why do people say this?

[Amber]

When people say 'my next pet is definatly, going to come from a shelter'

And they say how they feel terrible for all the homless pets that are out there.

And they turn around and get there next pet from a breeder.

then they say they couldnt find the right one there. Dont they know its a time process?


Why do people say Im going to get my pet from the shelter, but turn around and get one from a breeder?

Sorry, somthing is just bugging me personally. : /


didnt know where to put this**

[Amber]

It makes me sick too :(

[wolf_Q]

Because they are STUPID and having nothing else to do with their money except line the pockets of the breeders instead of offering a home to a pet that is on death row.

I'm sorry but that statement offends me. Just because somebody chose to get an animal from a breeder does not make them STUPID necessarily.

I didn't get Nebo from a great breeder. There's nothing I can do about that now. I love my dog and that's that!

I've said many times that my next dog will be from a shelter or rescue. I can't predict the future, I don't know what will happen or when I will ever be able to get another dog. All I know is that is what I'd like to do, and that's what I'll try to do. I've found many on petfinder and rescue group websites I've fallen in love with. There's one right now I'd drive down to Texas and get if I was able to!

But no matter what I do, I don't think it's anyones right to assume that I (or anyone else) don't care about homeless pets because they got one from a breeder.

Now I do definitely agree that sometimes it's stupid for someone to say they couldn't find the right one in a shelter...as many dogs go in and out of shelters, rescue groups, etc. so it is a time process. Just because you don't find the perfect one the first time you visit doesn't mean the perfect one won't arrive.

[Amber]

I dont want this to be directed to anyone here with purebreds from breeders. Like I said its a personal thing for me. and i was wondering about it.

[GoldenRetrLuver]

Originally posted by moosmom
Because they are STUPID and having nothing else to do with their money except line the pockets of the breeders instead of offering a home to a pet that is on death row.

Makes me sick!!! :mad: :mad:

Sorry, but that offended me too.
Molly and Daisy didn't come from the best breeders, but now it doesn't matter. If I could go back in time, would I still have gotten them? Possibly. But I love them way too much to even think about that. Does that make me a stupid person? Without responsible breeders (key word...) NONE of the breeds we love would exist today.
I visit the animal shelter EVERY week to check on the animals and make sure they're getting the proper care. If I was looking for another dog at the time, and fell in love with one at a shelter, would I adopt him/her? ABSOLUTELY! There's nothing wrong with the ones there. I know they make wonderful pets (We adopted a dog and our cats from one) but we chose to go to a breeder.

Like Amy said, it's not right to assume people don't care about the ones in shelters, because we do. We just didn't happen to go that path.

[CathyBogart]

Well :-P! I'll tell you right now that I plan to get my next dog from a breeder, and I'm not ashamed of it. I've done my research, found two breeders I like, both with a year plus waiting list, and I'm gettting my Bedlington from one of them when the time is right.

As for people saying one thing and doing another....they just don't have the patience I guess. Getting a dog from a breeder is better than some schmuck from the paper or someone selling puppies outside of K-Mart, or worse...a pet store.

[tikeyas_mom]

Originally posted by moosmom
Because they are STUPID and having nothing else to do with their money except line the pockets of the breeders instead of offering a home to a pet that is on death row.

Makes me sick!!! :mad: :mad:

ummm that statement is very offensive to me and other who have gotten their dogs from breeders. I know that backyard breeders are not good, but what is wrong with a breeder that puts all their money time and energy into breeding a specific breed to better it?? I am getting my future dog from a breeder, inless i can find a pure bred of the breed I want in a rescue.

[binka_nugget]

Well now, I wouldn't call myself "stupid" for going to a breeder. But people go to breeders for different reasons. Personally, I will try to rescue all my future dogs. But, I am human. I have my heart set on a not so common breed and highly doubt I'd see one in a shelter. Heck, I've never seen one in this city! Also, with some breeds being overbred by idiots, you can get alot of health problems. I believe gsds are known for bad hips which is another reason why someone might want to go to a breeder. There are also people who want to take on certain activities with the dog that they may not find in a rescue dog (conformation for example).

But, I will try to rescue my future dogs. Rescuing Kaedyn was one of the best things I've ever done. I'd love to do it again. Nothing has been more rewarding for me than to be able to rescue a neglected dog with behavior problems and turn him into a well loved family member with virtually no behavior problems.

[Kfamr]

I don't know, but I can say for SURE.. that ALL of my future dogs will come from the shelters. Unless, we get the point, which i'd love to see, where we don't need dog shelters.

[Tonya]

Well, ideally, I would like to get all my dogs from rescues. And for most of my life, I've been successful in doing that.

But on the same line, if a person has an animal that their heart is set on, I'd much rather see them get it from a responsible breeder, then wind up adopting a dog that they really didn't want.

*I know, I know* It is hard not to fall in love with every dog that comes from a shelter. But still...if you've researched a breed, and you know that it is exactly what will fit into your home, you can't always find it at the shelter.

[moosmom]

WHATEVER! :rolleyes: :rolleyes:

I have purebred cats. A Sphynx, an American Curl and a Munchkin. ALL of them are RESCUES from BAD breeders.

Personally, I think that statement
'my next pet is definatly, going to come from a shelter'

is just a person's way of justifying their purchase from a breeder. It makes them feel better.

[Corinna]

Up until Merlin all my dogs (except those breed and raised by me) we rescues and I couldn't find what I wanted. I felt after dealing with so many crazy and dogs with so many behavioral problems I deserved the companion I wanted. I make no appolise either and I looked for 3 years and talked to about 75 breeders before I chose Merlins breeder she went beyond what I had as guidelines.
Some times you have to take a brake from rescues and totally enjoy you friend. most of my rescues were mean and visious and would have been put down had i not taken them. I got them all non-crazed and made nice family dogs. I was just too tired to do any more for a time being.
Please don't paint me with your broad brush of a statement sometimes things aren't readally seen by outsideers.

[PJ's Mom]

Originally posted by GoldenRetrLuver
Sorry, but that offended me too.

Me too. Peej came from a breeder. Does that make me stupid? :rolleyes:

Bailey is a shelter dog.
Opus (the dog before Bailey) was a rescue off the street that I paid close to $1,000 to save from heartworms and neglect before he bit Rottie on the face and had to be put to sleep.
Brut (the dog before Opus) was rescued from an abusive home.

Don't tell me that I'm stupid because one of my dogs came from a breeder. :mad:

[ParNone]

Personally I don't make life decisions based on what
other people think. I consider adding a dog to my
family as a very serious lifelong commitment, akin
to marriage or having kids. So I don't really care
if somebody looks down on me for getting a dog from
a breeder. They're not the ones who have to live
with that decision. I am. And considering how harmonious
my lil' family is, I think I'm more than capable of
making good decisions where that's concerned.

Since Maddie passed away, I have been looking for
a puppy at a shelter for the last couple of mos, but
so far the couple that have called out to me as being
right, were snatched up before I could even inquire
about them. So if I ultimately end up getting one from
a breeder, that'll be what's right for me and Murph and
Oz.

I personally do not think the emphasis should be put on
where you get your dog, so much as on, how much
love you give them, how well you treat them and the
unwavering commitment you make to them. That's what
should really count.

Par...

[micki76]

Ya know, Chester came from a breeder, and yes I was stupid to buy him. Would I go back and do anything different? No. Will I buy from another breeder again? No.

Now that I know better I cannot in good conscious buy a dog when there's a pitiful, abused, hurt dog who's never known true love. Sure, I would really rather have had ANY other dog except Aneko. But she needed us and she fits in ok with our family. Not the 'perfect' dog for us, but she's happy to be here and I'm happy she's alive.

I’ve had my heart set on a westie for a long time, and have filled out an application for a rescue. When one comes along that’s right for us, we’ll know. Until then I’ll wait impatiently, but I won’t go out and buy one. If another dog comes along that needs me, then that dog will be mine instead of a westie. I’m unselfish enough to know that any dog can give me love and I can give any other breed as much love as I can a westie.

If you can't find the breed you want in a rescue, just wait a month or so and keep looking. He/she will be there eventually, just waiting for you to save their life! :)

JMO.

[wolfsoul]

I am also quite offended that I'm considered stupid for going to a reputable breeder rather than a shelter. I have my own personal problems that are my reasoning for this, however I don't see that it should matter. I'm still going to adopt a cat, and I'm still going to adopt rats, and probably other rodents. Heck, I'm even going to have my own rescue or shelter, plus maybe I'll foster animals while I'm at it. It isn't to 'make up' for not getting my dogs from shelters, it's because I truly love animals and want to help them. Going to a good breeder doesn't mean you are stupid -- it could possibly mean that you've done your research and you know how to keep away from a bad breeder.

