Longtime Senior Shelter Dog Is Hoping for the Perfect Family To Call His Own

Senior dogs deserve loving homes to grow old in, just like every other pet. And, they also deserve to know how it feels to leave the animal shelter and run into the arms of a family who'll love and care for them until the end.

One senior Hound Dog named JP has been in the Bideawee Animal Shelter in New York City since 2019 and this sweet boy desperately needs a home to call his own. Will you be his hero?

JP is described as a total sweetheart who loves long walks with his people, trails, couch surfing, and yummy snacks (my kind of guy!), and he's irresistible with big, floppy ears, heart-melting eyes, and calm demeanor.

As an older boy, JP is looking for someone to to rewrite his story. This adorable 10-year-old Hound is in search of " a patient, loving home , with no young children or other animals, that will help him to feel comfortable and safe, as we all deserve to," the Bideawee Animal Shelter says.

"As if being wonderful isn't enough, thanks to a generous donation by one of his many fans, JP’s adoption fee has already been covered. Hill’s Pet Nutrition will also be offering a year’s worth of Science Diet Senior Vitality dog food for JP to help him live happy and healthy in his new home. Now, all he needs is a loving family!"

This gentle Hound is also a member of Bideawee’s Oh Behave! Training Academy to show his new family his real potential. Don't let JP's older age stop you from giving him your heart—he has a lot of love to give.

"We know that with a little guidance they can become the best friend you've always wanted," the site adds. "And, though JP is already the complete package, Bideawee will be sponsoring a free four-week training package with their partner GoodPup, an organization with a long-standing history of working with dogs and dog parents to produce happy and well-socialized four-legged family members, to ensure he finds the perfect home."

Related: 'Happiest Dog at the Shelter' Gets Rescued and His Joy is Absolutely Infectious

Adopting or Fostering a Senior Dog

Unfortunately, shelter animals count data shows the length of stay in shelters for large and senior dogs has doubled since 2019, according to the 2024 Hill’s Pet Nutrition State of Shelter Pet Adoption Report . And these dogs are often overlooked for younger, smaller dogs even though there are far more benefits to adopting senior dogs .

If you give a senior pup like JP a chance, there are a few things to remember when bringing them home.

Dr. Karen Shenoy, US Chief Veterinary Officer at Hill’s Pet Nutrition, tells ParadePets to stick by the The “3-3-3 Rule,” which outlines the three stages of adjustment that a new pet will go through and how to best support them throughout this period.

• In the first 3 days, your pet will be getting used to being in a new environment. You might notice your pet exhibiting signs of anxiety, such as pacing, panting or not eating. During this time, ensure you are providing your pet with a comfortable space and maintaining consistency wherever you can, such as feeding them the same food they ate in the shelter.
  
  
• During the first 3 weeks, your pet will start adjusting to their new home. Consistency is key. Establishing specific times for feeding, bathroom breaks and regular exercise can create a routine that helps pets feel more confident and secure. During this time, you can also start socializing your dog and working on basic training commands.
  
  
• By the 3-month mark, your pet will start to feel at home. They will likely be more comfortable with new experiences and environments where they can meet other pets and people. These experiences should deepen the bond between you and your pet and provide a solid foundation of trust.

If you're not ready to adopt, consider fostering. Bringing a large or senior dog into your home not only helps to socialize them, but it’s typically less stressful than the shelter setting where they can't fully be themselves. It's a win-win!

JP may have a few years on him, but he's the total package. If you think you're a contact the Bideawee Animal Shelter and apply to adopt JP today!