recent observation-

[magicgenie]

Now that I'm requiring references up front, I'm getting far fewer puppy inquiries. I'm not sorry about this, but very curious.

[ColesMommy01]

I'm not a breeder (yet) but what do you mean by references? Vet, character, etc? Some people see that as an intrusion. Personally, I wouldn't mind giving references but I'd have to have more than one/two conversations with someone then supply them with the info. But I understand if you'd want the references upfront to weed out undesirable potential buyers.

[KazzyK810]

Originally Posted by ColesMommy01

I'm not a breeder (yet) but what do you mean by references? Vet, character, etc? Some people see that as an intrusion. Personally, I wouldn't mind giving references but I'd have to have more than one/two conversations with someone then supply them with the info. But I understand if you'd want the references upfront to weed out undesirable potential buyers.

i'd see it as intrusion too. Well maybe not so much intrusion, but a trust issue. Its like when looking for a job, my references are entrusting me with their personal contact information, so I'm not handing that over to just anyone, and you definitely don't supply them with a job application. Unless an offer is pending, you don't get my references. For me, It would be the same buying a pup.

[Yorkiemom1]

My prospective buyers first fill out an interview application....I go over that and contact them with any questions or concerns I may have.....some people do things they just do not realize can be a danger to a small dog. In my application, my request for references are first and foremost, a vet reference and/or a groomer, anyone else that they may have a professional relationship with that would verify that this person is trustworthy and responsible. Personal references, like friends or relatives or co workers, have always been contacted by the potential buyer BEFORE they are listed on the application....that is their responsibility to clear that reference before they list them.....just like ever other reference anyone gives for job interviews, etc.....you always check with people before you list them as references! I have not had anyone tell me they think my application and request for references is an intrusion.....just as anyone can check MY references, my vet, etc on line., they are scrutinizing ME as a reputable breeder. Just like THEY dont want to get stuck with a sick baby and a breeder that disappears on them, I dont want to send my baby to someone that can not/will not afford the $$$$ to provide medical care for the puppy, or they are not set up to provide care for a puppy, etc. Some people are all excited about getting a baby.....until it cries all night long for several of nights, maybe it has an issue with potty accidents, and the newness, the excitement, the thrill of having a new puppy suddenly sux! My buyer's references are every bit as important to me as MY reputation and ethics and honesty are important to any buyer. If they dont like me, they can choose another breeder.....if I dont think they are suitable to have one of my babies, I dont approve the application.

It has been my personal experience over the years, that people think they have the right to know everything about me and my breeding program and everything I do in relation to my business, (which is actually accurate) but occasionally, they do not think I have the responsibility to screen buyers for my voiceless babies.....my babies DEPEND on ME to put them in situations that are best for them.....that is a responsibility I take seriously, without reservation!

My owners stay in contact with me for many years....I have only lost contact with maybe 4 people, from out of State.... I have never regretted sending out any of my babies to any of the buyers that have come to me for a puppy.....I know them well and they know me...I always refer to us as the "extended RHG (Rosehill Gang) family.....and it is all good!

[107barney]

I filled out a lengthy application to adopt from my rescue because they want to break the cycle and make a forever home. But, with cash in hand to buy from a breeder, I don't feel like being scrutinized. I know I'm a good home and if the idiot selling me the dog can't figure it out then I'll be on my way to the next breeder.

[ColesMommy01]

I will say my breeder did ask me questions and we had lengthy conversations before I was even invited to her home to look at puppies. It wasn't a hi, hello, here's your money, there's your puppy, bye sort of thing. Maybe because I'm a bit private with certain info when I don't know someone well *shrug*. I didn't fill out any applications thankfully because I hate them(reminds me of university applications ), but the questioning felt more natural and relaxed even though we were essentially conducting business.

