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Transcript from "Breeding Standards: Ethics, Responsibilities and Purpose"

 
 
April 12, 2010
turtlelady81: I'd like to formally introduce and welcome Jacque, @comfypaws. #barkoutloud
Mod_Mary: Jacque is a veterinary technician and runs a successful pet sitting business, among her many other pursuits. #barkoutloud
Mod_Mary: Jacque acquired her first purebred dog in 1974 and began her love affair with Ridgebacks. #barkoutloud
Mod_Mary: She bred her first litter of purebred dogs the same year she passed the CA state board for the RVT license - 1979 #barkoutloud
Mod_Mary: Wow. She's older than I thought... : ) #barkoutloud
Mod_Mary: Are we ready? If so, Let's go! #barkoutloud
ComfyPaws: LOL would you believe I was 12 at the time? #barkoutloud
Mod_Hilary: Q1: Is there a good way to determine whether a breeder is ethical/moral before purchasing? #barkoutloud
ComfyPaws: A1 Just as when making an large purchase - you shop around. You might look at prices, guarantees etc in 3 or 4 >> #barkoutloud
ComfyPaws: places before buying a new refrigerator. #barkoutloud
ComfyPaws: A1 When purchasing a puppy you are acquiring a long term companion - do your footwork! #barkoutloud
ComfyPaws: A1Get to know the breeders in your area before you buy via referrals from vets, local kennel clubs or using the AKC breeders list. #barkoutloud
ComfyPaws: A1Ask for references! Talk to them! You'll be surprised what you learn about someone during casual conversation. Ask questions! #barkoutloud
Mod_Mary: @ComfyPaws Good advice... really good advice. #barkoutloud
ComfyPaws: A1 are they members of their nat'l breed club? do they or have they held an office? #barkoutloud
tacrabtree: @ComfyPaws - when using an AKA breeder, do they have certain criteria they have to follow? #barkoutloud
Mod_Mary: RT @ComfyPaws: A1 are they members of their natl breed club? do they or have they held an office? #barkoutloud
ComfyPaws: A1 how many litters per year? do they welcome you to their homes to meet them and their dogs? (this is a biggie) #barkoutloud
ComfyPaws: A1 ask about what genetic screening they do and why - ask to see the certificates #barkoutloud
reflxyon: Discuss their contract... will they take a dog back? at any age? for what reasons? #barkoutloud
ComfyPaws: A1 are the premises clean? clean buckets, fresh water? #barkoutloud
Keeping_Awake: A1 AKC publishes a good list of q's to ask potential breeders #barkoutloud
ComfyPaws: A1 do they show their dogs? participate in performance activities? #barkoutloud
ComfyPaws: A1 ask they pros and cons of your chosen breed - discuss how these fit your lifestyle #barkoutloud
ComfyPaws: A1 ask them what they are hoping to achieve with this particular breeding, what will they keep? #barkoutloud
Mod_Mary: @ComfyPaws Performance activities? What's that? #barkoutloud
ComfyPaws: A1 what are the good/bad points of the sire? of the dam? #barkoutloud
Keeping_Awake: A1 ask about genetic screening on ancestors and health screenings on pups before they go home, BAER, etc. #barkoutloud
ComfyPaws: A1 does the breeder ask YOU for references? does the breeder inquire about your work schedule, >> #barkoutloud
ComfyPaws: << fencing, housing, your veterinarian etc? #barkoutloud
Mod_Mary: What are your experiences with initial questions? #barkoutloud
ComfyPaws: A1 if you currently have no vet does the breeder offer to provide you with names and phone numbers? #barkoutloud
SuSiempre: #VetsMustBeAwareOfLegalRestrictions #LawsuitsHaveBeenBornOfLess RT @ComfyPaws: A1 ...referrals from vets... #Dogtalk
Keeping_Awake: A1 OFA testing can be verified over the web as well #barkoutloud
ComfyPaws: A1 does the breeder have any older retired dogs? what kind of shape are they in? #barkoutloud
tacrabtree: The breeder I used do show their dogs but did not want any of the pups they sold to be breeding dogs themselves. Is that unusual? #barkoutloud
dogloversdigest: I find that good breeders are as curious about you as you are about them. They should be asking good questions of you as well. #barkoutloud
Mod_Mary: A1 So, it's as much abt the breeder asking the potential buyer questions... hmmm... #barkoutloud
ComfyPaws: A1 ask to see the sales agreement and ask questions! what is the guarantee? #barkoutloud
ComfyPaws: A1 does the breeder offer pre pick up puppy visits? (great way to add to early puppy socialization) #barkoutloud
ComfyPaws: A1 this is important - NO reputable breeder will ever sell their puppies to a pet store or puppy outlet #barkoutloud
kimhalligan1: @tacrabtree My 1 jap chin came from a breeder that required ppl to spay/neuter. Good Idea #barkoutloud
