Where To Get A Good Pet

By Anne Hendrickson, Star Tribune Sales and Marketing

Last update: February 28, 2008 - 1:49 PM

A dog or cat that is readily available at a good price can seem like a dream come true. Buyer beware, it is often a nightmare lying in wait.

Pet store or Internet purchase

It is advisable to research breeders and rescues on the Internet. However, if you can buy the pet online, you don't want it.

The price of a pet available in a store or online runs from reasonable to extreme. These pets usually come from commercial breeders - known as puppy or kitten mills. Pets are often crammed into small cages and live in their own waste. These animals are bred in mass quantities, don't receive proper socialization and are prone to costly temperament and health problems. By purchasing your pet from a pet store or online you are perpetuating an industry fraught with the atrocious treatment of animals. (Many rescue groups offer adoptions in pet stores, which is different than buying an animal from a retailer.)

Breeders

A quality breeder is investing in what is known as health clearances - breeding for healthy hips, heart, eyes and eliminating common genetic defects. A reputable breeder will go to great lengths to socialize the animals, screen adoptive families and will even take the pet back, if needed. The initial cost of the pet may be higher; however, don't let cost be the only determining factor when choosing a breeder.

Visit the site and make sure all the pens are clean. Meet the animal's parents and other family members, who are indicative of what you are buying. The early weeks in an animal's life are significant in shaping your adult pet. The young animals should be raised in the house and receive a great deal of handling from children and adults. An AKC or CFA registration is not a guarantee that an animal is well bred or healthy.

Rescue

Pets of any age and breed are readily available through shelters or rescue groups. The price of a rescued animal is usually lower than that of an animal purchased through a breeder or pet store. By adopting, you are helping to fight pet overpopulation. At Downtown Dogs, we work with many rescue groups and bear witness to the great animals available through adoption.

There is no shortage of available pets - so regardless of budget, entrust your decision to research, common sense and your heart to create a perfect match between you and your pet-to-be.

Anne Hendrickson is the owner of Downtown Dogs Daycare and Boarding, www.downtowndogsminneapolis.com.

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