[smelcerk]

Originally Posted by Yorkiemom1

My prospective buyers first fill out an interview application....I go over that and contact them with any questions or concerns I may have.....some people do things they just do not realize can be a danger to a small dog. In my application, my request for references are first and foremost, a vet reference and/or a groomer, anyone else that they may have a professional relationship with that would verify that this person is trustworthy and responsible. Personal references, like friends or relatives or co workers, have always been contacted by the potential buyer BEFORE they are listed on the application....that is their responsibility to clear that reference before they list them.....just like ever other reference anyone gives for job interviews, etc.....you always check with people before you list them as references! I have not had anyone tell me they think my application and request for references is an intrusion.....just as anyone can check MY references, my vet, etc on line., they are scrutinizing ME as a reputable breeder. Just like THEY dont want to get stuck with a sick baby and a breeder that disappears on them, I dont want to send my baby to someone that can not/will not afford the $$$$ to provide medical care for the puppy, or they are not set up to provide care for a puppy, etc. Some people are all excited about getting a baby.....until it cries all night long for several of nights, maybe it has an issue with potty accidents, and the newness, the excitement, the thrill of having a new puppy suddenly sux! My buyer's references are every bit as important to me as MY reputation and ethics and honesty are important to any buyer. If they dont like me, they can choose another breeder.....if I dont think they are suitable to have one of my babies, I dont approve the application.

It has been my personal experience over the years, that people think they have the right to know everything about me and my breeding program and everything I do in relation to my business, (which is actually accurate) but occasionally, they do not think I have the responsibility to screen buyers for my voiceless babies.....my babies DEPEND on ME to put them in situations that are best for them.....that is a responsibility I take seriously, without reservation!

My owners stay in contact with me for many years....I have only lost contact with maybe 4 people, from out of State.... I have never regretted sending out any of my babies to any of the buyers that have come to me for a puppy.....I know them well and they know me...I always refer to us as the "extended RHG (Rosehill Gang) family.....and it is all good!

You are quite simply fabulous and this response is exactly what I would want and expect from anyone I chose to buy a puppy from. The breeder I bought my baby girl from was equally fabulous. We talked for hours and hours and I actually drove 10 hours to visit her twice before picking up my girl. I can honestly say we knew each other and were 100% comfortable with each other before any contracts were signed. When I bring a dog into my family it is with the expectation of 15 plus years of devotion on both our parts. I want to know that my babies first mommy loved her just as much.

As for the furnishings of references, bring it on. I have nothing to hide and would gladly present them.

[Yorkiemom1]

Originally Posted by 107barney

I filled out a lengthy application to adopt from my rescue because they want to break the cycle and make a forever home. But, with cash in hand to buy from a breeder, I don't feel like being scrutinized. I know I'm a good home and if the idiot selling me the dog can't figure it out then I'll be on my way to the next breeder.

I wonder if that door swings both ways? A breeder takes your cash, requests nothing from you but cash for the dog, you obviously expect nothing from the breeder, not now, not in the future, since you have paid your money....and "that idiot" had better not expect anything but money from you.......... and in 8 months your dog is diagnosed with a liver shunt or failing kidneys or a heart valve issue.....what a relief that you paid your money to the idiot and you left with your pup, so all responsibilities from either party to the other is a done deal, sealed with nothing but an exchange of cash. You know you are a wonderful person/pet owner and the breeder knows she is a great breeder, so it is a wash! Great....easy and so uncomplicated! If either one of you is not as great as you think you are, it makes no difference....you got your pup, she got her money! Neither one of you owes the other the time of day.....

I require the information I require so MY babies do not end up in a rescue or the pound in the first place! My babies are going to their furever home, bypassing the streets or the pound or the need to be rescued!

[ladyjane]

Originally Posted by magicgenie

Now that I'm requiring references up front, I'm getting far fewer puppy inquiries. I'm not sorry about this, but very curious.

