When Jaz and his wife were ready to add a new feline to their family after their cat passed away, they knew two things. “We believe in adopting more so than buying a pet, and the Dumb Friends League was a no-brainer for us,” said Jaz. The couple also knew they wanted to adopt an older cat. “My wife and I decided that when we lost our cat, we wanted to get an older cat because most people don’t give chances to older pets.”

At 13 years old, sweet Tally definitely fell into the “older pet” category, and when the trio met, it was as if Tally knew just what the couple wanted.

Originally, Jaz and his wife came to the League to look at another cat, and Tally happened to be in the same cat colony. Jaz recalled seeing Tally on the League’s adoption page, but he thought his picture made him look, well, angry. Let’s face it, when you reach a certain age, you’ve earned the right to decline photo opportunities, right? “In the cat colony, Tally came over to us and just wanted pets and nothing more,” said Jaz. “He was so friendly. He chose us.”

Tally, who recently passed away at 19 years old, enjoyed a more leisurely lifestyle as he matured—one that included food, lots of pets and naps, but it wasn’t unusual for him to play and dash around. Tally was surrounded by love and wonderful care, but Jaz was quick to say it went both ways, and Tally gave the couple as much love as he received.

“I think people should really consider adopting older pets because they have so much to offer with love and companionship,” said Jaz. “I feel like when an older pet is placed in a loving home, it gives them more life.”

Don’t let grey muzzles or a calmer demeanor deter you; adopting older pets comes with advantages over their younger counterparts that you might not think about. For example, older pets:

  • Tend to be a bit calmer.
  • Need less attention but can still be quite playful.
  • Come with some basic training under their belts . . . err, collars.
  • Can still learn new tricks!
  • Have come into their own personality-wise.

Jaz believes that finding a loving home isn’t just for the animals; it’s for their humans, as well. “Be patient with your pet. It’s new and scary for them, and no one can explain their situation to them other than with the language of love. Giving not just older cats, but any animal, the opportunity to live happily is the best feeling.”

We couldn’t agree more, Jaz. No matter their age, older pets can bring joy and unconditional love to your home . . . and, if you’re lucky, plenty of snuggles! Visit ddfl.org today to find your new companion.