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Senior Dogs Shine at Barkley Park this Adopt a Senior Pet Month

Written by Australian Dog Lover - 0 Comments
A happy senior dog named Darcie, a golden 'silver fox lady,' sits on a deck at Barkley Park with two smaller dog friends (a Westie and a Dachshund) to promote Adopt a Senior Pet Month.


A Quiet Kind of Joy

This Adopt a Senior Pet Month, Barkley Park is celebrating the gentle hearts and steady souls of senior dogs, reminding everyone that age brings not only wisdom but warmth, calm, and connection.

While puppies often steal the spotlight, older dogs bring a quiet kind of joy. Their patience, affection, and gratitude can transform a home, and at Barkley Park, they’re proof that love only deepens with time.

Meet Darcie, the Silver Fox Lady

One of those dogs is Darcie, a long-time Barkley Park regular with a past that’s a bit of a mystery. Even her family doesn’t know much about her life before she was rescued, but Darcie has shown that when an older dog is given a second chance, it doesn’t mean slowing down. It means starting fresh.

She may be one of the oldest pups in the courtyard, but you’d never guess it from the way she plays. 
Darcie loves a good chase and a belly rub, then takes her well-earned breaks by following staff around like a shadow or curling up for a nap in an inconvenient spot (she is currently taking a liking to the doorway!). 

Her family affectionately call her their “silver fox lady,” and she’s become a gentle leader in the yard.

Setting the Tone: Calm Monday Sessions

Darcie, the senior dog, sits calmly in the center of a group of six resting dogs at Barkley Park, illustrating the relaxed atmosphere of their Calm Monday sessions and the senior role model influence.
Darcie is a perfect example of the calming influence senior dogs bring to the facility.

“Senior dogs often set the tone for the group, bringing a calming presence that strengthens our sense of community,” said Gemma Gillespie, Director of Barkley Park. 

“They thrive in our Calm Monday sessions, which are designed with lower-energy play groups focused on confidence building rather than high-energy activity. We also give them extra rest breaks, one-on-one time, and plenty of cuddles from our team, giving them the comfort and reassurance they need to enjoy their day.”

Role Models for Younger Pups

Darcie is one of several senior dogs who’ve become steady role models at Barkley Park. Their soft energy helps younger dogs learn good manners and gentle play, creating a more balanced environment for everyone.

“They bring a sense of calm and steadiness to the playgroups, almost like role models for the younger pups,” Gillespie said. “Their presence helps balance the energy in the room, and the younger dogs quickly learn to adjust their play around them.”

The Reward of Deep Loyalty

For many families, adopting a senior dog is an act of love but also a source of joy. Their loyalty runs deep, and their ability to settle seamlessly into home life makes them ideal companions for people seeking genuine connection.
“Adopting a senior dog is one of the most rewarding decisions one can make,” Gillespie said. 
“Older dogs often bring a calming energy into the home and are deeply grateful for the love and comfort they receive. Our advice is to focus on care and companionship: provide gentle exercise, keep an eye on their health needs, and make space for lots of affection.”

Resilience and the Final Chapter

Gillespie says the older dogs who come through Barkley Park, like Darcie, continue to surprise her with their resilience and warmth.
Darcie, the senior dog, lies completely upside down with her belly exposed on the ground at Barkley Park, showing her deep trust and comfort in her environment.

“We see first-hand how senior dogs flourish when they are included and respected,” she said. 

“They may need a slower pace and more rest, but in return they give an incredible depth of loyalty and love. In the right home, they don’t just fit in. They complete the family.”

“Every senior dog we meet has a story, and we’re lucky to be a small part of the next chapter,” Gillespie concluded. “When families open their homes to them, they’re not just giving a dog a second chance; they’re gaining a friend who will love them unconditionally.”


For those ready to adopt, Barkley Park hopes this Adopt A Senior Pet Month serves as a gentle nudge to look beyond age and see the beauty in experience, loyalty, and love.

About Barkley Park

Barkley Park is a premium dog day care in North Brisbane that offers professional grooming, personalised training, and industry-leading grooming education—all under the one roof. They’re dedicated to making every visit a happy, tail-wagging experience for every dog that walks through their doors.

For more information, visit www.barkleypark.com.au

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