PHOENIX -- Animal shelter workers say they see it all the time. The dog with a little gray in his muzzle passed over for the playful puppy clamoring all over his siblings. Dignified cats passed over for cuddly kittens.
While puppies and kittens are certainly more popular, they're also a lot more work, and shelter workers at Maricopa County Animal Care and Control are making a push this month for families to adopt "senior" dogs and cats.
November is Adopt-a-Senior-Pet Month, and the shelter will offer dogs over seven years old for adoption for just $50. Cats over seven cat be adopted for $25. The adoption fee covers spay or neuter surgery, dog license and rabies vaccination.
Aprille Hollis, with MCACC, says senior animals make great pets.
Most are well past their chewing and teething phase. Most are potty trained. Most understand basic commands like "no." And most are already used to a family environment and simply want to be loved.
Hollis says many senior animals have experienced loss in their past and will form stronger bonds.
According to Hollis, people often skip senior pets believing they'll face higher medical bills, but she says, it's not true.
Puppies and kittens need a series of shots and surgery, and all pets need annual exams, shots, along with preventive medication and dental care.
If you'd like to adopt a senior animal, you can go to
http://www.pets.maricopa.gov/ or call 602-506-7387.
