Though she’s had a challenging past, Gypsy has blossomed into a confident and gentle companion. Her journey in our care has shown us how much life older dogs still have to offer, and she’s become a shining example of why adopting a senior dog can be such a rewarding experience. Gypsy has been spending time off shelter with one of our animal care team, Leah. As you can see from some of the photos, she’s loving some home comforts when she can get them.
Why choose an older dog like Gypsy? Here are five reasons why welcoming a golden oldie into your life can be one of the best decisions you make:
Calm and Easygoing Nature
Older dogs have left their puppy years behind, bringing a sense of calm and tranquillity to their new homes. With Gypsy, you’ll have a companion who’s content with gentle walks, quiet moments, and plenty of belly rubs, making her an ideal match for anyone seeking a relaxed, loving pet.
Eagerness to Please Senior dogs often come with the bonus of experience. They’re eager to form close bonds and, like Gypsy, thrive on affection and companionship. You won’t need to teach the basics – she already knows how to love and be loved in return.
Established Personality With an older dog, you know what you’re getting. Gypsy’s sweet and gentle character is well-established, so you can see her temperament and trust that she’ll be a steady companion.
Less Demanding – Senior dogs tend to be less demanding when it comes to exercise and playtime. They’re happy with shorter walks and more rest, which can fit perfectly into a quieter lifestyle.
Instant Connection Older dogs tend to settle quickly into their new homes, ready to be your loyal companion from day one. Gypsy is a testament to this, having blossomed into a role model at our shelter, offering guidance and companionship to other dogs.
At Little Valley Animal Shelter, we know how special it is to give a golden oldie a second chance. That’s why we offer our Golden Oldies Veterinary Support Scheme (GOVS), designed to make caring for senior pets easier by covering age-related veterinary needs like arthritis or thyroid medication.
Adopting a senior dog like Gypsy brings countless rewards: a loving companion, peaceful days, and the satisfaction of knowing you’ve given a beautiful dog the retirement they deserve. If you’re ready to offer Gypsy—or one of our other golden oldies—a home, fill out a Perfect Match form today. You won’t just be adopting a pet—you’ll be welcoming a heart full of love into your life!
RSPCA Little Valley Animal Shelter
Black Hat Lane
Bakers Hill
Exeter, EX2 9TA
