The Older Dog Owner

As a dog/business owner who focuses on breeding and training a variety of breeds, I get several calls during puppy season inquiring about the temperaments, genetics, trainability etc., of dogs.  However, I don’t usually get the question “what if I can’t take care of the dog? or, if I become ill or incapacitated?”

I have number of retired people contact me who have either lost a dog that they have had for several years, or are planning to retire in the next few months, and desire to have a new companion to travel with.  This year, I will be turning 60 and have begun to consider this for myself.  Is this an uncomfortable topic to consider? The answer is yes, but it needs to be discussed.

Most of us (adults), create living wills, or wills to determine who should inherit our personal belongings, and pets are often not considered.  We read about the pets who inherit vast wealth from their owners once passed.  This topic should not just be considered by the rich, but the everyday pet owner.

Do you have to leave thousands or millions to your pets to give this consideration? Of course not, most of us don’t have immeasurable wealth to leave behind for our pets.  However, we should consider a responsible, trustworthy person to call upon in the eventuality any of us are faced with this situation.   

There are also options in case you don’t have anyone in your life you can depend on to take your pet(s).  There are organizations that offer sanctuary to pet owners that may need someone to care for their pets, once they are unable to continue their care.

In a later blog post, I will offer other ideas that may be a benefit to you.

Until then, Happy Tails