where to get your dog

Where are they and what is the difference?

There are many ways to acquire a new puppy or dog, and some methods are definitely better than others. Puppy mills, shelters, pet stores, and dog breeders are the most common sources of new pets for most people. Carefully examine the nature of each of these places before buying a dog.

puppy mills

The term “puppy farm” refers to any breeding facility that breeds dogs solely for profit. Little attention is paid to the animals and breed standards are not kept up to par. In the worst puppy mills, dogs are stacked in cages, poorly fed, and given very little medical care. Bitches are bred continuously, heat cycle after heat cycle, giving the bitch little time to recover before being fertilized once again. The conditions in the puppy mills in which these dogs are kept and bred often produce dogs with minor or major medical and behavioral problems. Not all puppy mills are large facilities. Even the “backyard breeder” who breeds dogs solely for profit and not for the welfare of the breed, is considered by many to be a puppy mill. The prices you’ll pay to a puppy mill may be less than what you would have paid for a dog from a reputable breeder, but you may end up paying more in the long run. Puppy mill dogs are often plagued with medical problems (resulting from lack of proper medical care and malnutrition) that require an inordinate amount of medical exams, injections, and medications.

shelters

If breed doesn’t matter and you’re simply looking for a companion animal, your local animal shelter is a great place to start your search. Dogs of all ages, breeds and sizes are available. Many shelters allow you to play with a dog and spend some time with him before making the final decision on whether or not you want to adopt him. They want to make sure it fits perfectly! For an adoption fee, you’ll get a dog that has been patched up, vaccinated, and injected with a microchip.

pet stores

No trip to the mall would be complete without visiting the pet store, right? All those cute little puppies so excited to see you! It’s a wonder someone walks out of a pet store without taking one of those cuties home. Animals in a pet store may appear to be well cared for and store personnel may guarantee the health and quality of the animals, but the truth is often something else entirely. The only source of dogs for pet stores today is the puppy mill. No reputable breeder would allow their dog to be exhibited and sold like that, so what other kind of breeder is left?

Breeders

Reputable breeders are the best option if you are looking for a purebred puppy. A reputable breeder is one who works for the benefit of the breed, on a non-profit basis, and who cares where his puppies end up. He expects to be asked about his plans for the dog and don’t be surprised if, after a conversation or two, the breeder decides that his home would not be the best for his dog. If the breeder approves, he’ll probably have to sign some kind of contract in which he agrees to: immediately spay or neuter a dog purchased solely for companionship; notify the breeder of any medical conditions the dog develops; notify the breeder if you have to get rid of the dog to find a new home for it; and raise your dog (if that’s why he’s buying it) according to breed standards. The actual contract may also include other provisions. This may seem a bit strict, but the breeder is only trying to ensure the health and well-being of the animal. A pet you buy from a reputable and responsible breeder can be very expensive, but you’ll know that your new addition to the family is as healthy as possible and free of genetic defects. Where do you find a reputable breeder? Once you decide on the right breed for you, check with the relevant local and national breed clubs. They will be able to recommend a breeder in your area.

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