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Adopting an Older Yorkie as Your First Dog? I'm wondering if it would be a foolish idea to adopt an older yorkie as my first dog. He is 11 years old, seems rather energetic, but has cataracts. He was given to the shelter when his owner died a few days ago. I am concerned about adopting a dog this old, because I'm afraid the medical expenses will be off the charts. I will be going off to college in a year, and I'm not sure how I would feel about my mom getting attached to a dog and then having it die with her. Talk about an empty nest.... So my questions are: 1. How long have your yorkies lived? How long do you think he would realistically live? 2. Is it really bad that he has cataracts? Will this pose a huge problem? 3. What are the typical ailments and expenses as they get old? Thank you all so much. You have been a great help so far in helping me choose. |
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Typical ailments can vary and cataracts are quite common, but as they age they may often suffer kidney failure. Some can get bladder stones. It is like trying to look into a crystal ball. You can't do it. If you are willing to take on these type of expenses, then go for it. Otherwise, I would leave him for someone that is willing and able to give him the quality of life he deserves. Good luck in your decision. |
I know, it's a hard call. I guess most older dogs end up being a great expense. I wouldn't want to get a dog that suddenly falls apart. |
Older dogs may or may not be a big expense. I would like to point out however, young dogs or puppies can be a heck of a large expense in Vet bills so if money is a big issue, you might want to think twice about a dog nowadays at all. Vet costs have risen dramatically. A puppy is possible to get Pet Insurance and there are several plans. That will be a monthly expense right off the top. I sold an 8 months old boy some years ago, he was just too small for show, I had him neutered and a nice couple came along and got him for pet. Two weeks later he jumped off teh arm of the recliner broke a front leg. Now a broken leg can easily run $2000 in Vet bills. Expenses can involve illness or accident. Once you leave for college leave it up to your mom whether or not to get a dog if she wants one. Many do experience empty nest syndrom when the last kid leaves. |
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It is a hard to advise about elderly rescues. My Noah lived to be almost 19. He never had a serious health issue until he was 17 (cancer). (If I would have died, I would have hoped that someone would take him and make his last years as comfortable and happy as possible. I do have provisions in my will for the dogs and their care.) He had cataracts and lost most of his hearing. I honestly do not think an elderly dog would make a good first dog for a young college student. My Noah grew old with me. Our life was pretty mellow and routine. He was perfectly content to eat, pottie then sleep on my lap. I still miss him. Sorry for the digression. Anyway I think an elderly dog would do better with someone who has taken care of elderly dogs before. Hope you find the perfect match. |
No, it's perfectly alright. I appreciate the digression. lol You are probably right in that he would do well with someone who has experienced older dogs before. I know an elderly yorkie who has cataracts, rotting teeth, etc. It makes me sad to see him grow old, but it is good to know he is in the good hands of a loving owner. That's what I would want. I would love for us to be the family that takes this dog in for its final years, but I would be scared of the potential expenses: cancer, kidney failure, etc. :( But my god he is a cutie. Apparently he is healthy enough to be very sexually active. lmao They actually have to neuter this 11 year old boy because he came to the shelter and humped every pillow in sight. |
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