Originally Posted by Yorkiemom1

My prospective buyers first fill out an interview application....I go over that and contact them with any questions or concerns I may have.....some people do things they just do not realize can be a danger to a small dog. In my application, my request for references are first and foremost, a vet reference and/or a groomer, anyone else that they may have a professional relationship with that would verify that this person is trustworthy and responsible. Personal references, like friends or relatives or co workers, have always been contacted by the potential buyer BEFORE they are listed on the application....that is their responsibility to clear that reference before they list them.....just like ever other reference anyone gives for job interviews, etc.....you always check with people before you list them as references! I have not had anyone tell me they think my application and request for references is an intrusion.....just as anyone can check MY references, my vet, etc on line., they are scrutinizing ME as a reputable breeder. Just like THEY dont want to get stuck with a sick baby and a breeder that disappears on them, I dont want to send my baby to someone that can not/will not afford the $$$$ to provide medical care for the puppy, or they are not set up to provide care for a puppy, etc. Some people are all excited about getting a baby.....until it cries all night long for several of nights, maybe it has an issue with potty accidents, and the newness, the excitement, the thrill of having a new puppy suddenly sux! My buyer's references are every bit as important to me as MY reputation and ethics and honesty are important to any buyer. If they dont like me, they can choose another breeder.....if I dont think they are suitable to have one of my babies, I dont approve the application.

It has been my personal experience over the years, that people think they have the right to know everything about me and my breeding program and everything I do in relation to my business, (which is actually accurate) but occasionally, they do not think I have the responsibility to screen buyers for my voiceless babies.....my babies DEPEND on ME to put them in situations that are best for them.....that is a responsibility I take seriously, without reservation!

My owners stay in contact with me for many years....I have only lost contact with maybe 4 people, from out of State.... I have never regretted sending out any of my babies to any of the buyers that have come to me for a puppy.....I know them well and they know me...I always refer to us as the "extended RHG (Rosehill Gang) family.....and it is all good!

Originally Posted by Yorkiemom1

I wonder if that door swings both ways? A breeder takes your cash, requests nothing from you but cash for the dog, you obviously expect nothing from the breeder, not now, not in the future, since you have paid your money....and "that idiot" had better not expect anything but money from you.......... and in 8 months your dog is diagnosed with a liver shunt or failing kidneys or a heart valve issue.....what a relief that you paid your money to the idiot and you left with your pup, so all responsibilities from either party to the other is a done deal, sealed with nothing but an exchange of cash. You know you are a wonderful person/pet owner and the breeder knows she is a great breeder, so it is a wash! Great....easy and so uncomplicated! If either one of you is not as great as you think you are, it makes no difference....you got your pup, she got her money! Neither one of you owes the other the time of day.....

I require the information I require so MY babies do not end up in a rescue or the pound in the first place! My babies are going to their furever home, bypassing the streets or the pound or the need to be rescued!

Kudos to both of you! I see the results every single day of why breeders should take the time to scrutinize the people they sell to!!

Every single yorkie that ends up in the streets, in a shelter or in a rescue has come from a breeder. This is where the problems begin ... and I wish all breeders cared enough to stop the problem It is not just puppy mills that are the problem with homeless dogs.

I have let my guard down a few times in the past and spoken with people on the telephone prior to doing reference checks and there have been a couple that blew my mind. People can tell you everything you want to hear...but not do anything near what they tell you. One lady I remember SO well. She had all these stories about the pup she had lost to prostrate cancer at the age of (I think) 14??. Anyway...she had spent all this money taking him to this vet and that vet...and had even had cataract surgery done. She named the various specialty hospitals and vets. Wonderful conversation! I was so excited for this foster I had that she wanted. The next day, I called the vet she had listed and the girl who answered told me that they had only seen this dog one time....on the day he was euthanized. I asked why they euthanized, but she did not have that information. So....I sent this lady an email telling her what I had found out, surely she had other vets that I could call. I didn't hear from her immediately....I think a day passed?? Next thing I get is a LONG email telling me how sorry she was that she had lied and made up the story and didn't know what was wrong with the pup she euthanized .. but that she would do better with my foster and would I please give her a chance. She begged me .. matter of fact she kept emailing me for about two weeks. She finally gave up. I had another one I thought was awesome until I found out that she had two dogs living outside in Galveston...one was heartworm positive and she refused treatment. I don't speak with anyone about adoption any more unless they complete the application to adopt and that must include references. If they find that intrusive, then they need to move along. I have no time for games. These are living beings...not stuffed animals and I believe that if a person truly cares they will do the right thing...that goes for breeder, seller, rescuer, adopter.