tacrabtree: @ComfyPaws - wow fabulous points - all of them - #barkoutloud
ComfyPaws: @Mod_Mary @tacrabtree yes I think that is unusual #barkoutloud
Mod_Hilary: @kimhalligan1 We'll get to that issue. #barkoutloud
Keeping_Awake: @tcacrabtree Not unusual if the pups were pet quality. PQ's are sold on limited registration, often sp/neuter #barkoutloud
tacrabtree: @kimhalligan1 - I thot so too, I sure didn't want pups #barkoutloud
Mod_Mary: RT @tacrabtree: @ComfyPaws - wow fabulous points - all of them - it's why we hired her... : ) #barkoutloud
ComfyPaws: A1 a breeder HAS to know about the home the pups are going to - how else to pick a proper home for the life of the dog? #barkoutloud
sendchocolate: I understand it is against AKC to sell show registered dogs for a higher price, v. limited registration? #barkoutloud #barkoutloud
Mod_Lorie: @ComfyPaws Some great points there! Esp. re: pet stores/puppy outlets and asking questions. #barkoutloud
BlindMaximus: @tacrabtree All the dog/cat breeders I know are that way & only sell on spay/neuter contracts. #barkoutloud
Mod_Lorie: Q2. What are a breeder's responsibilities re: choosing an appropriate home for a puppy? #barkoutloud
Keeping_Awake: @tcacrabtree Would be unusual to have NO show quality pups in a litter from a show breeder though. #barkoutloud
ComfyPaws: @sendchocolate nope - pups with limited reg. are usually sold a bit cheaper #barkoutloud
ComfyPaws: A2 Many breeders require an application from potential buyers. #barkoutloud
ComfyPaws: A2 The questions pertain to housing, fencing, other pets in the home, childrens' ages, etc. #barkoutloud
ComfyPaws: A2 Also why this breed was chosen, how many dogs have they owned in the last 5 yrs, where are those dogs now #barkoutloud
ComfyPaws: A2 what makes you a good pet owner, how will this dog fit your lifestyle ... #barkoutloud
ComfyPaws: A2 The application process works nicely for gathering basic info but doesn't replace face to face meetings. #barkoutloud
ComfyPaws: A2 I like potential buyers to visit my home and dogs several times before we complete a sale. #barkoutloud
ComfyPaws: A2 I want to see how they interact with the dogs and get to know them before they take a puppy home #barkoutloud
Keeping_Awake: A2 will probably also ask your training experience or planned training style #barkoutloud
ComfyPaws: A2 Some folks look good on paper - not so much in person #barkoutloud
ComfyPaws: A2 We are actually entering a partnership of sorts and I want to know I can trust the new owner to >> #barkoutloud
Mod_Hilary: A2 These are such similar questions that reputable rescues have. Great that reputable breeders have same! #barkoutloud
ComfyPaws: A2 provide for and be kind to this dog. #barkoutloud
ComfyPaws: A2 Dog ownership is a huge commitment - it is not a 'right' but a luxury. #barkoutloud
Keeping_Awake: A2 Will want you to bring ALL people who will live with the animal to the interview #barkoutloud
ComfyPaws: A2 Money is an issue! Not the purchase price of the pup ... #barkoutloud
ComfyPaws: A2 but can the potential buyer afford quality care for this dog? #barkoutloud
Mod_Hilary: @ComfyPaws A2 Great on the partnership with the new owners. I love that. #barkoutloud
ComfyPaws: A2 Especially in the case of an emergency. Many people involved in rescue have seen dogs >> #barkoutloud
ComfyPaws: A2 << relinquished because owners cannot afford veterinary care. #barkoutloud
ComfyPaws: A2 Here's an example: http://tinyurl.com/y4fo8kn #barkoutloud
ComfyPaws: A2 Many breeders like new owners who are willing to become involved - attend club meetings, >> #barkoutloud
ComfyPaws: A2 fun days, matches, pot lucks, performance events #barkoutloud
SuSiempre: #DoublyImportantForLargeAndGiantBreeds RT @ComfyPaws: A2 but can the potential buyer afford quality care for this dog? #Dogtalk
ComfyPaws: A2 Bring your dog and participate or just hang out and socialize with others who have them same interests. #barkoutloud
Keeping_Awake: A2 With many reputable breeders, you will start the process 6mos-2yrs before you get a puppy. #barkoutloud
Mod_Mary: So, I wonder if we might have input from others... #barkoutloud
Mod_Mary: @Keeping_Awake Really? #barkoutloud
svilardo: @Keeping_Awake We started our process about a year and a half before we ever got our puppy #barkoutloud
dogloversdigest: Very true. RT @Keeping_Awake: A2 With many reputable breeders, you will start the process 6mo -2yrs before you get a puppy. #barkoutloud
Mod_Mary: I'm not sure that friends who have purchased have had this exp. #barkoutloud
Keeping_Awake: @Mod_Mary Yes, because most reputable brdrs have one to two litters per year.Have waiting list bfr planning brdngs #barkoutloud