[2kitties]

I don't think there is anything wrong with responsible breeders who are working to keep and better their breeds through proper breeding, homing, and educating. I do have a problem with puppy mills, backyard breeders and people who just think they want their dog to have puppies or their kids to see puppies be born or they want to make a few bucks or whatever. These are the kinds of people that give breeding a bad name. They dont' take into account the hereditary issues of particular breeds, they will breed to close too the bloodline and they don't properly screen new homes.

[pitbullmommy]

Originally posted by moosmom
Because they are STUPID and having nothing else to do with their money except line the pockets of the breeders instead of offering a home to a pet that is on death row.

Makes me sick!!! :mad: :mad:

That offended me also and i think it was disrespectful to say something like that when there are so many peopl on this chat that have pure breeds. I dont think it was right to say, I think every her has a love for animals and would never want to see bad things happen but no one should pass judgement on anyone bc of where we got out dogs! I just think that statement was rude and uncalled for. sorry my opinion.:(

[mugsy]

I personally feel that if we put a 5 year moratorium on ALL breeding that we wouldn't have the problem we have now. It would force people to get their dogs from a rescue or shelter. I would LOVE to put the shelter employees out of a job.

I will NEVER get a dog from anywhere except a shelter, but, I'm not everyone and people will get their pets from where they so choose. My only wish is that people would consider a shelter dog before going to a breeder....now....understand that I realize that many won't do that because they have something specific in mind, but, they are out there if you look hard enough.

Sorry if I offend anyone, but, I vote for shelter dogs....they need a home more than a breeder's pup...just my opinion...take it for what it's worth (which isn't much! lol ;) )

[Kfamr]

Originally posted by moosmom
Sorry, but there are PLENTY of purebreed rescue organizations out there to adopt from, rather than lining the pocket of a breeder.

Secondly, I never once directed my opinions at anyone in particular. They are MY opinions and I am sticking to them. It's YOUR problem if you are offended by them.


I'd never even think of buying from a breeder and that comment offended me. You called alot of the dog owners on Pet Talk stupid. Which it wasn't directly towards them, but there are many who have bought from breeder on this site, and maybe you should think before you type next time.

And then, coming back with an "WHATEVER" after many stated that they were offended wasn't too great either.

But, that's just my opinion.

[Kfamr]

I agree with you 100% Molly.

And your opinion is worth some.... maybe just a little.
:p :p :p

[popcornbird]

While rescuing is a wonderful thing and should be encouraged, I don't believe anyone should *condemn* people for getting animals from reputable breeders. Everyone has their reasons. Getting a pet is making a life commitment, and people make their decisions based on different reasons. Calling them stupid is uncalled for. There are other ways of stating the same opinion...........stating things angrily will only make people run from you. Just my honest opinion. :(

[wolfsoul]

Originally posted by mugsy
I personally feel that if we put a 5 year moratorium on ALL breeding that we wouldn't have the problem we have now.
While I agree completely with what you're saying, I do think that 5 years is an awful long time, because then after five years when people start breeding again, all of the female dogs will be 5 years older. It's healthy to start them off at a younger age. I think they should just make backyard breeding illegal, and most of our problems would end. Researchers have found out that 65% of the dog population comes from backyard breeders.

[PJ's Mom]

Originally posted by moosmom
They are MY opinions and I am sticking to them. It's YOUR problem if you are offended by them.

Fine. It's your problem that you can't voice your opinions without offending...knowing full well that a lot of people here got their pets from breeders. A little tact wouldn't kill you.

[mugsy]

Originally posted by wolfsoul
. Researchers have found out that 65% of the dog population comes from backyard breeders.

I would have guessed higher, but, that's still a lot. Actually what needs to happen is that the law enforcement and legislators have to get their heads out and realize that there is a problem and the AKC needs to stop giving licenses to anyone who sends something in and start inspecting like they are supposed to do. As always, it's bureacracy to get something done, but, like always, it probably never will. :(

[GoldenRetrLuver]

Originally posted by PJ's Mom
Fine. It's your problem that you can't voice your opinions without offending...knowing full well that a lot of people here got their pets from breeders. A little tact wouldn't kill you.

Agreed 100%.

[tikeyas_mom]

I will be getting my next dog from a breeder that spends all their money and time in bettering the breed, I have gotten Tikeya and oscar both from bad breeders, but I didnt know the difference, i was ignorant. But i wouldent for one second change a thing if i could.

[primabella]

I was very offended by certain statements in here. Mickey is my baby and my dog. The dog I have been waiting for since I ever wanted a dog. And he is from a breeder. Does that make him any lesser or any better than a shelter dog? I think not. Although I totally support rescue and shelters and admire anyone who does rescue, I did not rescue a dog. Because I wanted a certain breed of dog that would be good for my family. All dogs in the shelters (when we looked) were large and we don't have the yard or size of house to accomodate to a large breed dog. Why rescue a dog and give him a miserable life in a small house with little room to play? I don't see the fairness in that.

After searching every shelter in the area we turned to a breeder and that's it. Maybe I should have waited longer and gone back to the shelters, looking for a Sheltie or Sheltie mix...but I didn't. Do I regret it? Not at all. It's just the way things worked out for me.

I will definitely try and rescue in the future. I want to. Adoption or buying a dog is up to that person. Sure adoption is an amazing thing, but it should never feel like it's being pressured.

[Amber]

Man o man....

why did you all make this thread about your dogs from breeders? Mooshoo was just speaking her mind. All I asked was why someone would say that and promise themselves that they would get their pet from a shelter, but ends up getting from a breeder.

So WHY? Like I said this is somthing that is going on right now, with me personally. Nothing to do with your dogs/cats.

And im sorry if it was offended. but thats life.

this has nothing to do with you and your dogs, and why you got them.

[Miss Meow]

Amber, to try to answer your original question, people might change their minds because: they're hypocrites and try to 'do the right thing' but had no intention in the first place; they might be talked into buying the current trendy dog that hasn't made its way to shelters yet (eg Staffies are huge here right now, and will no doubt be filling the shelters later in the year :(); or they might not find the right dog on a shelter visit and genuinely change their minds.

[edited to delete stuff about my dogs that Amber doesn't want :o ]

[CathyBogart]

OK then....Why do people choose to have their OWN kids when there are THOUSANDS who desperately need homes up for adoption?! Why should having a little DNA replica of yourself be any more important than taking a child out of foster care and putting them in a home? It's the same mentality.

Heh...I know how you feel Amber. My last Dog House thread was hijacked and it still continued AFTER I asked it to stop. -_-

[Kfamr]

Eesh, Amber, cool down! :eek:

[GoldenRetrLuver]

Originally posted by WolfChan
OK then....Why do people choose to have their OWN kids when there are THOUSANDS who desperately need homes up for adoption?! Why should having a little DNA replica of yourself be any more important than taking a child out of foster care and putting them in a home? It's the same mentality.

EXCELLENT POINT! I don't see how that could be any different with dogs.

[moosmom]

Rather than apologizing for voicing MY OPINION, which I am entitled to, I have deleted most of my posts except for one.

Amber has kindly said it best. I don't think it's AMBER who needs to cool down.


Amber,


Man o man....

why did you all make this thread about your dogs from breeders? Mooshoo was just speaking her mind. All I asked was why someone would say that and promise themselves that they would get their pet from a shelter, but ends up getting from a breeder.

So WHY? Like I said this is somthing that is going on right now, with me personally. Nothing to do with your dogs/cats.

And im sorry if it was offended. but thats life.

this has nothing to do with you and your dogs, and why you got them.

Thanks for your support.

[Amber]

Okay, Im sorry. Im just upset, how this thread came out. And yes I need to cool down., Please splash some water on me.

I just wondered how someone who has there heart set on a shelter dog, but then goes off and gets a breeder dog. :confused:

[CathyBogart]

*splashes you* Purrrhaps they were just too impatient to look for what they wanted? Maybe they had the breed (and/or breeder) recommended to them by a third party. (Who may or may not know what they're talking about.) Maybe they saw a cute picture and got impulsive.

Our society today is so disposable. Nobody takes anything seriously anymore. Marriage, kids, pets, all things that were once taken seriously thet now have become a whim for many people, to be disposed of when they're tired of them. :( So sad for the other people/animals involved.

[micki76]

Originally posted by WolfChan
Our society today is so disposable. Nobody takes anything seriously anymore. Marriage, kids, pets, all things that were once taken seriously thet now have become a whim for many people, to be disposed of when they're tired of them. :( So sad for the other people/animals involved.

So true. Sadly.:(

[Amber]

Originally posted by WolfChan
*splashes you* Purrrhaps they were just too impatient to look for what they wanted? Maybe they had the breed (and/or breeder) recommended to them by a third party. (Who may or may not know what they're talking about.) Maybe they saw a cute picture and got impulsive.


