|
Important Facts You Need To know Before You Buy A Collie With the mass information now available on the internet, prospective buyers may often become confused by conflicting information. The following represents guidelines to assist the knowledge of recognizing reputable breeders and is based on the author's sixteen years of experience in collie breeding and exhibiting as well as experience in collie rescue, therapy dogs, obedience and collie club activities. 1) Reputable breeders have a solid knowledge of the collie breed standard of excellence as well as breed specific inheritable issues. Thier involvement revolves around an ethically-based belief of actions in accordance with the betterment of the breed. 2) Knowing that to attain this goal of betterment of the breed, they must align themselves with avenues of resources and learning; reputable breeders are most often members of collie and/or all breed clubs where they may stay aprised of issues pertaining to the collie. 3) The breeders litters are carefully planned and researched. They will be able to answer indepth questions about the subsequent generations of the litter and have a purpose for their breedings other than to just sell puppies. There will often be a period of wait for one of their puppies as they are not interested in mass production of puppies as is the case with indiscriminate breeders who breed often and for profit. 4) Reputable breeders do not use "sales tactics" such as color, sex or the words "champion lines" to sell their puppies. They recognize their puppies as living creatures and take their placement in new homes very seriously. They will more concerned about prospective puppy owners finding the right dog to fit into thier family, no matter who they buy from, rather than being concerned that the dog is purchased from them. Expect them to want to know some extensive information concerning prospective puppy buyers. 5)These breeders will not want their puppies going to new homes at too young of an age, being concerned with their emotional and social issues. 6) Often times dealing in contracts and health guarantees, these things offer protection to the buyer, seller and to the puppy. 7) Reputable breeders can be recognized by their accomplishments. Be wary of trusting mere words. Trust more in what the breeders accomplishments and actions tell you. 8) These breeders will make themselves available to people that purchase their dogs for assistance long after the dog leaves the breeders home. 9)They will be known as reputable among their peers and have no problem with offering references if they are asked for. 10) Reputable breeders will furnish an eye check performed by a certified veterinary opthomologist upon purchase of the puppy. Buying a puppy without an eye check is extremely risky. ***There seems to be some opinion-based information on the internet regarding C.E.A. If you have concerns or confusion regarding C.E.A., first check the source of the information, making sure it is fact rather than opinion based. If need be, ask a veterinary opthomologist directly. A breeder in your area should be able to give you information on the location of the nearest one. As unless the condition is detached retinas, a collie with C.E.A. can live a normal healthy life. Copyright 2003 K. A. |
 |