Never too old to Learn!

Many older dogs are placed in rescue because their owners have sadly passed away and no provision has been made for them in the owners will. Relatives rarely want to take on an elderly dog purely because of cost and lifestyle. It is difficult to obtain insurance and very often the cost is prohibitive as the dog may be on expensive medication.

We recently had such a case where the sudden death of the owner left a 9 year old bitch homeless who ended up in the Police kennels as there was nowhere else for her. She was overweight, worried and wondered what had happened to her world. It was heartbreaking to see her standing in the kennel run wistfully looking and hoping her owner would appear.

Along comes a family who love the oldies and without giving a second thought take her home to be a companion to their existing 9 year old dog. Obviously careful introductions were made to ensure that the existing dog was happy with the situation. Within 24 hours she had settled into a routine and gradually over the days her worried look vanished. She is now a very happy little girl again with a new family and a new life to look forward to.

Like most rescue organisations we find that the older dog fits in very neatly with our senior population who have perhaps had a dog for many years and are now bereft because it has passed away. These older dogs can give great comfort to older generation and fill a huge gap. Labrador Lifeline Trust will always match a dog to a home and ensure that the adopter can handle the new incumbent. We help out with medication where it is needed so as not to place a financial burden on them. Can you teach an older dog new tricks – yes you can. With time and patience an older dog will readily accept your way of life if treated kindly and the art of gentle persuasion is used.

Like everything there is always a downside to taking on an oldie and that is the realisation that dogs do not live forever. Some go to homes for end of life care and the families that take on these dogs are the salt of the earth. I know only too well how difficult this can be as Bramley, the LLT office dog is now nearly 13 years old and he can be a DOG (demanding old gentleman). The barking has suddenly started for little or no reason except to demand his meals or want help to get on his bed. His sight is going and he suffers from urine incontinence every so often but in many other ways he brings joy and happiness to the family. He has a good life and is still imparting his great wisdom and life skills to his younger brother. Would I do this again the answer is YES every time old dogs deserve a second chance.

Anne Carter info@labrador-lifeline.com. www.labrador-lifeline.com