Thakyou for this good advice.....




...........and thanks for the splash!

I needed it :p

[primabella]

I'm sorry my post was actually not written in response to your question. I got very upset with some of the things that were being sad.

Amber, to try to answer your original question, people might change their minds because: they're hypocrites and try to 'do the right thing' but had no intention in the first place

I agree.

[primabella]

Originally posted by WolfChan


Our society today is so disposable. Nobody takes anything seriously anymore. Marriage, kids, pets, all things that were once taken seriously thet now have become a whim for many people, to be disposed of when they're tired of them. :( So sad for the other people/animals involved.

So true...and sad. :(

[Amber]

Originally posted by primabella
I'm sorry my post was actually not written in response to your question. I got very upset with some of the things that were being sad...that's life.


It's all okay. I'm understanding where you all are coming from, and where moosmom is coming from.

Im gonna have to have a talk with this person. (Who is being the impulsive shopper)

[lizbud]

Originally posted by Amber


I just wondered how someone who has there heart set on a shelter dog, but then goes off and gets a breeder dog. :confused:


I don't understand that either. Maybe they just thought about
stuff longer and then decided they wanted a specific breed of
dog. ? Some people want the perfect dog (as a pup) and don't
want the hassle of dealing with a dog that might carry baggage.

I think training is training, whether you start from puppyhood
or train an older dog who has a willing heart, but through no
fault of his, has never been taught proper manners.

I'd have to go with Shelter dogs everytime. Not any dog, but
one that I feel a connection with. :)

[wolf_Q]

I guess I shouldn't have said anything, look what I started! :o Although I didn't post just to start something, I posted because I honestly was offended.

When I say my next dog will be from a shelter rescue, I really am not just saying that. I really WOULD like to get my next dog from a shelter or rescue. And if I am ever able to get a cat, the shelter would be the first place I looked.

Yes, I will be specific. I want a female siberian husky. But I know I can find that, there's many siberian husky rescues and I'm willing to travel.

Honestly I'm glad that I raised my first siberian husky from a puppy. They are not always an easy breed to handle, I'm not sure if I would have been ready for an adult dog, especially one who may have had some issues to deal with. I feel NOW that I would be able to handle an adult dog and work through any issues.

[primabella]

Originally posted by Amber
It's all okay. I'm understanding where you all are coming from, and where moosmom is coming from.

Im gonna have to have a talk with this person. (Who is being the impulsive shopper)

I really wish you had mentionned in your first post that this had a persinal side to it. ;) Good luck with this person. Buying on impulse is a baaaad idea. Hopefully you can talk them out of it.

[catnapper]

You know what? Until I was in my twenties, I had no idea that breeders actually existed. Whenever my family was in need of a new pet, we got in the car and drove to the SPCA. In Nicki's case, I met a woman while shopping whose dog just had puppies. In Allen's case, my Aunt's cat had kittens, and he was the last one in need of a home. Pouncer was a "surprise" when we were shopping at Petco during one of their adoption days.

I personally like the "character" of a mixed breed animal. My Sam-dog was the funniest thing - Dachshund/Lab mix.... little Doxie body with Lab face and temperment:D But I can understand the people who just have to have a (fill in the blank). Many people don't realize that a (fill in the blank) might possibly be found at a local shelter. I had a German Shepherd growing up and would love my next dog to be one. I do know that I'll be looking in shelters for him/her - but mainly brecause I refuse to put out the hundreds of dollars breeders ask. Why pay $400 for a dog when you can get one for $50? I can use that extra money for toys and vet care.

Yes, people are hypocritical. I myself have been one on occasion. Its human nature. I swore I'd never shop at Target or Walmart again after each had their scandals, but was at both stores several times last month. (ok, a weak anology, but you get the point.) Its life... and unfortunately, people are emotional creatures and follow our hearts. When we have our hearts set on a pet - and a certain breed of pet, we sometimes don't want to wait for it - we want it NOW. Blame our rapidly moving society if you must, but people will do it time and time again because it fits their scedules and fills the emotional need of the moment.

[Tonya]

Originally posted by ParNone
Personally I don't make life decisions based on what
other people think. I consider adding a dog to my
family as a very serious lifelong commitment, akin
to marriage or having kids. So I don't really care
if somebody looks down on me for getting a dog from
a breeder. They're not the ones who have to live
with that decision. I am. And considering how harmonious
my lil' family is, I think I'm more than capable of
making good decisions where that's concerned.

Since Maddie passed away, I have been looking for
a puppy at a shelter for the last couple of mos, but
so far the couple that have called out to me as being
right, were snatched up before I could even inquire
about them. So if I ultimately end up getting one from
a breeder, that'll be what's right for me and Murph and
Oz.

I personally do not think the emphasis should be put on
where you get your dog, so much as on, how much
love you give them, how well you treat them and the
unwavering commitment you make to them. That's what
should really count.

Par...

AMEN

[Tonya]

It wouldn't be a bad idea to require breeders to be licensed first. In California, manicurists and hair stylists have strict licensing rules, yet childcare and pet breeding doesn't???

[ILoveMyAbbyGirl]

Because they are STUPID and having nothing else to do with their money except line the pockets of the breeders instead of offering a home to a pet that is on death row.

I resent that statement. I got my dog from a breeder, and she is the best dog I've ever had. Yes, she was $700. If it was my choice, I would have gotten a homeless dog. But I think it's the same for breeder's pups. If they don't get bought... where do they go? Shelters, maybe. But all that matters is how much you love your dog, not where you got it from.

[Cincy'sMom]

To answer why people say one thing and do another is impossible...maybe it is because they know it is what "you" ( whoever you might be) want to hear; Perhaps it is the thought at the moment, or maybe it realy was the intention and things changed.


No matter how we feel about breeders, shelters, or pet stores, look at all the pets on PT. They all came from different backgrounds, different situations, whether purebred or mixed breed, adopted as puppies or kittens or adults. Think of the bond their owner has formed with them, and ask yourself, how could they have NOT gotten that pet? Maybe we wouldn't all get our pets from the same place we did this time, but that doesn't make anyone's pet less special or less valuable or any person here stupid. JMO

[wolf_Q]

Originally posted by Cincy'sMom


No matter how we feel about breeders, shelters, or pet stores, look at all the pets on PT. They all came from different backgrounds, different situations, whether purebred or mixed breed, adopted as puppies or kittens or adults. Think of the bond their owner has formed with them, and ask yourself, how could they have NOT gotten that pet? Maybe we wouldn't all get our pets from the same place we did this time, but that doesn't make anyone's pet less special or less valuable or any person here stupid. JMO

Good post! I completely agree with you.

[wolfsoul]

Originally posted by Tonya
It wouldn't be a bad idea to require breeders to be licensed first.
I agree; I think that there should be a license allowing you to breed, as well as a license that allows you to have unaltered pets (for breeding or show purposes). I think that, otherwise, any breeding should be illegal, and that there should be fines placed on anyone who disobeys that law. I also think there should be higher consequenses for puppy mills. I remember the mill that was here a while back --- about 50 dogs and tons of puppies, and the guy got charged a $600 fine, and was given back his main breeding stud, one mother dog, and all of her puppies, and then he moved to Ontario where he has undoubtedly started another breeding program. What a great penalty. :mad: There's also another puppy mill here that the Spca has known about for ten years -- Think they'll do anything about it? Nope. Of course this is the Kelowna Spca, and I am not fond of their beliefs or practices as it is.

[Logan]

Originally posted by Cincy'sMom
To answer why people say one thing and do another is impossible...maybe it is because they know it is what "you" ( whoever you might be) want to hear; Perhaps it is the thought at the moment, or maybe it realy was the intention and things changed.


No matter how we feel about breeders, shelters, or pet stores, look at all the pets on PT. They all came from different backgrounds, different situations, whether purebred or mixed breed, adopted as puppies or kittens or adults. Think of the bond their owner has formed with them, and ask yourself, how could they have NOT gotten that pet? Maybe we wouldn't all get our pets from the same place we did this time, but that doesn't make anyone's pet less special or less valuable or any person here stupid. JMO

Thank you, Amy. You said what was on my heart. Do any of you wish me bad luck because I "bought" my first two Goldens, Honey and Lilly? I don't think so (at least I hope not). Would I be more careful next time? You had better believe it! But I wouldn't take anything for those two precious girls who fill our lives with so much good. After I became more knowledgable about rescue (didn't even know it existed when I got my first two Goldens), I became their greatest enthusiast! That's why Zipper is with us today. I'm sure somewhere back in my history at Pet Talk, I've said more than once that "my next dog will be one that needs me more than I need him/her". Zipper is that dog!!! He might be a purebred Golden Retriever, but all I know is that he is my special boy and so precious to me, just as my two cats of unknown origin are.

