Why a senior dog
The best dogs are sometimes the oldest.
Peace of Mind Dog Rescue exists for the dogs other shelters overlook: the gray-muzzled, the slow-walking, the deeply loyal. Here is why a senior dog may be the right dog, and why supporting them matters.
Senior dogs and senior people, together.
Founded in 2009 on California's Central Coast, POMDR helps senior dogs find loving homes and helps senior people keep the dogs they love. Older dogs are at the highest risk in shelters and the least likely to be chosen. We changed that math for our community, one dog at a time.
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They are already who they are
A senior dog's size, temperament and energy are settled. What you see is who you get: no guessing, no surprises as they grow.
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Calm company, gentle pace
Many older dogs are house-trained, leash-mannered, and happy with a short walk and a long nap. They fit a calmer life beautifully.
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Gratitude you can feel
Dogs who have waited the longest tend to bond the deepest. A second chance late in life is not lost on them.
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If it ever does not work out, they come back to us
We have a lifetime commitment to all the dogs who come into our care. An adoption that does not work out is not held against anyone. The dog comes back to POMDR, and we find the right next home.
Honest about the health, and the cost.
Each dog in our program receives a thorough veterinary exam upon intake. The senior dogs also get a senior blood panel and, in many cases, a dental cleaning and any necessary extractions. We share each dog's health honestly, so you choose with open eyes.
Adoption fees range from $155 to $305, depending on the age and health of the dog and the expected future medical expenses that will be taken on by the adopter.
Caring for the people too.
Senior dogs are often surrendered for heartbreaking reasons. A guardian enters care, a health crisis hits, or the bills become impossible. The dog did nothing wrong, and neither did the person.
Our Helping Paw program keeps senior people and their dogs at home together: walking, rides to the vet or groomer, help with a vet bill, dog food and supplies, and a foster home while you are in the hospital.
When staying together is not possible, we welcome the dog into our care and find the right next home. No one is judged. Everyone is helped.
Common worries, answered.
"A senior dog will not be around long."
Many dogs labeled senior have years of good life left. We share each dog's health honestly so you can choose with open eyes.
"Older dogs cannot bond with a new person."
They bond quickly and fully. A settled dog often attaches faster than a distracted puppy.
"The vet bills will be overwhelming."
We are transparent about each dog's health and discuss with the adopter the ability to handle future medical bills.
They said it best.
Getting to watch an animal go from neglected and…just plain sad to enjoying his new life is just incredibly rewarding in a way that's very different from raising a puppy and molding him in your own image.
They appreciate the smallest gestures (cuddles, a nap on the bed, a brisk walk) because they had to 'go without' at some point. It makes them, and more importantly us humans, appreciate every little thing, a bit more!
Sasha was the first senior dog that I adopted. Though I had fostered many dogs before her, Sasha chose me. While I thought I might get 4-5 years with her, she is still healthy and happy over 5 years later. Having a senior dog makes me cherish the time that I have with my pets even more, knowing that our time together is limited.
Senior dogs have more 'life experiences under their collar,' and because of that they are more appreciative of having a loving forever home. I have adopted many, and their wisdom and love has enhanced my life in many ways.
Senior dogs are usually easier to bring in to your home. They are potty trained and [it's] so nice to have another old lady to keep me company.
I adopted Disney aka Joe and all I can say is he is the best thing that has happened to me in a long time. Everything you said about older dogs is true: they are pretty much trained when you get them and he is been such a wonderful addition to my life and even though I've had him a little over two months he has become my best little buddy and we are so bonded you would not believe it. So I want everybody out there to know this and to give these senior dogs a home. I will be forever grateful!