Since June this year, nearly 40 per cent of people wanting to adopt a dog of a specific age from Dogs Trust were looking for a four-legged friend under six months, compared to 10 per cent looking for a dog aged 8 and over. *
The team at the charity’s Shoreham branch are hoping that these golden oldies will buck the trend and ‘prove every dog really does have its day’.
Adel Burnett, centre manager at Dogs Trust Shoreham, 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 older dog new tricks.
“They can also make the perfect napping partner and enjoy a good snooze and a snuggle.”
If you think you can give a senior dog its forever home, read more about them below and visit: www.dogstrust.org.uk/rehoming/our-centres/shoreham.
5. Lenny - nine year old German Shepherd
Loveable Lenny is an adorable gentleman who absolutely adores his human pals. He likes to say hello to as many people as possible whilst out on his walks, so that he can receive as much fuss as people are willing to give! Whilst Lenny can be apprehensive when off-lead dogs are bounding over to him, he is happy to walk with calm dogs strolling a few metres away. He is most content with his humans by his side and especially loves to visit the beach and splash about in the water. Lenny needs to be the only pet at home and must live with adults only. A garden of his own to roam about and squeak his toys in is essential. Photo: Dogs Trust
6. Lemmy - eight-year-old crossbreed
Lemmy is an incredibly smart dog and has been making great progress with his training, so would love to find a family who are keen to continue supporting him with this. He has experienced lots of change throughout his life and tends to feel overwhelmed when things are unpredictable. Lemmy has been prescribed medication to help him manage his anxiety and this will need to be carried on in his new home. He may be eight years old, but Lemmy has the playful nature and enthusiasm of a puppy! He LOVES to play with his toys, is always keen to learn, and considers himself to be a foodie. Photo: Dogs Trust