[aly]

Originally posted by Tonya
...if you've researched a breed, and you know that it is exactly what will fit into your home, you can't always find it at the shelter.

Thats not true at all - you can find any breed in shelters! I've seen sooo many purebreds in the shelters and rescues that I work with. If someone is determined enough, they can find what they want as a rescue. I know some are more rare than others, but still...

We've had the great breeder debate a lot on here so I don't really want to add anything else other than I am not trying to offend those of you who go to breeders.

I prefer to rescue. I always have and I always will - until there are no more little lost homeless dogs (or cats) getting killed every day.

[wolfsoul]

Originally posted by aly
Thats not true at all - you can find any breed in shelters! I've seen sooo many purebreds in the shelters and rescues that I work with. If someone is determined enough, they can find what they want as a rescue. I know some are more rare than others, but still...

I have to respectfully disagree...More often than not, any "rare breeds" that you find in a shelter aren't a rare breed at all, but a mix that just looks like the breed. I was on a rare breed forum a while back, and the number of people wanting or owning cane corsos and fila brasilieros was astounding, and I don't think that any of those people will find one or have bought one in a shelter..

[aly]

Originally posted by wolfsoul
I have to respectfully disagree...More often than not, any "rare breeds" that you find in a shelter aren't a rare breed at all, but a mix that just looks like the breed. I was on a rare breed forum a while back, and the number of people wanting or owning cane corsos and fila brasilieros was astounding, and I don't think that any of those people will find one or have bought one in a shelter..