[SirTeddykins]

Originally Posted by ladyjane

Kudos to both of you! I see the results every single day of why breeders should take the time to scrutinize the people they sell to!!

Every single yorkie that ends up in the streets, in a shelter or in a rescue has come from a breeder. This is where the problems begin ... and I wish all breeders cared enough to stop the problem It is not just puppy mills that are the problem with homeless dogs.

I have let my guard down a few times in the past and spoken with people on the telephone prior to doing reference checks and there have been a couple that blew my mind. People can tell you everything you want to hear...but not do anything near what they tell you. One lady I remember SO well. She had all these stories about the pup she had lost to prostrate cancer at the age of (I think) 14??. Anyway...she had spent all this money taking him to this vet and that vet...and had even had cataract surgery done. She named the various specialty hospitals and vets. Wonderful conversation! I was so excited for this foster I had that she wanted. The next day, I called the vet she had listed and the girl who answered told me that they had only seen this dog one time....on the day he was euthanized. I asked why they euthanized, but she did not have that information. So....I sent this lady an email telling her what I had found out, surely she had other vets that I could call. I didn't hear from her immediately....I think a day passed?? Next thing I get is a LONG email telling me how sorry she was that she had lied and made up the story and didn't know what was wrong with the pup she euthanized .. but that she would do better with my foster and would I please give her a chance. She begged me .. matter of fact she kept emailing me for about two weeks. She finally gave up. I had another one I thought was awesome until I found out that she had two dogs living outside in Galveston...one was heartworm positive and she refused treatment. I don't speak with anyone about adoption any more unless they complete the application to adopt and that must include references. If they find that intrusive, then they need to move along. I have no time for games. These are living beings...not stuffed animals and I believe that if a person truly cares they will do the right thing...that goes for breeder, seller, rescuer, adopter.

What the....!!!!!!!!!!!


What a horrible thing to have done and to try and lie about it??? It would have been better for her to be up front about what she had learned and not try to hide it..


Ugh. Good on you for being so vigilant.

[107barney]

Originally Posted by Yorkiemom1

I wonder if that door swings both ways? A breeder takes your cash, requests nothing from you but cash for the dog, you obviously expect nothing from the breeder, not now, not in the future, since you have paid your money....and "that idiot" had better not expect anything but money from you.......... and in 8 months your dog is diagnosed with a liver shunt or failing kidneys or a heart valve issue.....what a relief that you paid your money to the idiot and you left with your pup, so all responsibilities from either party to the other is a done deal, sealed with nothing but an exchange of cash. You know you are a wonderful person/pet owner and the breeder knows she is a great breeder, so it is a wash! Great....easy and so uncomplicated! If either one of you is not as great as you think you are, it makes no difference....you got your pup, she got her money! Neither one of you owes the other the time of day.....

I require the information I require so MY babies do not end up in a rescue or the pound in the first place! My babies are going to their furever home, bypassing the streets or the pound or the need to be rescued!

The contact covers that.

