With this weekend marking the International Day of Older Persons (Saturday 1 October) and Grandparents’ Day (Sunday 2nd October), Dogs Trust Manchester is shining a spotlight on its OAPs (Old Age Pooches) in the hope that people will open their homes as well as their hearts to an older dog.
Whilst many people often want to rehome younger dogs and puppies, older dogs have just as much love to give the right owners and these refined older pooches make the perfect canine companions for people looking to provide a cosy retirement home for them to spend their golden years in.
Carol Margieson, Assistant Manager at Dogs Trust Manchester, said:
“Sometimes older dogs can be overlooked in favour of younger pups, but they deserve just as much attention and care from new owners as their younger counterparts.
“There are lots of benefits of rehoming an Old Age Pooch. Often older dogs don’t need quite as much exercise and although they can be a little less energetic, senior canines can be just as fun and playful.
“Older dogs are more likely to be fully house-trained and, as they are older and wiser, they usually know other training basics too, but you can certainly still teach an old dog new tricks.
“They can also make the perfect napping partner and enjoy a good snooze and a snuggle in the evening”.
The top three breeds of older dogs (aged 8 and over) that were taken in across Dogs Trust between August 2021-2022 were Jack Russell Terriers, Crossbreeds and Staffordshire Bull Terriers.
At Dogs Trust Manchester these older dogs are looking for a loving new home to rest their paws in:
Ten-year-old Staffordshire Bull Terrier Butchis looking for a quiet home where he can find his paws. He can be shy when first meeting people but once he gets to know you, he’s an affectionate and loyal boy. He would love his new family to take him on short walks in quieter places to help build his confidence again. He loves to be out mooching in the garden so would love a home with his own secure garden. He would prefer to be the only pet in the home and can live with children over 14 years.
ido is a 12-year-old Siberian Husky who is still full of life! She is a favourite amongst staff for her vocal greetings and sing-songs. She absolutely loves her food, being outdoors, and meeting other dogs out and about! Kido could potentially live with another calm dog and could live with children aged 12 years and over.
If you think you could help Dogs Trust Manchester show that age is just a number by rehoming an older dog, please visit: www.dogstrust.org.uk
Over recent months, Dogs Trust has received a record number of calls from people needing to rehome their dogs in the face of the new cost of everyday living. To be there for all dogs who need help, the charity is looking for dedicated foster carers who can offer immediate support and help out with cuddles and a comfy sofa until they find their forever home. If you’re a dog lover, but not able to take on the commitment of rehoming a dog, but would be interested in fostering a golden oldie, please visit: www.dogstrust.org.uk/rehoming/fostering
