[Rachael1983]

I actually was on a waiting list for Emma for roughly a year. I think when we were notified a puppy was avaialble, when I contacted her back, we talked for roughly 30 minutes about our lifestyle (living space, my work situation, children, pet history, etc). Everything she asked seemed to be adequate for the scenario and nothing was intrusive. I think that her asking for references was valid and I wouldn't be approved without having spoken to them. I thought I asked the right questions of her and to this day I'm appreciative that she thought highly enough of me to let us bring Emma home. Emma easily could have been sold as to a show home but she's with us.

Also, Gemy mentioned that some breeders were hesitant to sell to people who were in their 30s who may relocate for work, have babies etc. I could see the rationale actually but I'm in my 30s, just relocated for work and I have a 12 year old. So that doesn't necessarily disqualify someone from being a good home.

I think that the idea to ask for references after you speak with the owner is okay but to ask them at the time of the application may not be ideal. I think you should get a good vibe for the person first and then decide if its even worth the effort to move forward with calling the references. You also want to give the applicant the opportunity to alert their references so they are not caught off guard with the phone call or not answer the call at all. Vet/groomer references need that headsup because their may be several clients in the same practice with the same name or what have you.

I read through all 6 pages before compiling my response so I think I've touched on everything I wanted to mention. Long post. Whew!