[gemy]

I think that across the board 12-14 wks is too strict - many breeds are okay to go at 8wks old.

But microchipping for sure - with the breeders name and contact number etc, plus across the country laws that stipulate breeders are responsible for genetic defects up to a certain $$ amount. Ie consistent puppy lemon laws, which apply to all folks who place puppies with any-one. That is your next door neighbour that just decided or oops pregnancies etc.

If the APPA is to be believed fully 40% of the American population gets their new puppy from family/friends/next door neighbours.

But the reality is this won't happen. Obviously the government would like to shut down the most egregious kennels. But I still find it dis-heartening to see that no-one seems to get the blatant situation that dogs destined for pet homes are raised in a commercial kennel, with no early learning socialization and adjustment to the sights, sounds, and smells of a true home environment.