There are some breeds that are just plain RARE. When I say you can find any breed in a shelter, I'm not talking about the few very rare ones that are hard to even find a breeder for. But those are dogs that the everage pet owner doesn't seek out in the first place.

~~~

As far as the child analogy, I think that is a totally different issue. I mean, there aren't children sitting in cages getting euthanized every day.

[mahayana]

I just read through this thread, and I think it touches on lots of interesting and important things. And a lot of it is "hot button" because we all feel bad or mad about the way animals get mistreated and the sad fact of landfills being the graveyards of countless collected strays.

I once made the outrageous suggestion that Koreans be allowed to collect the animals we kill at pounds and shetlers, and ship the meat back to Korea to feed starving children. Hope you all know that buddhists don't approve of this (every life is holy), I was just trying to make people think.

The overpopulation of pets, and the overpopulation of humans, are related topics, IMHO. One thing that shelters are doing right is spaying/neutering most of their charges. I will refrain from expounding on the human problem, except to say that China's "one child per couple" idea makes sense.

Blessings to all who adopt, all who ease the suffering of other sentient creatures.

[Pam]

Originally posted by wolf_Q
Honestly I'm glad that I raised my first siberian husky from a puppy. They are not always an easy breed to handle, I'm not sure if I would have been ready for an adult dog, especially one who may have had some issues to deal with. I feel NOW that I would be able to handle an adult dog and work through any issues.

What a responsible thing to say and I couldn't agree more. Not everyone is ready or suited to take on an adult dog with "issues." Five of my dogs came from breeders and all as puppies. Although Ripley (bless his little heart) came from the shelter I didn't have too many concerns about him and his ability to fit in with Bella. Also his size was another key factor because I knew that, at my age, I wouldn't be a good match with a large dog with baggage.

I have loved all of my dogs equally and do feel quite blessed to have found and rescued Ripley though as he is such a precious little guy. :) :)

Would I ever use a breeder again? Hard to say. I still have my "love affair from afar" going on when I see pugs. I have seen the pug rescues on the internet but unfortunately many are seniors or ill. When and if the time comes, I would check the shelters first but would not be opposed to going to a good breeder. The most important thing to me is the commitment that is made to the dog - whether from a breeder or a shelter - it's for life.

[Tonya]

Ok, a person can probably find any breed at a shelter. I'll admit that. And odds are high that they'll find a great match for their home.

But, let's say I run a daycare from my home. I really want a rottweiler. I've loved them all my life and wanted one since I was a little girl. I go to the shelters and all the rotts I see are to old to deal with the children, are aggressive, have excessive health problems, etc... I'd be a great pet owner, but I'm just really not in the condition to deal with a troubled animal with all these kids.

Would you rather see me take a chance and adopt a pet that I may wind up having to rehome because it didn't work out? Or would you rather see me research rott breeders and find a guaranteed match of exactly what I always wanted?

I know, it's a poor example. Give me a break, it's early in the morning and I haven't had my coffee. But I hope you get my drift. I'm all for rescues. That is always the first place I look and I've always found exactly what I wanted there. But some people are particular. I'd much rather see them get a wanted dog from a reputable breeder then wind up with a dog they don't want.

[Kfamr]

That's why you wait.
There's always one that comes along.

[Tonya]

I'm running out of arguments, darn it. lol.

[lovemyshiba]

Interesting that you use a rottie as an example......
I know we are lucky--we got Jada at the SPCA, and she is just about the sweetest thing on 4 legs. When we got her, our neighbors were not happy, but we brought her out to meet the kids, and all she could do was lick all of them. I know this is not always the case though, and we are fortunate to have such a sweet girl.

I like Amy's point about getting the experience of raising the dog from a puppy first (in her case, a husky). We had beagles all my life growing up, so I knew what to expect with Abbey. Riley was just a tiny pup when we got him, and he doesn't have a mean bone in his body. As for Jada, my husband raised 2 rotties before--and they are sweethearts too! I hadn't had the experience with a big dog like her in the past, but he has, and he just knew she was a great dog--and he was right!!!
Kito was 8 months when we got him. Shibas are a handful--I wish we had gotten him as a younger pup, so he could have been socialized better, BUT I wouldnt' trade him for the world.

As far as what the original post was about, maybe the person has good intentions, but cannot find what he or she wants at your local shelter. Maybe they knew that was what you wanted to hear. Everyone can't be convinced to adopt and rescue dogs.
I work with a guy who wanted a golden retriever pup. I gave him the number of the Golden rescue here, and at the time I know they had a litter of pups. Guess what? He drove an hour away and got a pup from a breeder. That doesn't make his dog any less of a beautiful wonderful pup, and it was his decision.

This argument could go on and on (and I have a feeling it might). The bottom line is, no matter how much we all advocate rescuing, unfortunately we can't control everyone to do the same.

[Corinna]

All of you have very valid points and I do very much advocate adoptions from shelters .I have rescued so many dogs in Fact Lady is the latest in a LONG line . What I got upset about was being called stupid becouse I took so long to find Merlin and bought him from a breeder. I waited and looked at shelters and different breeders you have NO idea how it killed me to leave each place knowing some of those dogs would end up in bad places, but I have a super high standard if I'm going to spend my money.Merlins human mom was a very nice and smart lady. 1 litter every 2-3 years and a list of buyers(both parents have earned lots of awards both in ring and in the feild) she uses the same male and he is the only female he breeds to. that is just one thing I was inpressed with. as I said before she went beyond my standard (hard to beleive my hubby thought we'd never get a dog) . But Merlin was the perfect little boy for us.

[pitbullmommy]

i understand that there are millions of dogs that need homes that are in shelters. but I still dont think that anyone should be degraded because of where they got there dog. I respect every persons opinion in here but dont think ANYONE is stupid. or any one that changes there mind. and you have to relize that it dose offend people even if you were not talking abot "that person".

I get offended if people talk bad about pitts. It is just a common reaction. Just like if someone told you you are stupid of haveing a child and not adopting one. I dont know it just really upset me.

and not all breeders are bad breeders. I know there are alot that are but not all of them.

[aly]

Originally posted by Tonya


But, let's say I run a daycare from my home. I really want a rottweiler. I've loved them all my life and wanted one since I was a little girl. I go to the shelters and all the rotts I see are to old to deal with the children, are aggressive, have excessive health problems, etc... I'd be a great pet owner, but I'm just really not in the condition to deal with a troubled animal with all these kids.

Would you rather see me take a chance and adopt a pet that I may wind up having to rehome because it didn't work out? Or would you rather see me research rott breeders and find a guaranteed match of exactly what I always wanted?


I would absolutely not want you to take a chance! I would want you to be patient and wait, because Rottie pups in shelters and rescues are not rare :)

(The rest of this post is not directed towards you, Tonya)
Why is everyone assuming that all adult shelter dogs must have issues. Its not like every shelter dog is vicious or will turn on you out of the blue. MANY, MANY, MANY of them are perfectly wonderful, loyal companions who have been thrown in there by their so-called "families" for stupid reasons like moving. Just as people who go to breeders should go to a responsible one, people who go to shelters should go to a responsible shelter who will tell you as much as they know about the dog's background info, etc.

And also, just because a puppy comes from a breeder does not mean it is guaranteed to be what you expected.

KayAnn, I LOVE THE PICTURE IN YOUR SIG!!!!!!

[mugsy]

Too true that the human and pet overpopulation are related. Too bad we can't spay and neuter some people.

This is not a good time for me to be posting on this since I am now working with a small shelter in northern Indiana with 3 dogs that are rotting in there because people won't adopt them.

You know, everyone has their opinions are entitled to them and people shouldn't be offended by people's opinions....they don't have to agree, just respect them. If you have a pure breed dog and someone says something about it....deal with it and ignore it. If you have shelter dogs and people say something about it....deal with it and ignore it. I know that I have a VERY difficult time keeping my mouth shut, but, I'm trying!!!! (Yes, I know....I'm VERY trying lol).

Like my friend Jackie said....until we spay and neuter our animals, the problem of stray dogs and cats will continue. The basis of the entire problem is that irresponsible people won't spay and neuter their pets.

I think the AKC contributes to the problem also by not checking the animals they register and more importantly, not allowing a spayed or neutered animal to be in the show ring....doesn't do much to further educating the public....:mad:

[Cataholic]

Originally posted by WolfChan
OK then....Why do people choose to have their OWN kids when there are THOUSANDS who desperately need homes up for adoption?! .


Well, DUH, Wolfchan, how would you ever get someone else's already born baby up inside your womb? (sad effort at a joke, I promise...)

[Pam]

Originally posted by Cataholic
Well, DUH, Wolfchan, how would you ever get someone else's already born baby up inside your womb? (sad effort at a joke, I promise...)

That went right over my head. :confused:

[Pam]

Originally posted by aly
Why is everyone assuming that all adult shelter dogs must have issues. Its not like every shelter dog is vicious or will turn on you out of the blue. MANY, MANY, MANY of them are perfectly wonderful, loyal companions who have been thrown in there by their so-called "families" for stupid reasons like moving.

Aly you are so right. I am sorry if my post was one that sounded like that. All I was trying to say is that, at my age, it was much easier for me to choose a breed that I was familiar with and also a size that was manageable for me. I know that the shelters are filled with lovable pupsters. I chose Ripley (or should I say that Ripley chose me) because of his loving little personality that was evident even inside that cage. I know there were many others there too that would make wonderful pets. I stand corrected! :)

[aly]

Oh no, I wasn't directing that at you, Pam. I don't really think I was directing it at anyone in particular even. Maybe I was talking to myself again :D

I am so glad Ripley has you. Your love has turned him from a scared little tumbleweed into a beautiful, happy, pampered doggie! And Bella and all your past Poodles are just as lucky!

As a side note, I've been trying to find you something that is really cute, but I can't find sizes big enough :( So maybe I'll just tell you about it and you can see if you have them there. Amy told me about this cute little dog shirt that Walmart has that says 'Attack Poodle'. I finally found one for Reece, but it is quite the snug fit (and its extra large :eek: :eek: :eek: ). I wasn't sure how much Ripely and Reece differ in size. And I doubt I'd ever find one big enough for beautiful Bella. Anyway, maybe your Walmart will have bigger sizes!

