Breeders

A breeder is most often someone who specializes in one particular species or breed of animal. Most common are dog breeders. A breeder is a great source to find a happy, healthy pet, and an even better source for frank, non-sugar-coated information. They'll tell you why their litter is awesome, and why they decided to breed them. They'll also tell you about their drawbacks, common breed disorders, and whether or not they believe this pet is a good fit for you and your family.

Be cautious, however, of any breeder, especially dog, that specializes in more than two breeds of dog. Puppy mills are a popular and terrible thing. Basically, a puppy mill describes a scenario where dogs of pure breeds are over bred with one another to produce a vast number of puppies, thus creating a much larger profit. The drawbacks are dire. Dogs are typically kept in a crate barely large enough for the animal, and aren't usually kept very clean for that matter. Though dogs may be given enough to eat, the diet isn't generally very good, and being pregnant so often with no time in between for recovery can kill a dog within a few years.

Again, check out the facilities. Is everything clean and well-kept? Do the animals have enough space? Are the puppies healthy looking? Any reputable breeder should have the parent dogs, or at least the mother on site, and you should be able to get a look at her. Does she look healthy? Do the pups come with a health guarentee? If you suspect a mill, contact your Animal Rights group or local Humane Society. You'll be kept anonymous, the breeders will be inspected, and if nothing is wrong, no harm done. However if you helped to put away a breeder milling puppies, you can feel good about your deed, and the dogs will all be better off.

Good breeders are easy to come by, but a litter isn't. More often than not, if you found a good one, you'll be put on a waiting list for offspring. If you're really determined that this is the pet for you, it's well worth the wait, and the extra money. Did I mention that breeders can charge and arm and a leg for great pets and still sleep at night? It's worth it!