Face it. If you’re a dog who’s young, cute, and healthy, you have a chance of finding a home. But if you’re older, or have any physical or emotional needs beyond the norm, the prospects can be bleak. Ditto for if you’re black. (Really. Read more about this phenomenon on the “black pearl” site or on Wisegeek.)

This week is Adopt-a-Less-Adoptable-Pet week. PetFinder, the virtual home of 349,275 adoptable pets from 13,553 adoption groups, is behind this great idea. A PetFinder survey shows that 30% of rescue groups say they have the hardest time placing senior dogs. Dogs with medical or emotional issues (including shyness), or certain breeds, also rank high in the difficult-to-place list.

Dogsters, if anyone in your life is thinking about getting a new pet, please send this post to them. I know I’m preaching to the choir when I tell you what a joy one of these “adoption challenged” dogs can be. They seem to know you are really going all out to give them another chance. You’ll rarely find as loyal a friend.* But if you know anyone who might be contemplating getting a new pet, please let them know about this special week, and urge them to check out the dogs in their local shelters – or better yet, have them click on PetFinder’s special “less adoptable” section.

*Here are some more inspirational reasons, from PetFinder, why “less adoptable” pets can be the best:

* Older pets are mellower – you don’t have to worry about your lamp getting knocked over!
* Physically challenged pets are often unaffected by their handicap – but you still look like a hero!
* With “bad reputation” breeds, you get the chance to prove people wrong with your great dog!
* Dark-furred pets make it easy to accessorize – black goes with everything!
* Pets with behavioral issues allow you to form a tight bond as you overcome obstacles together!
* Big dogs are easier to find when it’s time to go to the vet!