[lizbud]

riginally posted by aly



Why is everyone assuming that all adult shelter dogs must have issues. Its not like every shelter dog is vicious or will turn on you out of the blue. MANY, MANY, MANY of them are perfectly wonderful, loyal companions who have been thrown in there by their so-called "families" for stupid reasons like moving. Just as people who go to breeders should go to a responsible one, people who go to shelters should go to a responsible shelter who will tell you as much as they know about the dog's background info, etc.

And also, just because a puppy comes from a breeder does not mean it is guaranteed to be what you expected.



Aly, Thank you for emphasizing that shelter dogs for adoption
are not neurotic misfits and have not been abused. Neglected
& ignored surely, but entirely loveable & trainable.

All shelter dogs need is what any other dog needs to be a good
human companion, food, love & training and a chance. :)

[micki76]

Originally posted by aly
(The rest of this post is not directed towards you, Tonya)
Why is everyone assuming that all adult shelter dogs must have issues. Its not like every shelter dog is vicious or will turn on you out of the blue. MANY, MANY, MANY of them are perfectly wonderful, loyal companions who have been thrown in there by their so-called "families" for stupid reasons like moving. Just as people who go to breeders should go to a responsible one, people who go to shelters should go to a responsible shelter who will tell you as much as they know about the dog's background info, etc.

Not to mention the many, many puppies that are in the shelters. If you must have a puppy for whatever reason, why not go to a shelter for him/her?

I guess those of us who see the dogs day in and day out in the shelters and at the adopt a pets that we work, just don't understand your desire to buy from a breeder. I certainly don't mean to insult anyone, but the number of pets dying everyday is sickening, and to go out and buy from a breeder, a good one or a bad one, is just sad to me. :(

There is no specific breed that I want or need so badly that I would buy.

[lovemyshiba]

Originally posted by aly


Why is everyone assuming that all adult shelter dogs must have issues. Its not like every shelter dog is vicious or will turn on you out of the blue. MANY, MANY, MANY of them are perfectly wonderful, loyal companions who have been thrown in there by their so-called "families" for stupid reasons like moving.

I agree with you completely Aly. I have 2 perfect examples of wonderful "thrown away" dogs. Abbey was rescued from a shelter in Ohio and transported here to the beagle rescue, where we found her and gave her a home. The only "problem" I can imagine anyone having with her is her barking at nothing--she is a dog though, and it can be controlled.
As far as Jada is concerned, she is still a mystery. The SPCA had only had her for a day when we visited, and knew nothing about her, in fact, they thought she may be mean, because she growled at them. She was in heat at the time, and scared, and that may have been why. She's also a very vocal dog, and lets out lots of grumbles when she's getting petted or brushed--anything she loves!!!!!!
When I adopted Jada, I had a few people at work very concerned. One guy actually said, "Why would you get a rottie? I heard they can turn on their owners?":eek: Sure, but couldn't any dog if he or she was pushed far enough?
Again, I don't think we would have gotten a rottie had my husband not had them in the past, just because I didn't know much about them.

[Pam]

Originally posted by aly


Amy told me about this cute little dog shirt that Walmart has that says 'Attack Poodle'. I finally found one for Reece, but it is quite the snug fit (and its extra large :eek: :eek: :eek: ). I wasn't sure how much Ripely and Reece differ in size. And I doubt I'd ever find one big enough for beautiful Bella. Anyway, maybe your Walmart will have bigger sizes!

:) :) I remember when Amy posted a picture of Smokey (may he play happily ever after at the RB) wearing his. I think this shirt would only be appropriate for Ripley and only when Dale is around. :) If Ripley is on my lap and Dale gets too close he shows Dale every single one of his pearly whites! LOL! Unfortunately Dale couldn't read the shirt, but he would still get the message from the teeth! :D Strange, but when they are on the floor together Ripley is OK. He just thinks that his 15 lb. little self should protect me from 90+ lb. Dale when he gets too close. :p

[wolf_Q]

I'm sorry if my post made it sound like I think every dog in a shelter has issues. I really don't think that at all. I was meaning that for some people it may be easier to raise a dog that is difficult to handle from a pup. Then once you are familiar with the breed, you'd be prepared to get an adult dog. I'd had dogs all my life of course, but having two family dogs that are small (that I didn't feed or train) vs having your own dog that is large (to care for completely by yourself) is totally different! I was pretty overwhelmed by just a puppy! And I don't think getting a dog from a breeder is a necessary guarantee either. Nebo was a little *monster* as a puppy! And he's still a monster brat sometimes! :rolleyes:

Ugh but even with all that brattiness, I want another so badly....if only I had my own place, this would be Nebo's future sister. :( http://www.huskyhaven.org/pics_snowwhite.htm

[aly]

And just look at these two thrown away shelter dogs!

http://rescuedpaws.com/dogs///rlpat.jpg

GRRr, what the heck. I have [ img] and [ /img] (without the spaces) around that URL, but its not working!

[lovemyshiba]

Awwwwwwww!!!!!!
Reece and Lolly!!!!!!!
So cute!!!

How about these throw aways????
http://www.imagestation.com/picture/sraid91/p3fbaac1d843e633336c5a37e84a53a14/fa5bfc61.jpg

[lovemyshiba]

Originally posted by Pam
If Ripley is on my lap and Dale gets too close he shows Dale every single one of his pearly whites! LOL! Unfortunately Dale couldn't read the shirt, but he would still get the message from the teeth! :D Strange, but when they are on the floor together Ripley is OK. He just thinks that his 15 lb. little self should protect me from 90+ lb. Dale when he gets too close. :p

Kito does the same thing!!!
He doesn't guard toys or anything, but if someone gets too close to his mommy---LOOK OUT!!!!! You're bound to see those teeth, and hear some serious Shiba screams!!!!!!




my picture didn't work either aly :rolleyes:

[aly]

AWWWWW! I love how Kito removed himself from that love fest - HAHA!

[lovemyshiba]

Originally posted by aly
AWWWWW! I love how Kito removed himself from that love fest - HAHA!


lol, you can just see part of his fuzzy little bum!!!!

[CathyBogart]

*Chuckles* If someone finds me a shelter Bedlington puppy that does NOT carry Copper Toxicosis, I'll donate the $1200 I'm setting aside for my breeder puppy to that shelter! :-P

[Cincy'sMom]

Just another throw away....

http://www.imagestation.com/picture/sraid107/p5c8fedb877ef244ac1d745454d73ee79/f95b9edb.jpg

[Kfamr]

Both of mine were shelter pups. :)

[Pam]

Since Ripley was a stray, I guess he could be called "a walk away." :(
Ripley's shelter pic...
http://img27.photobucket.com/albums/v80/Belrip/shelter.jpg
And more recently...
Decked out in his NASCAR finery :)
http://www.imagestation.com/picture/sraid65/p6a849f028f1aca7f9278343736537fda/fbe8d19e.jpg
GRRR....Imagestation is giving me a headache! :(

[popcornbird]

I think Karen and Paul need to enable picture posting in the Dog House. It never works in the Dog House........ever......so I'm assuming posting pics is disabled for the Dog House board. :confused:

[Pam]

PCB you know you are right! Dumb dumb me never realized that my Photobuckets pic didn't show up either. So it isn't Imagestation? (Slinks off feeling silly....)

[popcornbird]

Originally posted by Pam
PCB you know you are right! Dumb dumb me never realized that my Photobuckets pic didn't show up either. So it isn't Imagestation? (Slinks off feeling silly....)

:D :p

He he

Poor imagestation got blamed for nothing.

[CamCamPup33]

Originally posted by Amber
Okay, Im sorry. Im just upset, how this thread came out. And yes I need to cool down., Please splash some water on me.

I just wondered how someone who has there heart set on a shelter dog, but then goes off and gets a breeder dog. :confused:

I can tell you *EXACTLY* why..

Someone may say that they have their heart set on getting a dog from the shelter, but what if they happen to go.... see a sign or something that says 'PUPPIES FOR SALE' and they go to it.. They may want a puppy from the shelter, but one of these puppies from a breeder may be the one that was 'meant to be' for you.. I mean, *Sorry this is gonna be about MY dog for a second* when i got cami, i saw plenty of other puppies as cute as cami, but only cami grabbed my heart, :) That probably makes no sense at all, and if it doesn't, sorry for my input.. :o lol

[lizbud]

Originally posted by CamCamPup33
I can tell you *EXACTLY* why..

Someone may say that they have their heart set on getting a dog from the shelter, but what if they happen to go.... see a sign or something that says 'PUPPIES FOR SALE' and they go to it.. They may want a puppy from the shelter, but

CamCamPup33,

I'm supposing they would never go to see the "puppies for
sale" if a person REALLY wanted to get a dog from a Shelter.

I'm also supposing that whomever adopts the dog is an adult
that can fully support & care for the dog themselves & not
depend on any one else to do it.

In this discussion, I've only been thinking of adults who would be
ultimately responsible for the choice.:)

[ParNone]

I dunno. Am I the only one that researches and analyzes to death and agonizes over choosing the right dog (more or less losing sleep over the decision)? I am so paranoid of making a mistake and having a nitemare on my hands and it would absolutely kill me if I ever had to give away a dog. I feel I have limitations on dog experience and training ability, that I have to be very careful. I see all the behaviorial issues on this forum and others, that people have to deal with and after Oz, I just know it doesn't have to be that way. I look at other dogs, but I find myself circling back around to Smooth Collies.

And this may be veering a lil' off the subject, but my only possibility, slim though it may be (in 2 yrs, I think I've seen 2 smoothies in rescue here), to get a Smoothie is through rescue (I've yet to see one at the shelters here) and I seriously doubt they're going to adopt to me, regardless of the fact that I have two of the happiest, most well adjusted guys you'd ever want to meet. I work all day and even though they're mostly inside dogs, I will leave them unsupervised in the backyard, fenced though it may be. So I usually just look at the dogs in shelters vs rescue, but that leads to a whole scary unknown factor, of what their temperaments and health might be.

I dunno we had a nitemare dog when I was a kid and I do not want to relive that experience. I have stressful job, so I really don't need a stressful home life. I give Oz and Murph big ole kisses on the head first thing everyday when I get home for being so wonderful.

Par...

[aly]

It just makes me sad that you think nightmare dogs come from shelters :( :(

Not every shelter dog's background is unknown. At my shelter, the previous owners fill out a 6 page questionaire of the background of the dog. Sure we don't have those on every dog, but still.

Also, when we have dogs with unknown backgrounds, we (volunteers and staff) start taking the dog on outings, home visits, overnights, foster rotations, etc so we can evaluate the behavior and start getting the dog acclimated to life outside of the shelter.

Researching a breed is good, but there comes a point where you also have to evaluate the individual personality of the dog. It is definately good to know what the breed is prone to, but SO much diversity exists between individuals.

[lizbud]

Originally posted by aly

