Thanks for the information lots of good stuff to think about.... I actually have pretty much decided against the breeder stuff as well from different things I have came across on my own... one is who do you trust.. as you said. so maybe if they breed cats/dogs they can leave a card on a bulletin board maybe and if people are interested then they can use that and they are on their own. so good advice!Originally Posted by Giselle
I'm mostly interested into animal welfare, so I was intrigued by your concept of post-adoption/breeder supportI've had a family member try this out (helping people find breeders), and it's usually not a good idea. The reason being is that you will get a myriad of bad breeders who can easily deceive you. Once that breeder is in your good favor, you're sending them a constant supply of customers. Also, reputable breeders don't often breed year round, so it's unlikely that you'll be able to find a perfect match for all of the prospective puppy buyers. It can be discouraging for both parties and the plan might even backfire! However, if you really want prospective buyers to meet breeders in person, direct them to the breed club of America and keep an updated book of performance events (agility shows, conformation shows, herding trials, lure coursing events, earthdog trials, etc). This will give them a chance to see what certain breeds are really like, without the possibility of endorsing a less-than-reputable breeder. All the benefits without the risks! =)
Have you thought about specializing in a certain area? I like holistic feed stores, but they're often too boutique-y and froo-froo for me. Maybe you could be the rare down-to-earth, straight-to-the-point pet shop that supplies holistic feed without all the lace and frills. Not that frills are a bad thing
ETA: I'm attaching the link of a chain feed store that really exceeds all standards. IMO, it's the epitome of a good, reliable pet store =)
http://petfoodexpress.com/petfood/index.asp
I do want to do my best to make sure I follow up with a call even if they buy a gerbil just to see how things are going and if they have any questions. I know I have had pets in the past that I have gotten out of the excited omg they are so cute stage then get them home and go OK NOW WHAT DO I DO WITH THIS THING? course that was when I was younger and didnt have my own zoo ha! I plan on having sheets to give out for each animal on some do's and don'ts just for the customer when they leave the store. Last year I was going to get a couple chinchillas and I ended up rescueing 2 ferrets so I waited on the chinchillas. I have always wanted a chinchilla but I am glad I waited before jumping in. I always thought they were adorable but never really researched them. Then right before we bought one I did do the research then I found out for example they shouldnt get wet... and if they do make sure they really get COMPLETELY dry or they could end up with a fungus because of the way their hair folicals grow. But I ended up getting my Taz and Zoe (ferrets) instead but I am still thankful that I did the research. so I want to make sure that I have that kind of infomation available before they walk out the door. I dont want anything bad happening that I COULD have prevented by giving just a little advice.
When Taz got sick I called my normal vet, guess what... he did not specialize in them but he did send me to another vet and he was wonderful, unfortunately tazzy didnt make it and had cancer and had to be put to sleep a few weeks later. so I want to make sure I know also for the animals that I would carry on who does best for that breed.
thanks again for the advice... I am on lunch hr but will take a look at the site when I get home tonight to read up on it.
Kim
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