[SophieKatesMom]

Thank you so much for the link. I spent a great deal of time today searching the AKC site and attempting to find SophieKates original breeder (or Puppy Mill).

As luck would have it I spoke to this lovely lady in Oklahoma named Judy Lane thinking that perhaps SophieKate came from her. Judy was so nice, after telling me she did not have the sire or the dame on the paper work she talked to me for probably 15 minutes.

Judy took the time to explain to me that even if I got the paper work from Petland there is a good chance it may not even belong to my dog. She then asked me some very rational questions:

1. Are you going to breed your dog - no, SophieKate is spayed

2. Why do you want to register her - I couldn't honestly answer her more then saying I wanted to find out if she came from a PuppyMill.

I am so thankful she asked the questions because Judy than explained to me that I am not alone, a lot of people have bought puppies from a pet store and now wonder. She told me that if I love my dog and she is in good health I need to stop worrying so much and just enjoy my puppy. She is right, I need to do just that and stop feeling so quilty. Judy was also very direct but helpful with me on how I should go about getting my next dog (when I get another one).

Here is the part I think is really great, Judy gave me her email address and told me to call her or email her anytime with questions or concerns I may have about my dog - she will be more than happy to help me.

I was at the dog park this evening and I happened to see my Vet with her dog. I was telling her about my day spent trying to track down SophieKates parents and the conversation with Judy. My Vet also assured me that I was a good pet owner, I was honest where I got SophieKate and that helps her in making sure SophieKate is overall healthy and happy.

Thank you all for your advice, it is appreciated. I think I will take the advice offered me and just enjoy my beautiful unregistered but awesome puppy.