Homelessness is a sad and ongoing issue for elderly pets. For reasons not their fault, older dogs find themselves in this predicament due to their owners passing away, or having to move into assisted living circumstances, whether it be a nursing home, or a family member’s home, where dogs are not permitted.

Then there are those folks whose lifestyles have unwillingly changed and pets no longer fit into the new settings. All are sad truths.

Rescue groups and shelters have the challenging task of taking in older dogs with fewer possibilities of finding homes than for younger dogs.

Growing older has not diminished my love for animals, but it has limited how I am able to work with them. My own physical abilities and energy levels are declining. What to do?

Knowing my limitations, I know that an older, less active dog would fit my lifestyle and abilities.

The time came when I was ready.

Not long after, Oliver came into my life and I have not regretted my decision.

So, who wants to adopt an older dog? Well, I do and I did. Although fewer in numbers, there are those people who do realize the benefits and joys of adopting an older dog.

There are many senior citizens, like me, who are fortunate to still have good health and live active, albeit slower paced lives.

Are you one of these lucky seniors? Do you love dogs? Have you considered how an older dog might fit into your life and enrich it with the presence of a grateful elder dog for you to love and in return, to receive back devoted companionship? There are many of us and many of them.

Allow me to introduce one such elder dog named Hope.

Hope has been in the foster care of ElderDog Canada, for what seems like forever, but according to her foster mom, “she hasn’t given up, she knows you’re out there somewhere!”

Hope “enjoys long drives and walks…maybe a best friend for the other amazing dog or dogs in your life (just no cats, please).

This sweet, 10-year-old, healthy beagle mix girl is about 50 pounds and would be best suited to a home with no cats or small critters and a person (or family) who is home with her most of the time. She would love a fenced backyard but would also be happy with regular walks.” These words are from the foster who knows this elder dog so well.

Hope is being fostered in Dartmouth, NS.

If you’re interested in adopting Hope, please contact Sarah at dartmoutheastrehome[at]gmail.com

As they wait, maybe even wish, above all, they hope.

(Diana O’Connell is an ElderDog Canada foster home for palliative dogs. She also adopted her beautiful Oliver two years ago. He makes her get out for healthy walks in nature. You can reach her at: dianaoconnell[at]hotmail.com)