Seniors Need Love Too!

If you have never owned a Wire Fox Terrier, especially if you are approaching those golden years, we strongly suggest you consider a senior dog. Remember that dogs may qualify as a senior by eight-years of age. That is an age when Wire Fox Terriers are just getting settled a bit–the whirlwind calms, if not to a gentle breeze, at least to moderate one!

We frequently hear, “I recently lost my dog, and I want more years before I grieve again.” We understand that feeling because we know the deep bonds that form with a beloved dog.

Adopting a senior usually means having a different perspective. It’s more dog focused than “me” focused. That is, it is not about the time YOU have with the dog, it’s about the time THEY have with you. We have adopters who have learned the unequaled rewards of focusing on giving the dog the very best years of their lives! In return, they witness appreciation, loyalty and love transferring to them. Sometimes, it can be the very best antidote to grief.

Many senior dogs have been loving, well behaved dogs all their lives and through no fault of their own, they are alone and need the companionship they have known for years. They are perfect companions for senior people–especially those who know the devastation of losing a life-long partner. The loss of a lifetime companion is also difficult for a senior dog. But dogs, especially Wires, are resilient. And they are at a stage of life that is comparable to a senior’s. Given love, understanding and care they usually appreciate a new friend and make the transition to their new home with few problems. Their needs are often simple and they are happy with a quiet and uncomplicated life. Importantly, in most cases, they have the housebreaking routine down, walk fine on leash, and are content just to be by your side.

Puppies are darling and oh so cute – especially Wire Fox puppies! They are also a lot of work! Housebreaking is time consuming and takes lots of patience. Training also takes time and sometimes significant monetary commitment if you need help with basic commands, walking on leash and behavioral issues like jumping and barking. And they can be dangerous if your mobility and quickness isn’t what it used to be!

Wires are notoriously fast! Puppies can trip you up or even knock you over! Some adopters who have preferred seniors over the years and understand their own limitations compare a puppy Wire to hyperactive grandchildren–they are best when you can choose their company and then send them home to be with their parents!

Despite all the positives a senior dog will bring to you, there may still be concerns about the length of time you will have with them. But remember, there are no guarantees as to the time we have with any dog. We can’t guarantee the time you will have, but we can guarantee love, loyalty, companionship and the mutual goal of living a good life for as long as possible. Turning down a senior dog who probably has many good years ahead may mean depriving it of the home they deserve after their years of devotion. And it may have to remain in a rescue, sharing attention with other needy dogs.

If you met a fun-loving, smart and understanding person in their senior years would you reject their friendship because of their advanced years and the attitude that you don’t want their friendship because they may die too soon? What a terrible loss for you both! Explore new worlds, new people, laughter and unique perspectives and love when adopting a senior dog.

Vet care for a senior is also a concern that is raised. All dogs require frequent vet attention. And once again there is no predictability as to particular needs. We have witnessed many young dogs with digestive problems requiring special diets and allergies requiring constant medication and baths. Often the diagnostic solutions take significant time and money to reach. With senior dogs, there may be geriatric issues but other issues, if any, will already have been identified and addressed. Geriatric aches and pains can be easily handled and dogs like us accept it and learn to live with it.

Note that whenever possible, the rescue will support senior dogs the best they can with bills or provide other resources to help.

Helping a senior adjust to a new home may be a bit easier than dealing with a puppy, but it still requires some forethought:

• Check the indoor and outdoor surroundings in order to dog proof.
• Take it gradually. Whenever possible, we try to get information about a dog’s routine and preferences. But, like us, a dog may be used to a certain routine; expectations around teaching a dog a new routine needs to be approached with understanding and patience.
• Older dogs can learn new tricks and are eager to please. A new challenge can give them a new lease on life.
• A senior’s eye sight and hearing may not be at their best so keep that in mind when acclimating them to the house.
• Put their water and food in an easily accessible place.
• In the initial days, reduce access to all areas. Even a dog who has been house trained can have an accident- especially in a new and different environment and may need to be shown the door or the doggy door.
• Be mindful of stairs and your dog’s familiarity with them and their ability to negotiate them.
• Keep food the same: use it to transition if a new food is preferred for at least ten days.

Based on our experience, adopting an older Wire can be the best mutual experience any dog owner could wish for!