While people often gravitate toward puppies and younger dogs when looking for a new furry family member, there are many reasons to consider adopting a senior dog. November is “Adopt a Senior Pet Month,” and Austin Boxer Rescue has a number of older dogs in our care currently who urgently need a forever home. 

In this BSA, we’ll explore the advantages of welcoming an older canine companion into your life. Additionally, we’ll shine a spotlight on the ABR Silver Heart program, which is dedicated to caring for senior Boxers and finding them loving forever homes.

Many of the older Boxers in ABR’s care have made their way to us because their original owners could no longer care for them properly or their life circumstances changed. Silver Hearts are Boxers ages 10 years and older, but there are plenty of other ABR dogs well past puppyhood who are looking for forever homes, too. These wonderful dogs just want a comfortable home to spend their remaining years. 

Why Should You Consider Adopting a Senior Dog?

Adopting a senior dog is a heartwarming experience that comes with its own set of unique joys. Senior dogs are often calmer and less energetic than puppies, making them an ideal choice for families or individuals looking for a quieter, more settled companion.

Unlike puppies, the personality and temperament of senior dogs are well-established, which means you can get to know them and their needs faster. Adopting a senior dog is a true act of kindness, as older dogs are often overlooked and abandoned, and giving them a second chance at a happy life is incredibly rewarding. 

Senior dogs often develop strong bonds with their new owners, displaying profound gratitude for the love and care they receive. Plus, older dogs are usually long past their destructive phases, making your furniture and shoes safer!

The ABR Silver Heart Program 

ABR is a beacon of hope for senior dogs in need of forever homes. Our Silver Heart Program is a testament to our dedication to caring for and finding loving homes for senior Boxer dogs. This program provides a safe haven for senior Boxers, ensuring they receive the specialized care and attention they need to live out their lives in comfort.

This program is an excellent option for someone who is prepared to care for a Boxer who is older and/or in need of hospice care, or for someone who longs to have a dog in their life but needs help with some of the expenses of doing so. To adopt a Boxer through the Silver Hearts program, you must complete the application process. The adoption fee is waived for dogs in our Silver Hearts program. ABR will continue to pay for vaccinations, hospice care and/or euthanasia at the end of the dog’s life through a partnered veterinarian.

Our Silver Heart Program includes:

Specialized Medical Care: Senior Boxers in the program receive comprehensive medical care to address their specific health needs, ensuring they are comfortable and pain-free.

Loving Foster Homes: Silver Heart Boxers are placed in loving foster homes where they receive the care and attention they deserve.

Adoption Support: ABR actively helps foster families and adopters of our Silver Heart Boxers with the expenses for medical care.

November’s “Adopt a Senior Pet Month” is an excellent time to consider opening your heart and home to a senior Boxer. The joys of adopting an older canine companion are immeasurable, and the ABR Silver Heart Program exemplifies the commitment to providing senior Boxers with the care and love they deserve. Remember, when you choose to adopt a senior dog, you’re not just changing their life; you’re also changing yours for the better.

 

Additional Resources:

The Joys of Adopting a Senior Dog

What to Expect when you Adopt an Older Dog

Top 10 Reasons to Adopt a Senior Dog

A Short List of Reasons You Should Adopt a Senior Dog

The Challenges and Benefits of Adopting a Senior Dog:  Is it Right for You?