Arnell Memorial Humane Society
PO Box 314
185 Griffin St. E
Amery, WI 54001
715-268-7387
Puppies and kittens are adorable, but like their human counterparts, these babies require an extensive commitment of time and energy from their guardians. For many Americans, busy schedules and work commitments prevent them from being able to provide the kind of round-the-clock care a younger pet requires. Mature dogs fit much better into a busy lifestyle. They don't need as much exercise and stimulation as the younger puppy does. Typically, older dogs are already housebroken and have passed the destructive chewing phase. At the shelter we hear over and over again from people wanting to adopt a puppy or kitten, "I want a pet to grow up with my kids." They hold their three month old child in their arms as the rambunctious puppy thrashes and nips at the child in puppy fashion. They are cute but oh the problems that can arise. The truth is that forming a strong connection with a pet has little to do with the animal's age at the time of adoption. As a general rule, if a child is under six years of age, it's best to adopt a dog that is over 2 years old. Puppies require a lot of time, patience, training and supervision that a parent is already giving to their small child. Puppies have sharp teeth and claws which inadvertently injure small children and will scare them when this unwanted rough play takes place. In turn children are likely to be too rough with young animals and the puppy suffers as well. When the pup returns the rough play it is learning a dangerous lesson; that it is okay to tackle and chew on the child. Adult dogs require less time and attention once they've adjusted to a family and household routine. It's hard to determine what kind of characteristics a puppy will have until the pup is an adult. In contrast, it's much easier for adopters to get a sense of a mature animal's qualities including size, temperament and personality. Older dogs are instant companions, ready for hiking, car trips and sleeping quietly through the night. Adopting an older dog is a great way to add a loving companion to your home and accept the rewards of showing compassion to the shelter dog that is overlooked. Essie is one such dog; looking for a home to strut her stuff and reward you with kisses.
Puppies and kittens are adorable, but like their human counterparts, these babies require an extensive commitment of time and energy from their guardians. For many Americans, busy schedules and work commitments prevent them from being able to provide the kind of round-the-clock care a younger pet requires. Mature dogs fit much better into a busy lifestyle. They don't need as much exercise and stimulation as the younger puppy does. Typically, older dogs are already housebroken and have passed the destructive chewing phase. At the shelter we hear over and over again from people wanting to adopt a puppy or kitten, "I want a pet to grow up with my kids." They hold their three month old child in their arms as the rambunctious puppy thrashes and nips at the child in puppy fashion. They are cute but oh the problems that can arise. The truth is that forming a strong connection with a pet has little to do with the animal's age at the time of adoption. As a general rule, if a child is under six years of age, it's best to adopt a dog that is over 2 years old. Puppies require a lot of time, patience, training and supervision that a parent is already giving to their small child. Puppies have sharp teeth and claws which inadvertently injure small children and will scare them when this unwanted rough play takes place. In turn children are likely to be too rough with young animals and the puppy suffers as well. When the pup returns the rough play it is learning a dangerous lesson; that it is okay to tackle and chew on the child. Adult dogs require less time and attention once they've adjusted to a family and household routine. It's hard to determine what kind of characteristics a puppy will have until the pup is an adult. In contrast, it's much easier for adopters to get a sense of a mature animal's qualities including size, temperament and personality. Older dogs are instant companions, ready for hiking, car trips and sleeping quietly through the night. Adopting an older dog is a great way to add a loving companion to your home and accept the rewards of showing compassion to the shelter dog that is overlooked. Essie is one such dog; looking for a home to strut her stuff and reward you with kisses. 
