Adoption organizations may be able to help you find a loving, well-behaved, gentle and housetrained mature animal. Some of these pets are already well socialized to other pets or children. An older animal, like comfortable slippers, can be an easy and welcomed fit. Experienced pet-owners, who have the background and personality to provide good homes, might want to look into adopting a special needs pet. The right people can truly enjoy the special rewards of living with an animal that has a disability.
Some pets can cope well with loss of vision, or hearing, or some kinds of orthopedic problems.
Adopting an animal with a chronic illness, or an older pet that naturally needs more health care, demands that prospective owners be completely honest with themselves about the higher level of commitment that these pets require. In addition to some soul-searching, it is very important to get your veterinarian's assistance with any adoption. If you have questions about a species, breed, or medical condition, your veterinary hospital can help you find useful information. Once you have found a pet you are interested in adopting, make sure to have your veterinarian examine the prospective pet before the adoption is finalized. A good physical exam, and in some cases, diagnostic tests, may be necessary to accurately assess an animal's condition.