Puppies and kittens are fun and cute but they are usually a lot more work to care for than an adult animal. Also, they mature quickly, often in a few short months. Here's a few positives about adopting adult animals:

• Puppies and kittens will need house-breaking. Many adult animals are already house-broken.
• Greater selection: Most shelters have more adult animals in a wide variety of breeds and personalities.
• Health costs: Adult animals are less delicate and are able to ward off sickness better. They have often been vaccinated and even spayed/neutered.
• Energy: Puppies and kittens are usually more destructive and energetic than adults. In today's busy households, an older, calmer animal may be less disruptive of your schedule.
• Attitude: It's just not true that you can't teach an old dog (or cat) new tricks. In fact, older animals have usually been taught at least the basic rules and commands, and maybe a few special tricks they'd just love to share with a new family.