For those who intend to get a pet dog, we offer this advise:
Before anyone purchases a dog or cat for a pet, PLEASE do your homework.
Certain breeds require more attention and care than others. Your home is a big factor.
Age of children, how much time you can devote to your pet, etc. IE: One might think
that a small dog would be great with small children - However, small or Toy Yorkies are
very delicate and require a great deal of attention. In a home with a small child,
the dog may accidentally be seriously hurt when playing with a small child or become
very destructive in an attempt to gain more attention.
If you are reading this page, you are on the Internet and have an endless supply of info
available to you from professionals - Vets, Breeders, Humane Society, etc. USE IT!
If you are serious about obtaining a dog or cat for a pet or companion - please do NOT
go to a pet shop. Pet shops are supplied by puppy mills. ( see puppy mill page).
Our first choice to obtain a pet would be from your local animal shelter.
(We got Kizmet from one!) These animals make wonderful companions. I grew up with
mix breeds and know that they have as much love and loyalty to give as any pure breed.
And these are animals that need a good home and deserve a loving family.
If you want a specific breed, do your homework and get as much info as possible about
the breed you want. Once you are sure that the breed you want is right for you and your family,
you can check your local rescue center for that breed. (Keep in mind, there is usually a waiting list.)
Your next choice is to find a good breeder.
The right breeder has the welfare of the animal as their top priority.
They want the animal's disposition to be compatible with your needs.
They will guarantee the animal and will provide written medical history.
And if you ever find yourself in a situation where you must give up the animal - they want you to bring it back to them.
Don't settle for the first breeder you talk to - shop around. The more breeders you talk to,
the more you will learn about the breed you want. You will also get an idea of the value of
the breed in this way. Prices can differ slightly within the same area, but be extremely
different in another State. You can use the Internet to find a pet from anywhere in the country.
We live in New York, but thanks to the net, got Ginger our Yorkie from
Orlane-Elan Yorkshire Terriers
in Delaware and we got Kat our Shih Tzu from
"The Pampered Pup" in Missouri. (Sent to us on a plane and we picked up at the airport).
Yes, we were a little uncomfortable with this type of purchase at first, but after talking
with numerous breeders and vets, we decided to do it.
We are sure glad we did! My wife did her homework and we received exactly what she wanted.
Bottom line is invest some time and do your homework before getting a new pet!
Know what type of pet is best for you (Or at least be prepared if you want that breed no matter what)
Research and interview different sources. Doing so will not only bring the perfect pet to you,
but you will also have a better understanding of your pets needs and will develop a more loving relationship!
Good luck and cherish the unconditional love you will soon receive!