by Hilary Baxter

Created on: November 02, 2008   Last Updated: November 24, 2008

Animal lovers Unite! There is no reason to seek out a breeder. You want a lovable mutt? Look at the shelter. You want a pure bred pup? Check the local shelter. Shelters care for and adopt everything from Chihuahuas to Chow Chows, with many lovable, furry options in between.

Dog breeding is a business. Breeders depend on your money for survival. They are businesses whose primary goal is to make a profit. By selling you an animal they make money, and you are left with the consequences. By comparison, shelters are nonprofit organizations whose only goal is to match the perfect dog with the perfect person. Animal sales are non-refundable, while shelter adoptions maintain a return policy in the event that the adoption doesn't work out.

In addition, a breeder would be reluctant to discourage someone not ready to commit to the breed. Any breeder will insist that their puppy is the one for you. A shelter will apply individual attention to matching pets and families. One family's dream dog may be another's hell hound. Different ages, sizes and breeds of dogs excel under different conditions. It is the responsibility of the shelter staff to guide selections to success.

Another misconception, or really an out and out lie, concerns the quality of the dog. Many breeders want you to believe that by purchasing an animal from them you have secured a better deal. Ironically it is extremely rare for even the most reputable of breeders to supply basic veterinary care for the puppies before their sale. Shelters are required by law to vaccinate, neuter and test for heart-worms. By adopting from a shelter you guarantee yourself a healthy pet.

The final and most compelling reason to blow past the over priced dealers and meet you new best friend is Freedom of Choice. In any shelter the choices range from Lasa Apsas to Labradors, German Shepherds to Great Danes and Papillons to Pugs. And of course, a veritable smorgasbord of mutts, each showing the best of their mixed breeds. The staff has had the opportunity to get to know each dog as an individual and can help to match your personality to potential pets. Shelters are there to help pets find homes and to help homes find pets. Your dog, what ever kind of dog that is, is waiting for you.

Learn more about this author, Hilary Baxter.
Click here to send this author comments or questions.