DEAR EDITOR:
In response to Mr. Vegas letter about local pet stores and
breeders I strongly disagree with the practice of local pet stores
selling dogs. It comes down to supply and demand.
DEAR EDITOR:
In response to Mr. Vegas letter about local pet stores and breeders I strongly disagree with the practice of local pet stores selling dogs. It comes down to supply and demand. If pet stores did not buy the puppies, puppy mills would not supply them. Reputable breeders are not snobby or selfish, they are concerned.
It is unfortunate that Mr. Vega does not understand what a reputable breeder is. It is someone who knows and understands their breed of dogs. They know the diseases and ailments that affect the breed and they try make sure those traits are not carried on. They stay in contact with every family they place a dog with for the lifetime of the dog to be sure the dog is doing well and the family is enjoying life with the dog.
If there was ever a training issue, a health issue, a change in the family’s situation the breeder is there to help whether the dog is six months or 16 years. They offer another dog, they take the dog back (which may require going to another state) they do whatever they can to be sure the family and the dog are happy.
When my daughter expressed an interest in showing dogs I went to a local Golden Retriever breeder. This breeder and the people involved with Gavilan Kennel Club have taught my daughter and my family so much about dogs.
They have come to my house and given obedience lessons so that we all have an understanding of how to make our home life enjoyable with our dog. They have taught my daughter how to show. They come and cheer her on. When they see her around town they always ask about her latest dog experiences. When my daughter went to obedience class and people asked how to groom their dogs like hers it was that same Golden Retriever breeder who gladly came to our home and helped families with dogs from breeders she doesn’t know with several hours of grooming help, answer any questions and give her phone number if they ever had concerns. The truly reputable people of the dog world are just that, REPUTABLE PEOPLE.
As for the comment about not placing dogs with families that keep them outside obviously you don’t see the love a reputable breeder has for the dog.
They do not want the dog to become a nuisance to the neighborhood, they want it to be a true part of your family which includes being in the house. Families who choose to not train their dogs the proper behavior in the home are not enjoyable for anyone to be around.
Finding a local reputable breeder is easy, go to www.akc.org they have lists of breeders, rescue groups and clubs.
The phone book has listings of kennels, shelters and veterinarians who would be thrilled to offer assistance in finding a dog. Call many different breeders and find someone you really like and trust so that you can rely on them for advice and so on throughout your years of owning a dog.
Michelle Tercero, Morgan Hill
Submitted Friday, April 30 to [email protected]
