Adopting
a Senior Dog
by Boxer Rebound
Dear People Looking for Boxers,
Hi! We, the so-called "older dogs" at Boxer
Rescue, would like to bring ourselves and our situation
to your attention. We have asked the red-haired lady
to write down our thoughts and convey them to you (she
always has treats in her pocket, so we figure she must
be pretty smart). We mature adults are very aware of
all that transpires here at the kennel and we have a
bone to pick with those who come looking for a boxer
to love. Nearly always, when we hear our names suggested,
we hear, "Oh, no! We are looking for a younger
boxer," or " That boxer looks too old."
We are truly shocked, fine dogs that we all are, that
anyone would pass us by simply because we are a little
"long in the tooth".
Perhaps you are unaware of the many advantages
of having a mature boxer as a companion. Allow us to
enlighten you by offering just a few of our virtues.
Generally, we are somewhat mellower and easier to handle
than our younger counterparts. Most of us already have
better manners than these youngsters will ever have.
We know what "outside" is for - we just have
to be shown where it is and how to get there. And while
not all of us are fond of children, those who are are
less likely to knock them down or chew on them. Some
of us are even willing to share the benefit of our maturity
with younger dogs you have at home or are considering
adopting. We can be a very calming influence on youngsters,
human or canine. We view our maturity as a valuable
asset, not a detriment. Now, we have heard than many
people have concerns regarding our "life-expectancies".
Well, we have "life" and we like it a lot,
and we don't "expect" more than we deserve.
Seriously, this is an alien concept to
us, but since you are all so worried about it, we give
you our sincere promise to remain with you on this earth
for as long as caninely possible. We promise to make
excellent use of whatever time we have to provide you
with more than enough fond memories to last for your
lifetime. Anyway, don't let the gray muzzles fool you;
we still have a few boxer tricks up our sleeves and
we can still make you laugh every day. Our age makes
us no less silly, just a little bit slower. And, yes,
some of us do have some relatively minor health problems;
we think they are insignificant when weighed against
our good points. Do not misunderstand we are comfortable,
safe, and happy here. Meals are regular and the staff
are good friends to us. We simply wish to be afforded
the same considerations that are given to the younger
boxers. We, too, would like to try this "adoption"
thing they are all doing. The word "home"
does sound sweet to our old ears. Remember, it takes
time to develop the exceptional, uniquely individual
personalities that define us as boxers. You really should
take advantage of the chance to get to know us - we
are sure you'll be impressed.
Well, now that you know the facts, each
of us is looking forward to having the Rescuers pack
a suitcase with our name on it any day now. Hope to
meet you soon.
Signed,
The "Senior Citizens" of Boxer Rescue
Why Are Pets Important to Seniors?
The fact is simple. People are living
longer through improved medical treatment and preventative
care. Health professionals confirm that the human-animal
bond increases attention span, reduces social isolation
and improves physiological conditions such as lowering
blood pressure.

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