Not every shelter dog's background is unknown. At my shelter, the previous owners fill out a 6 page questionaire of the background of the dog. Sure we don't have those on every dog, but still.

Also, when we have dogs with unknown backgrounds, we (volunteers and staff) start taking the dog on outings, home visits, overnights, foster rotations, etc so we can evaluate the behavior and start getting the dog acclimated to life outside of the shelter.

Researching a breed is good, but there comes a point where you also have to evaluate the individual personality of the dog. It is definately good to know what the breed is prone to, but SO much diversity exists between individuals.


I usually don't quote an entire statement, but this bears
repeating. Amen Aly.....:)

Every reputable Shelter & Humane Society temperment test all
the dogs who might be questionable for adoption. Their aim is
to find a good match between the person & the dog. They sure
won't push a dog that's clearly not right for each individual
person or family wanting a dog. People are encouraged to walk
a prospective adoptee dog & also bring their home dogs to meet
the new dog in a neutral setting. Reputable Shelters want the
new dog to have a forever home & will even work with helping
with the transiton from shelter to home enviroment. :)

[lizbud]

Another Humane Society dog, Buddy, the best dog ever.:)


http://www.imagestation.com/picture/sraid107/p2b1c9312a0628a23595ea133b83adc8a/f96194d4.jpg

[ParNone]

I guess I didn't word that right, because I didn't mean to say every dog from a shelter is a nitemare. It has more to do with my insecurity. I look at you and lizbud and think you guys are great trainers and know any dog y'all had would be great. Then I look at the people with dog issues and I keep thinking there for the grace of a good choice would be me. So I know if I stick with a certain breed and go to a reputable breeder they're going to help me pick the right dog. I dunno the shelter is an unknown for me and is scary for me. It's a mental thing of not wanting to make mistake.

[GoldenRetrLuver]

Originally posted by ParNone
I guess I didn't word that right, because I didn't mean to say every dog from a shelter is a nitemare. It has more to do with my insecurity. I look at you and lizbud and think you guys are great trainers and know any dog y'all had would be great. Then I look at the people with dog issues and I keep thinking there for the grace of a good choice would be me. So I know if I stick with a certain breed and go to a reputable breeder they're going to help me pick the right dog. I dunno the shelter is an unknown for me and is scary for me. It's a mental thing of not wanting to make mistake.

My mom is like that. Which is probably why as long as I'm still living with them, we won't adopt from a shelter.
A few years ago, we adopted a 10 month old Australian Shepherd mix we named Bandit at a local adoption fair. I've posted a few pictures of him on here before. He had the sweetest personality, but I'm sorry to say, was untrainable. I know most of you will say 'No dog is untrainable' but trust me, he was. We worked with him for MONTHS on basic obedience and none of it sank in. My parents just got fed up one day when he tore a wire out of the wall, and attacked Molly for no apparent reason. If we had known he was aggressive towards other dogs (AND food aggressive) we wouldn't have gotten him....plain and simple.
I was very sad to see him go. I cried on the way over to the shelter, when we dropped him off, and back. I still have his collar and name tag. Don't get me wrong, I loved him with all my heart, but sometimes those things can turn into a big hassle when you've been trying for so long and see no improvement...

The way I see it with breeders is, most of them help you pick the right dog; and you can train it, and socialize it from Day 1 while he/she is still young.

Please don't make it out that I hate shelter dogs...because that's entirely not true. I know that and can see that from most of the people on this board. :)

[ParNone]

Hey Goldenretrluver,

You know I keep looking at the Aussies on petfinder. I really seem to be attracted to them. I'd actually sent an email on the most cutest Aussie/Collie mix you ever saw, but she was already adopted. And I found an Aussie/Catahoula mix that I was so drawn too, I actually went down to the adoption center to talk to them, which was a Huge step for me. She ended up being adopted already too. During all this I keep having a friend warn me against Aussies and then my agility trainer the other night was really telling me I need to be real careful if I planned on getting an Aussie. And now I hear your story. See just makes me worry more about my judgement.

Par...

[Cincy'sMom]

Originally posted by ParNone
I dunno. Am I the only one that researches and analyzes to death and agonizes over choosing the right dog (more or less losing sleep over the decision)? I am so paranoid of making a mistake and having a nitemare on my hands and it would absolutely kill me if I ever had to give away a dog. I feel I have limitations on dog experience and training ability, that I have to be very careful. I see all the behaviorial issues on this forum and others, that people have to deal with and after Oz, I just know it doesn't have to be that way. I look at other dogs, but I find myself circling back around to Smooth Collies.


Par...

I know exactly what you mean. I was never sure I could adopt a dog, esp an older dog from a shelter. Not knowing their background scared me...not knowing how they were trained (if they were) as a puppy. Esp. after we got Sadie, I did not want to bring in a dog with severe issues, nor did I want to have to give a dog back.

And then along came Spot. We agreed to take him to save his life, but we didn't know if he was staying. We went into it thinking he may be a foster. Within 24 hours, that idea was out of our head....we was here to stay, a decision we have not regreted at all in the last year. And honestly, he was the easiest dog to bring into our home...no housebreaking, no training from scratch (just refreshing and building) no puppy cries the frist nights away from momma.

I can't say where all my future dog will come from, or what age they will be, but through Spot, my mom's dogs and many other PT dogs I am not nearly as nervous about adopting through rescue. I have seen how wonderful these dog truely are and how apprecitive they are of having a good home.

[Kfamr]

Would you just LOOK at these nightmares!
http://img2.photobucket.com/albums/v11/nalasimmy/vday/4.jpg

I can't imagine why anyone would want to go to the shelter for these guys. Bleck! :eek:
:p





About not getting a dog from the shelter, not knowing if they're going to be a "nightmare" or not, that's why I always recommend that people go as often as the can to the shelters, interact with the dogs, take them out if possible. Patience is the key. Just like it is when you actually find "the one" to come home with you.


With that said, My neighbor bought a Lab puppy (Gunner) from a gooed, responsible breeder. She's far more of a "nightmare" than Nala ever was or is at her age.

[lovemyshiba]

I don't look down on anyone who doesn't get their dogs from a shelter--I don't want it to seem as if I am saying that, because that's not the case at all.
I admire everyone who does all of the research into the breeds they own, and gives them a loving wonderful home.
I have had great success in rescuing dogs, everyone may not be so lucky.

To be honest with you, I was scared to death to get Jada. I had never had a rottweiler, and it took a lot of smooth talking on my husband's part to get her into this house. I was torn, because I knew a grown up rottweiler wouldn't last long in the shelter, but yet I was afraid to have her in my house.
I was even afraid of her at first, and didn't want to be left home alone with her--but she gained my trust, and I love her so much.

[Twisterdog]

Originally posted by Kfamr
About not getting a dog from the shelter, not knowing if they're going to be a "nightmare" or not, that's why I always recommend that people go as often as the can to the shelters, interact with the dogs, take them out if possible. Patience is the key. Just like it is when you actually find "the one" to come home with you.

With that said, My neighbor bought a Lab puppy (Gunner) from a gooed, responsible breeder. She's far more of a "nightmare" than Nala ever was or is at her age.



I totally agree with you. I board and groom thousands and thousands of dogs every year, and I can tell you without a doubt, that the worst "nightmares" I've ever seen were purebreds from BYB's and puppy mills. Hands down, no contest.


If you have your heart set on an otterhound or a Dandie Dinmont terrier .... no, you are probably not going to find one in rescue or shelter. It's not impossible, but highly unlikely. Then, buy one from a reputable breeder. That's fine.

And, if you are into conformation showing ... and by that I mean truly dedicated and informed, not just thinking about it or dabbling around in it ... then, of course, you would want a top of the line, unaltered, show-quality dog from a top breeder. But, that's probably about what .... 1% of the dog-owning population, if that?

However, IMO, if you are looking for a lab or a golden retriever, for example ... there are literally tens of thousands of these dogs of all ages, both sexes, in every town in the nation looking for a home - at shelters, rescues, dog pounds, etc. I personally do not feel there is any excuse for buying a popular breed from a breeder when thousands of them are dying every day for simple lack of homes. I know I personally couldn't live with myself if I bought a fox terrier from a breeder, knowing that tomorrow one will die across town at animal control.

[Twisterdog]

And here are my ten "nightmares", all of them shelter or rescue dogs... notice them disobeying, tearing up the house and eating small children.

[wolfsoul]

I don't believe that Parnone was calling any dog a nightmare, but rather comparing what might be a terrible situation with a nightmare. :)

[Tonya]

To be honest, my Rainbow Bridge, Rosco was a nightmare. I got him as a 5 week old puppy at the pound. I dealt with skin disorders, ear infections, anxiety issues, parvo, worms, and severe agressiveness. I eventually had to put him to sleep which was the most heart breaking and painful decision that I have ever made.

The day I put Rosco down...this was my exact words..."I swear that I will never ever ever again get a dog without a background. For now on, all my dogs will come from a reputable breeder with perfect history. This is hurting way to much to take another chance."

Of course, just after 5 days,my heart ache and the pain of seeing Dusty depressed was to great and it outmeasured my fear. I rescued Roxy about a week after I put Rosco down.

I will always encourage rescue. And my first choice will always be rescue. But from my experience with Rosco, that unbearable pain and suffering that we both went through, I can understand a person wanting to go through a reputable breeder.



Please hear me that I'm not saying that rescue is bad. I have enough sense to not let one bad experience change my opinion, but it does make me more sensitive towards rescue vs. breeding.

[guster girl]

Well, I bought my dog, who is a labrador retriever, from a breeder, and, I'm not ashamed that I did. I can certainly live with myself. I personally look at it this way, if you fall in love with an animal, give it a good home. I can't imagine where Finn would have ended up had I not taken him in. he could very well have ended up in a shelter. I've gone to shelters in the past, and, just hadn't clicked or connected with any dog, including several labradors. Yeah, ideally, in a perfect world, we would not even have to worry about shelter animals. But, in my opinion, as long as you get the pet you want and give it the best life you possibly can, that's what's the most important part. In a perfect world, again, everyone would do a lot differently, including people who rescue animals from shelters. There are millions of animals that die horrible deaths so that we may eat them, and, I'd be willing to bet that a lot of the strongly opinionated people looking down on those that buy from breeders chow down on animal flesh just as often as I do. I don't drink cow's milk, and, hardly eat red meat, but, I still eat chicken, cheese, eggs...etc. I just don't think it's appropriate to say truly hateful things about people that don't have rescue pets. Sorry if that was a little confusing, it's late. :)

