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Health & Fitness

An Ode to "Old" Pets

No matter what age they are, our pets bring so much to our lives!

Bringing a fresh, new puppy or kitten into your family can be so much fun!  But, at HAWS we always like to remind people that adult pets can be just as wonderful...and your journey together so meaningful.  With age comes wisdom - for all species...

When you commit to your dog, cat or other pet for it's lifetime, guiding that pet through the senior years is inevitable.  Life with an older pet is so rewarding - whether you've been together from the beginning or just found each other later in life.

Several of my co-workers and I are on a similar "schedule" with our pets.  We all adopted our babies back in the late 90s or early 00s, so we've been watching them grow up and grow old together.  Sadly, we are also starting to see those beloved dogs and cats pass on - Mason at age 12, Belle at 16, Linx at 19.  Dozer was 12, Magnum was 11 and Bailey was 14.  While we grieve for each of them, we also know that they probably blessed our lives more than we did theirs!

Each time we lose a pet it reminds us to live more in the moment - and in our cases, especially with those pets who are still sharing our lives.  I feel gratitude for every day I still have with my Fuzzy Mutt, Freeway, who turned 15 about 2 weeks ago..and doesn't let us forget that!  Stiff and sore in the morning?  So what - it's time for a walk!  Bedtime?  No way, not while there's still squeak in that squeaky toy.  Quiet time?  Well, since you're just sitting there you may as well give me an earrub or neck scratch.

Pets bring value to our lives at any age.  If you want a jogging partner, definitely bring home an energetic pup.  And when you're looking to add a little serenity to your life, that 8-years-young cat or dog is ready and waiting.

Just don't miss a minute!  And enjoy the journey - together.

By the way - some super sweet "older" pets are waiting for homes at HAWS right now.  Like Aries the cat, age 12; Bear the MinPin, age 10 (pictured at left); Kenya the Pittie, age 6; Sebastian the cat, age 11 (pictured at top).  Stop by 7 days a week to view and adopt - we'd all love to see you!

HAWS' Viewing & Adoption Hours:
Monday - Friday, 1 - 6pm
Saturday, 11am - 4pm
Sunday, Noon - 4pm

Call and ask about any of our adoptables - our phone lines open at 9am Monday thru Saturday, and at Noon on Sunday!

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