Quote:
   | 
					Originally Posted by BamaFan121s  I seriously doubt that Pat meant to offend you with her comment. I think she was just trying to exemplify that ditching the pups at only 5 weeks should be  done under only the most dire circumstances.  But you know what they say, if you go looking for something to be offended by, then you will never be disappointed.     I have a feeling that would be the case here regardless since lots of people telling you this is a bad idea instead encouraging you to pursue this.    
When you ask a question, you are going to get well informed, detailed, HONEST answers...even if they are not the answers you wanted  to hear.  People focus on the best interest of the DOGS invovled.  They are also the first to help out when people realize they are in over their head.  However, no one is going to encourage you, or commend you, or offer sympathy if they don't feel it's what's best for the dog.  THAT is what you can expect on this site.  If that isn't what you are looking for, then most likely, this site isn't for you.  Consider this:  You came here, seeking advice and explained the situation.  So far, EVERY SINGLE PERSON who has responded has said that bringing this dog home at this age is a bad idea.  Not to mention ILLEGAL!  Not one person has supported the idea of doing so or agreed with what the breeder has decided to do.  That should tell you something.  If you feel you can ignore that and decide to proceed anyway, then IMO, you are being very irresponsible and setting yourself up for trouble. No one is going to commend you for that. | 
 
  Bama makes a good point, a blunt one, but a good point. Bama tends to do that 
 
 
I'm not a breeder, but I've done enough research to know that you SHOULD NOT separate a litter from each other or their mum before 12 weeks. It is a very important developmental time and if they are torn apart there is a good chance they will have behavioral issues/poor temperament. 
I would suggest working with your mom's friend AS A FRIEND and helping her and the dogs through this difficult time. Time for people to step up and take shifts with the litter under the instruction of good advice.   
Also, I extend my condolences to those impacted by the emotional events taking place. I will say a prayer for the sick nephew.