Why adopting an older dog might be right for you and your lifestyle

PORT WASHINGTON, N.Y. (FOX 5 NY) - Cookie, a 12-year-old pit bull mix, is looking for a new home.

The senior shelter dog was left abandoned after her owner passed away. Her caretakers at North Fork Animal Welfare League told FOX 5 she has been devastated since.

"This shelter, while it's very loving, and we have a lot of people that work with her, she gets a lot of treats," North Fork's Denise LeBeau said. "It's still not a home—and that's where she wants to be."

However, Cookie isn't alone. 

Senior shelter dogs are often dropped off by owners who can no longer afford to care for them or who switch up their lifestyles, according to Sean Patrick Molloy of the North Shore Animal League America. While some people are hesitant to adopt pets on the older end, most senior dogs already have basic obedience skills.

"A lot of them are experienced in homes already, they acclimate pretty well," Molloy said. "They're very comfortable."

Michael Pastore, the director of the Town of Hempstead Animal Shelter, said that older dogs are usually less rambunctious than puppies and tender loving care can make a big difference. 

"These dogs are compatible with people who have a lower energy lifestyle, something a little slower," Pastore said. "Something where they can sit around, watch a little television, and not have to worry about the dog jumping around all over the place."

Cookie's caretakers say they're shocked she hasn't been adopted yet and are going to keep fighting around the clock to find her a forever home.

For more information, you can call North Shore Animal Welfare League at 631-755-1811.