Looking for a Breeder
When looking to buy a dog or cat, you can become confused very quickly when trying to find a specific breed. You might have already tried the local rescue centre, but if nothing there was quite right, you try the breeders. But where to start? And how are you supposed to know if the breeder you choose is ethically correct? Animal Friends has a few pointers for you.
Where to look?
Breeders these days can advertise in a variety of places. The internet has given way to hundreds of websites for breeders to advertise their litters or animals, as well as having their own websites to hold all the pictures of their pedigree prize winners or similar trophy animals. In this sense, the internet can be a very confusing place to look, as how can you tell which one breeder is better than another? The internet of course also has the platform for reviews from the people who have used the breeders before, and so in this sense you can get a feel for how trustworthy a breeder is.
The best place to look is in your local area, through either local phone books or newspapers. Whilst these are easy ways to see when a litter has been birthed, finding a breeder before their animals have a litter is a better way to ensure your needs are met, whilst also ensuring the breeder has enough demand to justify breeding his animals. The best way to find a breeder, however, is either through word of mouth or through registered means, such as referrals from the Kennel club etc. Through this you can find out that they are both a trusted and reliable breeder, and gives you the time to explore their methods and view whether or not they operate ethically.
Important Questions
Always ask to see the breeding parents, and it is also advised to see the environment they live in. This allows you to see if the parents have any illness or impairment that might be passed along and also see whether or not the breeder cares for the animals they work with. Obviously what people look for in dogs is different, so be sure to let the breeder know whether you are buying simply a family pet, or if you intend to compete with the dog at shows. The breeder knows their animals, and they may be able to advise you on the standards their litters will have.
Finally, don’t forget to insure your pet from an early age to help against costly vet bills. Animal Friends Insurance offers a wide range of comprehensive cover to suit you, so call us on 0845 55 70 300 or email us at info@animalfriends.co.uk and ask how we can help your animal friend.