[107barney]

Originally Posted by Yorkiemom1

I wonder if that door swings both ways? A breeder takes your cash, requests nothing from you but cash for the dog, you obviously expect nothing from the breeder, not now, not in the future, since you have paid your money....and "that idiot" had better not expect anything but money from you.......... and in 8 months your dog is diagnosed with a liver shunt or failing kidneys or a heart valve issue.....what a relief that you paid your money to the idiot and you left with your pup, so all responsibilities from either party to the other is a done deal, sealed with nothing but an exchange of cash. You know you are a wonderful person/pet owner and the breeder knows she is a great breeder, so it is a wash! Great....easy and so uncomplicated! If either one of you is not as great as you think you are, it makes no difference....you got your pup, she got her money! Neither one of you owes the other the time of day.....

I require the information I require so MY babies do not end up in a rescue or the pound in the first place! My babies are going to their furever home, bypassing the streets or the pound or the need to be rescued!

No breeder pays for the medical issues. They give you a replacement dog or refund the purchase price. If I'm wrong post a contact that says a breeder will lay med bills. Emotional support is nice but I don't need that when I'm paying the huge bills for a dog someone else made into a mess.

The idiot selling the dog comment doesn't apply to everyone selling dogs, just idiots. Some breeders are better than others. Some are great until you want your purchase price back to roll into your dog who cost more than 5x the purchase price in the first two years of his life. It's medical problems and lack of affordability that lands dogs in rescues and they are often times later unadoptable.

[ladyjane]

Originally Posted by SirTeddykins

What the....!!!!!!!!!!!


What a horrible thing to have done and to try and lie about it??? It would have been better for her to be up front about what she had learned and not try to hide it..


Ugh. Good on you for being so vigilant.

Yep, people are something else sometimes. That one is a perfect example about why we want references. She didn't view her behavior as unacceptable until she got caught. This is just one person....it happens more than you could imagine. I think people don't believe we will check references.

[magicgenie]

Originally Posted by Yorkiemom1

My prospective buyers first fill out an interview application....I go over that and contact them with any questions or concerns I may have.....some people do things they just do not realize can be a danger to a small dog. In my application, my request for references are first and foremost, a vet reference and/or a groomer, anyone else that they may have a professional relationship with that would verify that this person is trustworthy and responsible. Personal references, like friends or relatives or co workers, have always been contacted by the potential buyer BEFORE they are listed on the application....that is their responsibility to clear that reference before they list them.....just like ever other reference anyone gives for job interviews, etc.....you always check with people before you list them as references! I have not had anyone tell me they think my application and request for references is an intrusion.....just as anyone can check MY references, my vet, etc on line., they are scrutinizing ME as a reputable breeder. Just like THEY dont want to get stuck with a sick baby and a breeder that disappears on them, I dont want to send my baby to someone that can not/will not afford the $$$$ to provide medical care for the puppy, or they are not set up to provide care for a puppy, etc. Some people are all excited about getting a baby.....until it cries all night long for several of nights, maybe it has an issue with potty accidents, and the newness, the excitement, the thrill of having a new puppy suddenly sux! My buyer's references are every bit as important to me as MY reputation and ethics and honesty are important to any buyer. If they dont like me, they can choose another breeder.....if I dont think they are suitable to have one of my babies, I dont approve the application.

It has been my personal experience over the years, that people think they have the right to know everything about me and my breeding program and everything I do in relation to my business, (which is actually accurate) but occasionally, they do not think I have the responsibility to screen buyers for my voiceless babies.....my babies DEPEND on ME to put them in situations that are best for them.....that is a responsibility I take seriously, without reservation!

My owners stay in contact with me for many years....I have only lost contact with maybe 4 people, from out of State.... I have never regretted sending out any of my babies to any of the buyers that have come to me for a puppy.....I know them well and they know me...I always refer to us as the "extended RHG (Rosehill Gang) family.....and it is all good!

I wonder if you would email me your application for use as a guide to making my own.

[Lovetodream88]

If I wanted a pup from a reputable breeder heck I would be willing to give a blood sample lol. I think when a breeder asks a lot of questions and for references it shows that it's more about the pups then the money. If someone is not willing to answer the questions I would be worried they might not be willing to do everything a pup might need. Great job to those of y'all that do that.