Pet Store Supports Puppy Mills - Page 2

EmilyB · #11 02-21-2008, 06:26 AM

If you need to find a reputable breeder for a specific breed, do some research. The same way you research your fish purchases I guess.

I can give you some leads for GSD's and Dobermans. Others on here can give you leads for other breeds.

EmilyB · #12 02-21-2008, 06:27 AM

Do you yourself know what backyard breeding is?

Der_Iron_Chef · #13 02-21-2008, 06:37 AM

I believe it's people who breed dogs to make a buck....not necessarily with the knowledge of what it takes to breed appropriately/responsibly/ethically/etc.

Hey, I'm just curious here...not trying to raise a stink

I considered getting a dog, but decided against it as I feel my apartment is too small, and that I don't have the time to devote to such a social creature with specific needs.

Just out of curiosity, what's a GSD? And do you think a Doberman would be happy in my 1100 sq. foot apartment?

Sebae again · #14 02-21-2008, 06:47 AM

IMO the best thing to do is ask to see the parents.There are now ''breeders'' who are buying dogs from other sources and giving the impression that they are their own.Everything looks like a ''mom and pop operation'' but some of these people are making a full fledged business out of this out of their home.

EmilyB · #15 02-21-2008, 07:00 AM

A GSD is a German Shepherd Dog. That is the exact name of the breed.

If you like a velcro demanding dog, that is the Doberman. The well-bred one, anyway.

Seeing the parents is fine. But do you know if they are clear of the possible genetic defects etc for the breed ? Make sure of that.

Anyway, *edited* is notorious for buying from puppy mills. Google it. I have to see it, because I go in there to look...it haunts me. Not in the rest of the city apparently. In fact, how many places are there in Calgary where they sell puppies of unknown origin?

Chaloupa · #16 02-21-2008, 07:04 AM

How to buy a dog;
Talk to a veterinarian and get breeder listings from them, then contact the breeder, ask to meet them and their dogs and get many many references. Get the breeders vet's name and ask for a reference from them too. Then because you have researched the breed you know what other things to ask about...ie hips and elbows are free from hip dysplasia, their eyes are clear and have been tested, they have no inherited issues in their lines, etc

I am with ya on the puppy mills....sad sad state most of those dogs live in all their lives. My Mom manages an SPCA and their job is so tough.

Hopefully the SPCA there can and will inspect the pet store that has the puppy BUT unless there is a health concern, it is not being fed/given water, kept warm and dry etc there isn't a bunch they can do with the puppy...after all it's not illegal for pet stores to purchase puppies wherever they want...and then they get the impulse shopper that has to buy that "Dachshund type" or "Purebred Bichon Poodle mix" (love those ones

) for $1200.00.

Anyone interested in a dog should always research, research, research first...just like we preach here!

EmilyB · #17 02-21-2008, 07:10 AM

Quote:

How to buy a dog;
Talk to a veterinarian and get breeder listings from them, then contact the breeder, ask to meet them and their dogs and get many many references. Get the breeders vet's name and ask for a reference from them too. Then because you have researched the breed you know what other things to ask about...ie hips and elbows are free from hip dysplasia, their eyes are clear and have been tested, they have no inherited issues in their lines, etc

Absolutely well put !

Our vet got us in contact with a doberman breeder who also did breed rescue. As a result, we adopted a wonderful dog, albeit less than perfect...

Ephraim · #18 02-21-2008, 02:30 PM

Emily,

The only reason *edit* is notorious for buying puppies from puppy mills is uneducated "heros" trying to make a difference, continuing to spread these rumors. Guess what, I happen to know the woman who purchases puppies for the Canadian corporate stores quite well. And I know for a fact that everything you say about the Canadian *edit* is puppy C**P.

*edit* adopts puppies as well, does that by default make them purchase from puppy mills too?

*edit* provides an essential service so not only elitist dog lovers such as yourself can purchase dogs. If consumers were robbed of this venue for adopting puppies wouldn't the majority of them resort to the bargain finder for their puppies? You find this to be a better route?

Ephraim · #19 02-21-2008, 02:34 PM

And by the way Emily, i strongly disagree with you that a three legged puppy does not deserve a loving permanent home. You may wish to see this animal destroyed, but it still deserves a life. I am sure there are many qualities about yourself that are less than perfect. Should one immediately take these into account upon meeting you for an accurate judgment of your worth?

Reefer Rob · #20 02-21-2008, 03:12 PM

The best place to start if you're looking for a purebred dog is your local dog show. You can meet with the breeders, and they are more than happy to talk to you about their breed. All my best dogs have been mixed breeds so I hope your not saying anyone who breeds a mongrel is a puppy mill. We work in the pet industry so we see all kinds of "breeders" (Labradoodles LOL) and the true puppy millers make me sick. These people are nothing like someone who lets their dog have a couple of litters, they're pure evil. At the other end of the scale are the elitist purebred breeders who believe the only dog of value is a show champion. Give me a mutt any day.