I write this week about older dogs and cats, because sadly they are seen as less appealing and so can take longer to be re-homed, writes Jacqui Budd for St Giles Animal Welfare.

Many people considering adoption focus on young animals, despite having busy lifestyles.

Of course, it is great that these people are choosing to adopt, but not all lifestyles suit a young, energetic and demanding pet.

Many older dogs and cats come into the centre because their owners are unwell and unable to care for them anymore, or have, sadly, died; or as a result of a marriage breakup.

It must be so traumatic for them to find themselves in a strange environment, away from the humans that have cared for them for years.

Please don’t overlook them: owning an older pet has so many advantages.

These animals are generally already toilet trained, used to travelling in a car and living in a home environment.

They will of course need exercise but a lot less than energetic pups.

They are fully grown, so no surprising growth spurts!

Older pets can make ideal companions for people that are unable to get out and about much.

They are often calmer, don’t get up to mischief and are happy to sit quietly in human company rather than demanding attention.

Ideal for older people looking for companionship.

Their personalities have developed, whereas a pup or kitten's personality is developing.

Older animals tend to have calmer natures.

Please don’t overlook these golden oldies; they have a lot to offer.

Meet Samson.

Samson is a handsome middle-aged boy who is looking for a new home where he can live out his twilight years in comfort.

An Alsatian of seven years, he was brought into the centre as a stray.

He is a very loyal loving dog once he forms a bond with you, and that will then last forever.

He enjoys going out for walks and having playtime in the paddocks, but most of all he loves playing with his favourite toy.

Samson needs to be the only pet in the household and could live with children over 16.