In my adult life that I have lived by myself I have/had 2 dogs and 1 cat. Both dogs have been purebred. The cat is a barn cat mix with maybe a little maine coon along the lines. I 'rescued' her from a friend from work when her boyfriend/now fiance' who didn't like her b/c of her long white hair threw her into the wall. I couldn't have asked for a nicer, more loving cat. I wouldn't change it for the world. And I sure as heck wouldn't give her back.
Now my dogs:
Almost 3 years ago I went to the humane society looking for a small scruffy Benji like dog that I could have in my small house with medium sized yard. I didn't take into account that I would be looking into the warm, fawnlike eyes of a breed I have never seen before. Greyhound. Looking into those eyes stole my heart never to get it back.
Looking into her face, I had no choice but to take her home. Shaianne was my dog of a lifetime my first love, she made me the person I am now. When God decided to call her home to help him 9-13-02, I was devastated. I wanted to die and go with her. I just wanted her back. I miss her everyday and think of her everyday.
When one of my sweet friends told me they had a litter of golden retriever's on the way and I could have their puppy b/c they didn't have anyone to give it too. I essentially 'rescued' her. Or so I like to think. I guess it makes me feel better. I would have never, ever paid money like that for a dog. I had every intention of going to the shelter and looking again for another 'dog'.
But I figger I saved Keegan from ending up in the shelter.
When I went to the shelter 3 years ago there were more purebreed dogs there then mutts/mixes. I never would have thought I would have a purebreed dog let alone a greyhound or a golden.
I agree with responsible breeding. People don't think these days. Nor do they care too. When I made the comment about getting Keegan spayed a lady from work says "oh you shouldn't do that, let her have some puppies, it will make them better dogs. Our dog is so old now her last litter only had one puppy." Like this is a good thing? hello?!
duh!
I argued about the risk of cancer, etc having a dog in heat in the house etc. And she ignored me. Whatever. Obviously she with 4-5 kids and an outside dog doesn't look at her dog like I look at mine!
I think there are good breeders and bad breeders. You can find a pure breed at the shelter but it may not be what you want. If you want to know the bloodlines and health or want a rare or hard to find breed then go for it. The fact of the matter is you are getting a friend for life and that is what matter's.
Presley, Thank God you didn't leave. I would miss seeing Presley's precious face! I think you did everything exactly right and with the seizures that Presley has had it is a good thing you got her when you did!
Power Lounger, welcome! We are a wonderful group of people that I wouldn't change for the world!