Cheese, wine and, in most cases, even people get better with age. The same can be said of pets. An older pet is typically more settled and better equipped to make a seamless transition into becoming the newest member of your family.

Raising a puppy or kitten requires work, and a lot of it. Most of our daily lives are busy with work, family commitments and daily chores. Our hectic schedules may not allow us to accommodate the frequent potty breaks every puppy needs on its way to becoming housetrained.

Kittens require endless hours of socialization and handling on their way to becoming affectionate and confident cats. Older cats or dogs that likely have house manners, energy enough not to be a burden on your daily routine and boat loads of love left to give are waiting in every shelter and rescue group in our area.

Where will you be in your golden years? Surrounded by family, friends and loved ones, it is hoped. The APS of Orange County believes that older dogs and cats deserve the same retirement. Don’t you?

To view some of the older companion animals waiting for a family, visit www.animalprotectionsociety.org or call 919-304-2300.

Heather Brown is director of development & public relations for the Animal Protection Society of Orange County.