Rescue Spotlight: The Senior Dogs Project

Dogs have a shorter lifespan than humans, and are considered to be "senior citizens" around the age of five or six. Due to this shorter lifespan and the large number of families that desire a cute puppy, a lot of people shy away from adopting older dogs that find themselves homeless in their golden years. The number of senior dogs in shelters and rescues continues to increase each year, and as a result, the number of these beautiful furry friends being euthanized also increases. One organization, the Senior Dogs Project, is making an impact for senior citizen canines by providing services to their human parents and prospective parents.

Listing of Shelters, Rescue and Placement Agencies and Sanctuaries

The Senior Dog Project does NOT have a shelter of its own. However, the Project maintains a list of shelters, rescues and other agencies that focus on rehoming senior citizens. They also spotlight one of these organizations on a regular basis on their website. In order to be listed and featured, an organization must focus on dogs above the age of five years old. This listing helps connect potential adopters with a senior dog in their area that meets their needs.

Health Care Information

The Senior Dog Project also lists answers to frequently asked questions about health issues for senior dogs. While the Senior Dog Project does not have a veterinarian on staff, they do provide links and resources for individuals who have in-depth questions that need the attention of a licensed veterinarian. This helps greatly in a time of medical crisis.

Profiles & Biographies

The Senior Dog Project also profiles senior dogs from around the country. These profiles help to educate the public and show that senior dogs are capable of providing love and companionship, and are just as deserving of homes as younger dogs and puppies. Many people see senior dogs as old, broken-down, and just marking time until their death. This is not true at all! My family owned a Husky that lived to be over 20 years old! His previous owner threw him away when he was only six, claiming that he'd be dead in a year. He even attempted to euthanize the poor guy, until my Dad stepped in and saved the dog. That dog was one of the best dogs we've ever had the pleasure of being owned by. He was loyal, protective and loving, and played like a pup up until the year before his death in March 2008. I shudder to think of all the love we would have missed out on if he'd been put to sleep because of his (young) age!

In our throw-away society, it is difficult for so many dogs to find loving homes where they can be accepted and loved for their own individual qualities. Some statistics state that an average of 800 dogs & cats are killed per HOUR in this nation. These are appalling statistics, and need to be changed! The Senior Dog Project is helping to bring about this change through education. If you are looking to adopt a dog, please rescue a dog - don't buy one! And consider adopting a "senior" dog - many times, they are even better than puppies due to their age and wisdom!