There are an increasing number of mature pets finding their way into American's hearts and homes. As people become more aware of the joys of older pets, adult animals are getting more attention from potential adopters - and for good reason.

Love those new shoes? ...

So will a new puppy. Sure, puppies, kittens and other young animals are adorable. But just like humans, 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 care that younger animals require. An older dog is a much better option if you work long hours, or are unable to give the amount of exercise and stimulation that a younger dog would need.

• Typically, the older dogs are already housebroken.

• Older cats are likely to be "litter trained".

• Older Dogs have passed the "destructive chewing phase".

• Older cats and dogs have developed the personality that you will be living with. A puppy or kitten is still growing and developing. They can turn out quite differently than expected.

Don't misunderstand: Although older pets may be less demanding, that's not to say adult animals don't require you to be responsible and devoted -all animals require a lifelong commitment!

Bonding ...

It's something that shelter workers hear over and over again from people who want to adopt a puppy or kitten: "I want a pet who will bond with my family" or "I want a pet who can grow up with my kids." 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.
An adult animal that is given a 'second chance - with a loving, adoptive family - is very likely to become a trusting, loyal companion for many years.
In addition, adult animals are often a more practical pet for families with children. Bringing together young animals and kids can be problematic, as puppies and kittens sometimes exhibit playful nipping and clawing, which can injure or frighten children. And kids can inadvertently be too rough with young animals.
Furthermore, parents of young children already have their hands full; instead of adding the burden of training a puppy or kitten to their already loaded schedules, a mature pet can bring the love and bonding that a family is looking for, with out the added work. Adopting a mature pet who interacts well with children can be the best option.

"Oh! He is soooooooo cute ..."

While adorable kittens or pint-sized pooches have the power to seduce just about any animal-lover, it's important to remember that baby animals quickly become adults. Before giving in to the pull of a young animal, adopters need to remember that every animal up for adoption used to be a baby - and that adult animals can be every bit as sweet, cute and playful as their younger counterparts.

What you see is what you get ...

Anyone who's ever observed an infant and wondered what he would be like as an adult knows that it would be hard to guess. In the same way, it's hard to determine what kind of characteristics a puppy or kitten will have until the animal is an adult. In contrast, it's much easier for potential adopters to get a sense of an mature animal's qualities - including size, temperament, and personality - and to make a more informed decision based on their expectations.

More and more animal-lovers are finding out that their perfect pet isn't a puppy or kitten but an adult animal.
In the process, they're learning just how easy it is to teach an older pet new tricks - like showing their best friend how to love again.