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Don't Be a Backyard Breeder - Page 2


© Sherrie Walker
Page 2
Some pet owners sincerely believe they have the most wonderful dog or cat who ever lived, and that the world would be a much happier place if there were more just like him/her. They fail to consider what characteristics the mate will contribute or what kinds of homes the offspring will be going to. In short, the chances of producing another dog or cat just like their pet are slim and none.

Other people may have a purebred dog or cat and want to make a little extra money by breeding their pet and selling the offspring. Unfortunately, the vast majority of these people have no idea about breed standards, whether their pet is really breeding quality (most aren't), how to select a compatible mate, what genetic tests should be done prior to breeding, how to properly socialize the puppies or kittens...The list goes on and on. The truth is that knowledgeable, reputable breeders have a very slim profit margin because of the costs of testing and caring for mother and babies. They are in the business because they love the breed, not because they think it is a way to retire early.

Backyard breeders, because of ignorance or a desire to save money, may not have all the recommended genetic testing to ensure their pet won't be passing on defects to the litter. They may not understand the stringent sanitation requirements to keep the tiny newborns safe from disease. They may not realize the importance of early socialization and how long the litter should remain with the mother. All of these failures can result in the same problems that are often seen in pet store pets: disease, temperament problems, genetic defects.

The bottom line is this: If you're a pet owner, unless you want to spend years learning to be a knowledgeable breeder, do yourself, the breed, and your pet a favor, and have your pet altered. If you're looking for a pet, go to a responsible breeder, or, better yet, go to a shelter. Shelter animals have been examined by a veterinarian and their temperaments evaluated by shelter personnel. You're much more likely to know what you're getting than with Aunt Minnie's schnauzer and (she thinks) the schnauzer down the street. And most important of all, you'll be saving a life.

How to tell a responsible breeder from a backyard breeder: Lawrence County Humane Society Abuse and Adoption Center
Health benefits of spay/neuter for your pet: The Dog Hause

       

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Here's the follow-up discussion on this article: View all related messages

5.   May 25, 2006 4:50 PM
I had kind of a stupid question. I have a purebred boxer who i purchased from a breeder in canada. My question is, if this dog is to get pregnant by say a german shepard or any other dog besides ano ...

-- posted by Vishna79


4.   Jun 3, 2002 5:52 AM
In response to message posted by Renie_Burghardt:
I'm doing great, Renie, thanks! I think spay/neuter is becoming much more common, ...

-- posted by SWALKER0


3.   Jun 3, 2002 5:50 AM
In response to message posted by JButler:
I think a lot of good people become backyard breeders because they don't fully realize all ...

-- posted by SWALKER0


2.   Jun 3, 2002 4:29 AM
Great article, as usual, Sherrie! I have 2 dogs that were born and abandoned because of backyard breeding, no doubt. They found a home with me, but so many puppies don't, as we know. Although they a ...

-- posted by Renie_Burghardt


1.   Jun 2, 2002 12:11 AM
Oh, I love your sensible articles, Sherrie. This opinion of backyard breeders is not often popular and it's even less popular to advocate no breeding at all until there are no homeless pets. It can b ...

-- posted by JButler





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