OCALA, FL (352today.com) – Some wonderful cats and dogs would be forever thankful if you would adopt them from the Marion County Animal Shelter (MCAS).

The shelter is open today, Wednesday, Nov. 22, until 5 p.m. It’ll be closed Thursday and Friday. It will reopen on Saturday, Nov. 25, from 10 a.m. to 5 p.m.

The month of November is “Adopt a Senior Pet” month. MCAS tells us approximately 10% of their shelter population are seniors. Fees are waived this month for all pets over seven years old.

MCAS says senior pets are not necessarily more difficult to adopt out. “People in the animal care industry pay special attention to pets in this category as they may need more comfort than a shelter can offer,” said a shelter spokesperson. “We all know that the aging process can put extra strain on the body, so we notice that our seniors feel that, and we truly want them to be as comfortable as they can be every day.”

What are the advantages of adopting a senior dog or cat?
According to MCAS, “Senior dogs are often already housetrained, know basic commands, tend to be less demanding, and are easier to take for leisurely walks. They are a great option for first-time pet owners.”

The shelter says senior cats relish in the coziness of a warm lap and are usually low maintenance. “Cat purrs are known to be stress reducers in humans – who doesn’t need more of that?” said MCAS.

The shelter staff says, “The love shared with an older pet can be one of the most rewarding feelings in someone’s life. Older pets are great listeners! Share with them your woes, old stories, or your opinions of just about anything.”

Any special considerations when adopting a senior dog or cat?
MCAS says for many senior pets, a safe and comfortable environment is ideal. For example, toddlers and senior pets are not typically a great match.

Many older pets need less supervision, so they can be a wonderful companion to a working family or anyone who doesn’t want to or can’t spend a lot of time training a pet. Older pets spend a great deal of time sleeping and seem to prefer to be resting alone in a nice home than in a shelter.

TAKE ME HOME THIS WEEK – NOVEMBER 22, 2023
None of this week’s featured pets are “senior pets.” But, they’re ready to give you their unconditional love.

Mars has superpowers. This three-year-old boy can make almost anyone happy. He is silly, joyful, and will work for treats- his absolute favorite are warm doughnuts. Courtesy: MCAS
Seven-month-old Tally is looking for employment. This girl is a stealthy huntress and is a part of our Working Whiskers program, which pairs cats with people in need of rodent control. If you have a barn or business and prefer the natural remedy for pest prevention, Tally is your girl! Courtesy: MCAS
Jacob is a fun-loving, three-year-old guy. He’s eager to see what the next chapter of his life may look like. He hopes it’s with a family who smiles often and lets him feel like one of the kids. Courtesy: MCAS

You can view more sweet animals available for adoption on the Marion County Animal Services website and Facebook page.