How Much is that Doggie in the Window?

Being a pet owner is truly one of life’s pure joys and it is tremendously gratifying to us pet lovers to see that society is beginning to recognize the importance of the human-animal bond. Pets provide companionship, genuine and unconditional affection and they benefit our physical and emotional well being beyond measure. However, there are those who work to take advantage of the close emotional bond we share with our pets: puppy mill operators and backyard breeders.

Puppy mills are large scale commercial breeding establishments which house very large numbers of assorted breeds of purebred dogs. The sole purpose of these puppy mills is to produce puppies to be sold to an unsuspecting public. These animals live in an extremely physically and psychologically deprived environment where there is no concern for their welfare. As a result, many puppy mill breeding dogs die due to neglect. Backyard breeders differ only in the number of dogs they keep and the number of puppies they can produce. These are not people who love animals; these are people who want to make as much money as possible with as little expenditure as possible. The bottom line for the dogs and puppies in their care is terrible suffering on a massive scale. Unfortunately, the unsuspecting purchasers of these puppies is also victimized by these puppy mill operators when their newly acquired puppy, now a cherished family pet, is permanently disabled by, or even succumbs to, a genetic or contagious disease.

So, how do you recognize a responsible breeder of purebred dogs? The responsible breeder is extremely knowledgeable about their breed - its history, purpose, genetic problems etc. They gain this expertise through years of experience and study and through exhibiting at dog shows. Their purpose in breeding is to improve and protect their breed and to breed champion quality dogs. They usually work to promote their breed through membership in their local and national breed and all breed kennel clubs. They show great affection and concern for the welfare of the dogs they own and are often involved in any rescue efforts involving their breed. They set very high standards with regards to breeding and will only breed those animals who are genetically, structurally and temperamentally sound. They maintain their dogs in hygienic conditions, usually as family members, and provide high quality diets and veterinary care. These breeders utilize non-breeding agreements on puppies they sell and will insist on interviewing prospective owners and having new owners sign contracts of care. They also maintain a lifelong interest in the puppies they sell.

If you are interested in getting a dog, please consider adopting a dog from your local animal shelter or local municipal shelter. These beautiful mixed breeds and purebreds are desperate to love you and be your companion for many happy years. Tragically, they usually end their lives being put down with a lethal injection, wrapped in a plastic bag, and laid in a freezer because no one wanted them and there was no longer any room left. If you do want to get a purebred dog from a breeder, then please consider getting a mixed breed too or volunteering for your local humane society as a foster guardian.

Consider these guidelines when purchasing a purebred dog.

Conception Bay South
Newfoundland - Canada