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Responsible Dog Owners -
Reputable Breeders
Since owning a puppy requires a commitment of
10-15 years, we strongly encourage buyers to resist their impulsive
urges and instead exercise the same caution and diligence one would
apply to buying a house or a car. Don't kid yourself into believing
that buying a dog is not a major financial and emotional decision.
Endeavor to expand your knowledge of a specific
breed that interests you, by checking a book out of your local
library or surfing other dog websites that provide breed
information.
Seek a consensus opinion of breed
characteristics and look for issues such as shedding, exercise,
barking, size, grooming and temperament. You will want to be sure to
find a good vet in your neighborhood before you buy. Many
breeders offering a written guarantee, require their dogs to be vet
checked within 72 hours of ownership to validate their health
guarantee.
Now after proceeding with caution and
determination, you are on your way to becoming a "Responsible Dog
Owner".
Unquestionably the most daunting task in
the search for the perfect puppy is in finding a "Reputable
Breeder". Yes, we're sorry to report, not all puppy sellers breed
their dogs for the right reasons. And, please be advised, "AKC
Registered" does not come with a guarantee of quality or health!
Primary Characteristics of a
Reputable Breeder
1. Provides a written contract of sale with a
health guarantee and written instructions on feeding, training,
grooming and care.
2. Provides access to the mother (dam) who should be on site and
exhibit a healthy, happy temperament.
3. Does not sell puppies until they are at least 8 weeks old or in
some cases older.
4. Shows you where the puppies are kept. This area should be very
clean.
5. Provides you with a record of the dates and types of vaccinations
and de-worming done, feeding instructions, a pedigree and a
registration certificate to apply for registration of the puppy in
your own name with the AKC.
6. Is able to prove he has preformed pre-breeding health checks on
the parents.
7. Provides references of people who have purchased puppies in the
past, the names of other breeders, and the veterinarian who provides
care for the breeders dogs.
8. Offers a return buy-back policy and make it clear that his/her
responsibility continues as long as the dog is alive. They should be
available for advice whenever needed, and help you over many rough
spots.
9. Abides by code of ethics, typically by belonging to a breed club
of association.
10. Is very knowledgeable about the breed he or she is selling.
11. Requires or encourages the neutering of all pet-quality dogs.
12. Sells puppies only to approved buyers and never sells to brokers
or puppy mills.
13. Can discuss socialization of the puppies and can make
recommendations for their continued socialization and training.
14. Usually breeds no more than two breeds.
By being a Responsible Dog Owner
and buying from a Reputable Breeder, you will be getting a great
start on a lifetime of unconditional puppy love.
From the Go Pets Website at:
http://www.gopetsamerica.com/reputable-breeder.aspx
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