you were only out for a short trip to the grocery store you’ll get the same enthusiastic response as if you were gone for weeks.

Many seniors live alone with loneliness and depression and could benefit greatly from the companionship that comes from loving and caring for a dog. Not all couples enjoy the same activities which can sometimes make for poor companionship.

In the park or the elevator animals will often be the catalyst to get a conversation started. Having a dog as a companion can help seniors who may not have many other people in their lives to open up and chat with them.

Sometimes just hanging out together with your pet in the house is all you need to remind yourself you are an important part of their life. Not only do dogs provide friendship and companionship, but they can also be great stress relievers.

2. Reduced Stress – hormones are good for you

Dogs are loyal and affectionate animals. Being around them can boost serotonin and oxytocin levels, two hormones responsible for feeling happy and content.

The simple presence of a dog can help reduce stress by providing a distraction from negative thoughts and the perception of pain. Refocusing thoughts can be especially helpful for seniors with chronic illnesses such as dementia or Alzheimer’s. This is why care homes often have dogs visit regularly.

The kind of unconditional love dogs offer to their owners can provide comfort, especially during difficult times even if you aren’t living alone. 

Spending time petting and playing with a dog can help to reduce tension and make a difficult situation more manageable. Research has shown that simply petting a dog lowers the stress hormone cortisol. 

3. Improved heart health – always a good thing

Regular exercise is an important component of overall health for seniors so having a dog can help improve your heart health through exercise. 

Dogs need regular walks and exercise, so having one around encourages you to move more often and stay fit. In addition, walking with a pet is usually more frequent, longer and farther than walking without a pet.

Seniors who adopt dogs tend to be healthier overall. Studies show they have lower blood pressure, lower triglycerides, and lower cholesterol levels and they are less likely to develop heart disease than those who don’t.

Besides the physical and mental benefits, getting out and about with a dog can have the added advantage of increased social interaction. You may not meet your next life partner but you might have some interesting conversations.

4. Encourage an active lifestyle – friendly motivation

Dogs also provide a sense of purpose since they need to be looked after and nurtured. Caring for a pet requires a routine for feeding and exercise which benefits your physical and mental health.

Maybe you find it difficult to get motivated to walk some days, well a dog can help with that. Michigan State University found that people who interacted with dogs were 34 percent more likely to meet benchmarks on physical activity and are more active in general.

A study done in Sweden over 12 years found that seniors who have a pet are more likely to live longer than those who don’t have one. Dog owners are more likely to be physically active, eat better, are less likely to smoke, and have lower blood sugar than non-pet owners.

5. Security – real and perceived

Besides being a great source of companionship and love, dogs can also provide security. For some that might be size related (think German Shepard) but for others, it can be the amount of noise they make (think Schnauzer).

Most dogs are alert and attentive so having one in the house can help some older adults feel safe.

Even when I was dogless I kept a half-full dog water dish and leash near the back door in case someone looked in the window when I was away. A better option would be an actual dog.

Things to consider

While having a pet can be a wonderful experience, it’s not necessarily the right choice for everyone. It’s important to consider all factors before making an informed decision and to ensure that you’re able to provide the necessary care and attention for your pet’s wellbeing.

In general, you will want to consider your current physical state, and your living situation then you can determine the breed best suited to your lifestyle. In my case, I am looking for a small or medium-sized dog that is between 1-4 years of age. I don’t have a fenced yard but I have direct access to the outdoors. Check out the American Kennel Club for helpful information and expert advice on dog breeds

Your local SPCA, Humane Society, special groups like Small Dog Rescue and Adopt a pet are all good places to start. Not all breeds will be available so think about what your deal breakers would be. Maybe you can adopt an older dog or at least not a puppy.

When you complete an adoption application there are many questions you might not have thought about. Thinking about these questions now will help you be prepared when you are invited to an interview either in person or virtual. Believe me when I say it feels a bit nerve wracking.

Lifestyle 

You should consider life as it is today as well as what it might look like 3,5, even10 years in the future. Some dogs can live up to15 years – consider this at the outset. Of course no one has a crystal ball but there are usually clear indicators to guide you. If you live with a partner then there will need to be adequate discussion.

• What is your physical condition?
• Do you want to improve your health?
• Future travel plans?
• How will you get to the vet? Do you still drive?
• Do you live in an apartment or house with a yard?
• If you live in a strata complex review the rules for size or breed restrictions.
• Certain breeds are better suited to some environments. Keep in mind that some small dogs suited to apartments can also be barkers.

Finances

Pets come with added costs – food, toys, grooming, training, medication, veterinarian visits, and others. Consider how this might affect your other financial commitments.

• Are you able to handle unforeseen bills either related to yourself or the pet?
• Some breeds are known for particular types of health issues (hip dysplasia and ear infections etc ) that can be costly
• Where will the dog live out the rest of its life if you are no longer able to care for it?

If you are not able to have a pet of your own but want to reap the benefits perhaps consider offering to walk a neighbour’s dog while they are at work, or dog sit for a few hours so you both have company and stay out of trouble. My mother has been the go-to dog sitter for my sisters dogs (big and small) for years.

And So….

I have completed the application process and regularly check to see which of the many adoptables have been given a home. I know this can take time but while I wait I am checking out all the nearby dog parks and trails.

Many seniors think that they are too old to adopt a dog, but that’s not true! In fact, there are many benefits to seniors, single or not, who adopt dogs. Adopting a dog is a great way to get the companionship, exercise, and security needed to stay healthy, happy, and safe. 

So if you or a loved one is a senior considering adopting a dog, do some investigating and consider giving a dog a loving home! Fair warning, none of the dogs pictured in the article are up for adoption.

Let me know in the comments if you too are considering adopting a dog. And I would love to see pictures of your pets.