First, I want to say that I consider myself a responsible breeder. I want to say that so I don't get "Well, you breed and just don't want people to go to your competitors!" That is the furtherest thing from my mind. I get calls every week from people who bought from disreputable BYB's, CB's or mi**ers, stores, flea markets and you cannot believe the horror stories I hear. When someone is grieving for a lost(dead) pet you cannot say "stop and lissen to me. You should have done your homework and you would have never bought from these people." The time to tell anyone this is when they start to talk about looking for a pet.....we have to educate the public about such things as how to select a breeder, how to interview a breeder, how the breeder should interview you, health and genetic issues, where the animal originated, pedigrees and health history of parents.
I turn away probably 10 times more inquiries than the single one I decide will be a home for one of my puppies. I had 2 litters this year-6 puppies. I still have one little girl cause I want to know she will be fine in a new home. But, if I can help anyone learn facts about Yorkies, I consider my program a success. I love this breed beyond discription and I want every single puppy to have the best home possible. I keep a list of sites where people can learn a lot about orkies in particular and puppies in general..There is no excuse for not knowing about specific breeds these days-the internet and book stores are full of info..EDUCATE YOURSELF and save yourself heartbreak!!! I am not saying these things to pat myself on the back but the grief of losing a pet is so great no matter if you have it a week or 3 years as I did my heart of hearts, Jesse. It just hurts so much......... |