Any shelter will tell you, puppies get adopted in a heartbeat.
Senior pets, though? These golden oldies are often the gentlest beasts and loyal to a fault, but they are among the hardest to find homes for.
And Maxi knows that wait all too well.
Meet Maxi: 11 years young and still waiting
“Meet Maxi, a beautiful cinnamon-brindle girl who has been waiting ever so patiently for her forever family,” says TEARS Animal Rescue.
Maxi arrived at TEARS in February 2021 after her family could no longer care for her.
She was born in January 2015, making her 11 years old now, and she has spent more than three years waiting for a home.
“Being surrendered was confusing and frightening, and she can still be a little unsure when meeting new people,” says TEARS. “But give her time, respect her boundaries, and let her know she is safe, and you’ll discover the gentle, laid-back lady underneath.”
That’s the thing about seniors. They’re not rude. They’re not aloof.
They’ve had their world turned upside down and sometimes need a moment to trust again.
What does Maxi want from her new home?
It’s simple.
“Maxi dreams of a quieter life where she can enjoy leisurely strolls, the occasional happy gambol and then curl up somewhere cosy and comfortable beside her favourite humans. She isn’t looking for a busy household or a canine companion; she simply wants people to call her own.”
And yes, age has brought some creaky bits.
“Age has brought a little arthritis and a cruciate issue, both lovingly managed with medication and a supplemented diet. But Maxi still has so much love to give.”
But, as TEARS adds: “She is fiercely loyal, wonderfully sweet and ready to spend her golden years surrounded by kindness.”
Maxi is at TEARS in Cape Town and would love a quiet adult home where she can be your one-and-only.
The joy of loving a senior pet
If you are planning to adopt a senior like Maxi, or your own baby is getting a little grey around the muzzle, it’s important to remember that pets’ needs change as they age.
Here’s what TEARS’ veterinary team wants every senior pet parent to know.
1. Keep them moving, just more gently
“Senior pets may experience arthritis, joint pain, muscle loss, reduced stamina or changes in vision and hearing. Swap long walks and high-impact activities for shorter, gentler walks and play sessions, allowing your pet to set the pace and take plenty of breaks. Exercise should be adapted to their abilities rather than stopped altogether.”
The key is adapting their activity as their needs change rather than assuming getting older means giving it up completely.
2. Watch the food bowl
“Ageing can affect a pet’s metabolism, activity levels and nutritional requirements. A balanced diet appropriate for their individual needs can help maintain a healthy weight and support their overall wellbeing. Older pets can gain weight more easily, while unexplained weight loss should always be discussed with a veterinarian.”
Making mealtimes easier matters too.
“Senior cats may find jumping to elevated food bowls difficult so keep food and water easily accessible at floor level. If your pet struggles with hard pellets, dental problems may be making eating uncomfortable. Speak to your veterinarian about softer food or other suitable options.
3. Treats still count!
Getting older doesn’t mean the treats have to disappear.
“Senior pets can absolutely enjoy treats but keep them in moderation, particularly if your pet is less active.
4. Know when to call the vet
Pay attention to changes in your senior pet rather than simply putting everything down to age.
“Most importantly, watch for changes in movement, appetite, weight, breathing or behaviour. If your senior pet appears to be in pain, unusually tired or reluctant to move, consult your veterinarian.”
Growing older is a natural part of life, but with a little extra care, our senior pets can continue to enjoy their golden years.
And for Maxi, those golden years are still waiting to be spent with people she can finally call her own.
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