This entry was posted on Monday, July 19th, 2010 at 3:48 pm and is filed under Tip of the month. You can follow any responses to this entry through the RSS 2.0 feed. Both comments and pings are currently closed.
Despite the fact that new by-laws which will effectively prohibit the breeding of non-registered dogs are soon to be implemented, there seems to be an endless supply of non-registered puppies for sale. On the surface it may seem that there is little reason to get a registered dog when a “purebred” one without papers costs less, but looks the same. However, there are some very important things to consider:
Besides the purpose of preserving the physical and behavioural characteristics of the various breeds, the system of registering puppies also creates accountability. Most registered breeders are very serious when it comes to maintaining their good name and producing puppies that will be a credit to them in looks, temperament and health.
As someone who deals with newly acquired puppies constantly, I am increasingly distressed at the complete lack of accountability of most casual breeders. All too often puppies are homed far too early (anything from 4 - 6 weeks of age) and they have not been vaccinated or de-wormed.
In many cases the people who purchase the puppies are also to blame. They agree to take underage pups, don’t ask for vaccination cards and even take puppies when they have not had the chance to meet the parents, all against their better judgment.
When acquiring a puppy please make sure to do the following:
1. When at all possible, do go to a registered breeder. If you would prefer a mixed breed dog, have a look at all the local shelters.
2. Do not take your puppy home before it is 8 weeks old. If the “breeder” wants you to take the pups at 6 weeks, do not support him.
3. Don not take a puppy that has not had the first vaccination - ask to see the vet card if necessary.
4. Do not take a puppy when you have not met the parents.
5. Do not take a puppy when you observe that one of the parents has a temperament flaw (nervousness, hyperactivity or aggression).
Some non-registered breeders are making a fortune from selling puppies without taking any responsibility for the animals they are producing. Many sell pups for as much as R3000, but unlike registered breeders they have virtually no expenses (no registration fees, no vaccinations, no de-worming, no micro-chips, no stud fees and lower cost for food due to early homing). Please don’t support unscrupulous or ignorant breeders!