How much is that moral superiority in the window?
Movement and sales of dogs through “rescue channels” continues to explode. While more and more cities and states are restricting sales of dogs in pet stores to those obtained from animal shelters and rescue groups, the actual source of these dogs remains obscure. Yet, there is mounting evidence that movement through “rescue channels” includes individuals or organizations involved merely for the profit, hence the name “Retail Rescue.” The dogs may be coming from the very same unscrupulous dog breeders these laws are intended to put out of business.
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People continue to want to buy dogs, particularly puppies, but have been convinced that pet stores sell dogs that receive substandard care from commercial breeders collectively called “puppy mills.” Thinking they are saving these dogs, the public is increasingly backing laws banning sales of pure-bred commercially sourced dogs, and permitting only sales from animal shelters and rescue groups.
Notably, the overpopulation of dogs in many parts of the U.S., particularly the north east, has been curtailed by effective spay-neuter programs in these states. Therefore, to provide puppies and dogs to the public, seeking to purchase pets through rescue channels, these animals have to be imported from other states and countries.
I can’t imagine what kind of hoops I’m going to have to go through to get a couple of Shih-Tzu puppies in B.C. sometime in the next twelve months. Not looking forward to it…
Let’s call it wat it Is – racketeering – fully supporter by progessia.
I have had 4 dogs from CKC breeders – it’s the only way to get documentés proof of a genetically healthy dog. Proving again urban progressives know as much about dogs as rhey do about anyrhing else which requires objective knowledge.
I have a rez rescue, but I rescued him myself.
At this point there are very few accidental dog births in North America apart from Indian Reservations and ferral dog populations on big farms.
I have been in breed-specific rescue (er, “rehoming”) for nigh on 20 years and my dog before that was a pure-bred from the pound – and I despise pounds. When you get a specific breed you generally get a known temperament and you know the strengths and weaknesses of that breed. I’ve fostered 15 dogs and adopted six and they were all individuals but with a common set of characteristics. Mongrels are a roll of the dice.
@Jon: “At this point there are very few accidental dog births in North America apart from Indian Reservations and ferral dog populations on big farms.”
I disagree. Having lived in Mexico (I think it’s part of North America), my observations there are that MOST of the dogs are “accidental”. Also, Detroit …. feral (abandoned)dogs in cities are a growing problem. I imagine that Detroit is not alone in this.
I have two dogs, both so called “rescue” dogs, one from the pound, one from the street. One is a male, mixed bull mastiff and boxer (not neutered). Absolutely beautiful and smart as well as affectionate and fierce. The other, female and smaller is a Heinz 57 variety. A ball of fire. It’s how you care for them and train them that makes them wonderful to be around.
The problem with dogs is not with breeders but with people.
Dogs are a responsibility that lasts for 10 to 17 years. People just don’t seem to realize that long term commitment when they see a cute puppy.
If you use Craigslist and Kijiji you can find what you want even here in BC. You can even post an ad on both stateing what you are looking for, if a Google search does not produce any local breeders. I know I have seen them before on these sites. Good luck in finding what you want.