by Sarah J Palmer

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

Before deciding where to buy your next cat or dog you need to decide what you want from your pet. Are you looking for a companion or a competitor? Is your next furry friend going to have a duty to fulfil in order to earn their keep or are you just delighted to have them share your life with you?

If you are a competitive person who enjoys cat or dog shows then obviously parentage and performance prospects are important to you. You'll want to know the history, bloodlines and sporting achievements of your next pet's parents and their progeny. So you should be looking to contact breeders of your preferred breed to meet this need. It's very unlikely that a rescue shelter will be able to provide the same depth and breadth of background knowledge on individual dogs.

Buying from breeders gives you the benefit of having access to somebody who is, or should be, extremely knowledgeable about their breed. They can advise you on weaknesses, strengths and characteristics of the breed and what type of lifestyle suits them. Some English lady breeders will even go so far as to refuse to sell their stock to individuals whom they feel inadequate or inappropriate owners of their particular stock!

On the other hand, if you are looking for a fun family friend to share your home then head for the rescue shelter. They have a constantly changing selection of pets of all sizes, breeds, colouring, age, temperament and coat length for suitable re-homers to select from. You should expect the same vigorous interview from the shelter as you would a private breeder and quite possibly a home check too. This is to ensure your home is as safe as you described on your application form.

Pets from reputable rescue shelters will be vaccinated, wormed, de-fleaed, micro-chipped and neutered. You don't have to start your new relationship traumatised by four visits to the vet! You may also find that they are already litter trained, which is an absolute luxury, bordering on decadence!

Pets adopted from rescue centres usually remain the property of the centre for life. This can be an added comfort to the older owner or those whose personal circumstances change suddenly. It guarantees your pet the safety of a home for life even if you lose yours.

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