[ParNone]

Hi again,

I hope you guys are not getting from my posts that I'm anti-rescue. I look everyday at petfinder with the hope that I can find the right dog for me. And if I find her, I'll take that step and rescue. But there's a strong possibility that I could get another Smooth Collie from a breeder too. Remember I have Oz already, so it's going to be pretty well impossible for y'all to convince me that Smooth Collies are bad, with examples of bad purebreeds. I know that's a safe choice for me. May not be the right choice for somebody else, but I know they're the right choice for me. I've got a dog that has zero people or dog aggression. That can be left uncrated in the house while I'm at work, without worry of coming home to destruction or potty accidents. That I can let off leash and know he's gonna stick near me and come back when I call. That watches out for me and Murph and lets me know when there's something amiss in the house. Who's up for a good play session or a good ole nap, whichever, he just goes along with whatever I'm doing. So it's very hard for me not to be drawn back to this breed. Hopefully people aren't going to hold that against me if I go that route.

Thanks to y'all who understood what I was trying to say.

Par...

[micki76]

Originally posted by ParNone
I've got a dog that has zero people or dog aggression. That can be left uncrated in the house while I'm at work, without worry of coming home to destruction or potty accidents. That I can let off leash and know he's gonna stick near me and come back when I call. That watches out for me and Murph and lets me know when there's something amiss in the house. Who's up for a good play session or a good ole nap, whichever, he just goes along with whatever I'm doing.

And all we're tying to say is that you can find ALL of that in a shelter dog, too.

Chester didn't come from a shelter and is slightly dog aggressive, though I'm teaching not to be and it's going very well. He just growls the first couple of minutes and then settles down for the most part now. Millie is the only one who will stay by my side unleashed, and I prefer them on a leash anyway.

JMO

[aly]

I'm not tryng to talk you out of a Smooth Collie. If you want another Smooth Collie, I say go for it! And whether you end up rescung or buying from a breeder, I am sure that dog will have a wonderful life with you.

And here comes the but ...

You got a wonderful dog in Oz, but then you are generalizing the whole breed based on him. If you think that every dog you get from a Smooth Collie breeder will be as wonderful as him, you'd be wrong. I'm sure you don't assume that, but I'm pointing it out for argument's sake. Dogs have personalities like people and even if a litter is carefully bred, it can still produce some little stinkers. Also, when you buy (or adopt) an 8 week old puppy, you can't truly see the dog's true personality since they are still babies. MOST of it depends on how you raise them, socialize them, and train them, but there are those exceptions.

The reason Oz is so wonderful is because of how you brought him up. I am confident you could do the same for a shelter puppy.

With that said, if you're drawn to the breed and want another, then thats what you should get for sure! I'm not trying to convince you of anything other than the fact that there are wonderful dogs in shelters and a majority of them don't come with the baggage it seems everyone is thinking they do.

[2kitties]

Is this horse still moving? Can anybody see if this horse is still moving? Put a mirror in front of its nose. Is it still breathing.

Me thinks the horse is dead. Let's stop beating it.

[aly]

I don't think its dead.

Looks like we're having a constructive conversation with no mean spirited arguments, so maybe thats why you think its boring :p

[2kitties]

Aly, I'm not sure how to take that other than to feel you are being mean spirited toward me and I can't ever recall being mean spirited toward you or anyone else. But I'll let it go. I was making a joke. I will stay out of your conversation.

[lizbud]

Originally posted by aly
I don't think its dead.

Looks like we're having a constructive conversation with no mean spirited arguments, so maybe thats why you think its boring :p


I agree. Maybe some folks believe all dog house topics
should be contentious & argumentative. Not so, if you don't
want to participate in the discussion, then don't.:p

I did want to say to Par, that no one will feel less of you if you
get a dog from a breeder. I know I won't. Just want to help
disppell the myth of the" horrible misfits" animals that come
to homes from a Shelter or Humane Society. Every dog can be
a joy or a problem whether they come from breeder or Shelter.

[aly]

2K, there is nothing "mean spirited" about me.

I felt you were bringing down a constructive conversation is all. As lizbud said, if you don't like the conversation or are bored, you don't have to read it or participate in it.

[2kitties]

Twas my feeble attempt at wittiness. Clearly not a talent for me. I will leave the wittiness to Richard from now on.:)

[RICHARD]

Originally posted by 2kitties
Twas my feeble attempt at wittiness. Clearly not a talent for me. I will leave the wittiness to Richard from now on.:)

Would you like to study at the knee of the master?

Course material on VHS or DVD is available.


send 199.95 to

Become Easily Amused
PO box 5555
Easily Amused, CA 90000

:rolleyes:

------------------------

One interesting thing I have noticed that others may not....

All animals have personalities and traits that are as varied as the ones that humans have.

Edward does not like to have his belly rubbed.
Unless I feel comfortable with you, I really feel awkward hugging people.

Call them foibles, quirks, idiosyncrasies...

All animals are diverse as we are.

[Kfamr]

Originally posted by ParNone
I've got a dog that has zero people or dog aggression. That can be left uncrated in the house while I'm at work, without worry of coming home to destruction or potty accidents. That I can let off leash and know he's gonna stick near me and come back when I call. That watches out for me and Murph and lets me know when there's something amiss in the house. Who's up for a good play session or a good ole nap, whichever, he just goes along with whatever I'm doing. So it's very hard for me not to be drawn back to this breed.




And that has nothing to do with his breed, where he comes from, or where he was born.



That has to do with, LOVE, Patience, and Training. any dog, coming from the side of to road or coming from the BEST breeder in the wolrd, could be EXACTLY like that. Whether it's a Mutt, a Boxer, or a Collie.


It's not who they are, or where they came from. It's how you treat them, how you raise them. And how you train them.


Nala is exactly like your decription. I may not know her background, but that doesn't matter anymore to us. either of us, any of us. she's my dog, always will be. She came from the shelter when she was 8 weeks old. Yes, she had colds and illnesses when she came in to the shelter, but does that mean sh can't be "as good" as a pure bred Collie, or any top show dog in the world? I think not.

Simba seems to have some slight dog/people aggression. Not so much aggression, but he'd rather just people and other dogs leave him be. Other than that he fit the whole description.
He also came from the shelter, when he was 4 months old. He was 8 months old when we adopted him, so he had lived for 4 months in the shelter.
He bit my mom twice the first week or so we had him. He'd run every time he saw her. and she'd walk the otherway. This was my FIRST dog. I took care of neighbors dogs constantly, but this first of my own. Back then I had NO clue of what a breeder was. All I ever knew was the shelter.
But, we gave Simba out Time, patience, and love - look at him now. He's come a long, long way. He's put up with watching two puppies grow up. He's put up with little kids pulling his ears and whatnot. He's put up with everything i've wanted him to.

I'm rambling on, but it just goes to show that the breed, place, or wherever you get them from doesn't always necessarily matter.

I'd personally rather have a dog you have to work for it's love, gain it's trust. It's so much rewarding looking at one of my pups, and to think how much they've changed. Simba, over th years.. and Nala in just one year. Whether you call that a "nightmare" or not.... They're the best dogs I could ever ask for, and I didn't have to pay hundreds, thousands of dollar the first day. I donated.



(I'm sorry if any of that came across as snippy or rude, it's exactly how I feel at the moment, and I just woke up.)

[Pam]

Originally posted by RICHARD

Edward does not like to have his belly rubbed.
Unless I feel comfortable with you, I really feel awkward hugging people.

Richard for a minute I thought you were going to say YOU like your belly rubbed. I was hoping we weren't going to go there! :p :o

[RICHARD]

Originally posted by Pam
Richard for a minute I thought you were going to say YOU like your belly rubbed. I was hoping we weren't going to go there! :p :o



I finally looked up the word "decorum".:cool: ;) :D

That, and I know better.

[Pam]

:D :D :D

[Cincy'sMom]

Originally posted by lizbud
I agree. Maybe some folks believe all dog house topics
should be contentious & argumentative. Not so, if you don't
want to participate in the discussion, then don't.:p

I did want to say to Par, that no one will feel less of you if you
get a dog from a breeder. I know I won't. Just want to help
disppell the myth of the" horrible misfits" animals that come
to homes from a Shelter or Humane Society. Every dog can be
a joy or a problem whether they come from breeder or Shelter.

Well said on both points Liz!

[shais_mom]

Would it be to bad to post another pic of a ''throw away''?
This one was found running out in the woods after the local yocal coon dog trials..... My heart, my soul, my life dog.......
http://www.imagestation.com/mypictures/inbox/view.html?id=4215198805&url=http%3A//www.imagestation.com/picture/sraid77/p3e2b8c6a4771731c8d62a3bc58d62ae1/fb3ed455.jpg&caption=s&album_id=4290621155&from_album=1


I only got Keegan from a BYB b/c a friend of mine owned the sire and she felt bad for me when my Shaianne died and told me I can have the puppy if I wanted it.
How could I turn down this face?
http://www.imagestation.com/mypictures/inbox/view.html?id=4189395102&url=http%3A//www.imagestation.com/picture/sraid102/pafcf889aa4bd08549b7fcde08d1ec770/f9b5189e.jpg&caption=sl&album_id=4287780635&from_album=1

http://www.imagestation.com/mypictures/inbox/view.html?id=4189398821&url=http%3A//www.imagestation.com/picture/sraid102/p4745e2dfaf65842d0de601c849346d30/f9b52725.jpg&caption=k10&album_id=4287780635&from_album=1
not sure which links will work....
I have every intention of my next dog will be from the shelter or pound.
I unlike Amy when I got my first dog wanted an adult that was already grown and didn't have to go thru the puppystage. But when I got Keegan I wanted a puppy. And boy oh boy did I get one!!!
;)

[ParNone]

Just want to say, I'm glad this thread lived on a lil' longer. I think overall it's been a wonderful discussion. Thanks for the vote of confidence guys. I still think it's more Oz than me, because Murph and Maddie don't behave that much like Oz. Well they're all 3 people friendly to the max, which is probably me, but I think the dog aggression from M&M is definitely a terrier thing. And since I want to do agility with this dog too, it's definitely a trait I'd like to avoid. It makes things less stressful, if you don't have to worry about your dog attacking somebody elses. Anyway I'll continue my search and I may even ask for some advice if locate a puppy that feels right. If I could find a smoothie in a shelter, that would be ideal.

Par...

[wolfsoul]

Par, there's a collie rescue here in Kelowna that often has smooth collies. ;)