While November can be a tough month for Montana’s senior citizens with winter on the way, it is easy to forget that some other seniors need help as well.

The Flathead County Animal Shelter is running, through the Northwest Montana Humane Society, a special campaign for the month to help get senior cats and dogs adopted.

“There are lots of nice senior pets,” said shelter director Cliff Bennett. “They are beyond all that puppyhood and are calm, house-trained and loving.”

Senior pets, according to Bennett, are typically well-mannered and enjoy being near their owners without causing trouble.

Senior Pet Adoption Month is put on yearly by the Humane Society, and the Flathead shelter thought it would be a good idea to help its older cats and dogs find loving homes.

For a senior dog, the cost of adopting with full licensing, vaccinations and chipping is just $45. Cost is $25 for a senior cat. Puppies and kittens, by contrast, go for $95 and $45, respectively.

Bennett said a senior pet isn’t a bad match for a senior owner.

“Most seniors don’t want to meet the energy of a puppy,” he said. “Usually the senior pets have been around people and are more adaptable to a different environment.”

Calls come in several times a week looking for puppies or kittens, but far less often for senior pets.

The animal shelter is located at 225 Cemetery Road and is open Tuesday through Saturday. For more information, call 752-1310.

Reporter Ryan Murray may be reached at 758-4439 or at rmurray@dailyinterlake.com.