Mod_Mary: Hmmm... I'm surprised at this.... Really. #barkoutloud
svilardo: @Mod_Mary Yes, we started looking at our breeder over a year before we got the pup #barkoutloud
Mod_Hilary: Q3: At what age should puppies be placed with new owners? // @FlynSam asked this, and others have, too. #barkoutloud
Keeping_Awake: @Mod_Mary If you want a show quality dog from a highly sought-after breeder, or even a pet, they have long wait lists and are picky #barkoutloud
svilardo: @Mod_Mary Then again, she only breeds when she is looking for her next show dog... #barkoutloud
Mod_Mary: Wow... evryone I've known who has EVER gotten a purebred pup has done so "on the fly" #barkoutloud
CosmoHavanese: @Mod_Mary Yes, I would expect at least six months for that reason too ... not too many litters in a year. #barkoutloud
tacrabtree: wow never had this RT @svilardo: @Mod_Mary Yes, we started looking at our breeder over a year before we got the pup #barkoutloud
svilardo: @Mod_Hilary Q3: I would say 8-12 weeks...the trick is, a good breeder will choose the dog for the family, not the fam choosing dog #barkoutloud
dogloversdigest: @Keeping_Awake 18 months for me to get my Aussie Gavin. #barkoutloud
CosmoHavanese: @Mod_Mary I think around nine weeks... anyone know if different breeds have different requirements for placement age? #barkoutloud
Mod_Mary: RT @CosmoHavanese: @Mod_Mary I think around nine weeks... neknow if different breeds have different requirements for placement age? #barkoutloud
tacrabtree: my cutie here was 8-9 wks old #barkoutloud
FlynSam: RT @Mod_Mary: @FlynSam Hey, I havent seen pics yet of this pup! <<Must just be missing them... will post at end tonight for all :) #barkoutloud
Keeping_Awake: @CosmoHavanese In some states, you cannot legally sell before 8 weeks, and most breeds go home then. Toy breeds often go home at 10 #barkoutloud
Mod_Mary: @Keeping_Awake Why toybreeds later? #barkoutloud
kimhalligan1: @tacrabtree Spencer my Jap Chin was given to me at 12 weeks. Breeder asked all the right questions #barkoutloud
Mod_Mary: not digressing from format - filling the silence of our guest while changing computers! #barkoutloud
Mod_Hilary: Part of Q3 is if there is a difference in age for puppy placement depending on breeds. Didn't realize this. #barkoutloud
Keeping_Awake: @Mod_Mary Not sure why toy breeds sometimes go home later. Perhaps the fragility? Developmentally, they'd be the same at same age #barkoutloud
ComfyPaws: ok I think Im back #barkoutloud
CosmoHavanese: @Keeping_Awake That's interesting... and that's good that they can't sell before 8 weeks.. in some states anyway. #barkoutloud
kimhalligan1: I have heard 49 days or 7 weeks is the best to give puppies to ppl. Sounds a bit early. #barkoutloud
svilardo: @Keeping_Awake @Mod_Mary - I would say because they are so fragile at the younger ages...until growth plates develop further #barkoutloud
Mod_Hilary: @Keeping_Awake A3 So toy breeds go home later than larger breeds? #barkoutloud
Mod_Hilary: @ComfyPaws Yes, go for Q3 A3! #barkoutloud
ComfyPaws: A3 By law in most states 6 wks of age is the minimum #barkoutloud
ComfyPaws: A3 Breeders who are concerned about development stages within the litter structure and the well >> #barkoutloud
ComfyPaws: balanced adult dog don't send pups to new homes prior to 9 wks of age. #barkoutloud
Keeping_Awake: @Mod_Mary Seems to be the case in toys, but I am no expert in the toy breeds. ;) #barkoutloud
ComfyPaws: A3 Many (myself included) really prefer 12 wks #barkoutloud
tacrabtree: @ComfyPaws - don't they have separation anxiety issues at only 6 wks? #barkoutloud
ComfyPaws: A3 This way the pups have learned some important social skills with other dogs >> #barkoutloud
Mod_Hilary: @ComfyPaws A3 What age do you thinkis best? 9 weeks? What about the spooky 8 week period? #barkoutloud
ComfyPaws: A3 (littermates) and also have had a couple of vaccines to provide better immunity prior to be exposed >> #barkoutloud
ComfyPaws: A3 << to stress and new surroundings. #barkoutloud
ComfyPaws: A3 In many cases the pup's crate training and housebreaking is nearly done and some basic training has begun #barkoutloud
ComfyPaws: A3 Some breeders begin performance event activities in the puppy play yard >> #barkoutloud
ComfyPaws: A3 like setting up some agility apparatus or starting lure coursing skills thru play #barkoutloud
ComfyPaws: A3 I prefer keeping pups until they are 12 wks #barkoutloud
Keeping_Awake: A3 My mom's pups generally go home at 9-10 weeks. English Setters. #barkoutloud
Keeping_Awake: @ComfyPaws Why 12 weeks? #barkoutloud
Mod_Mary: RT @ComfyPaws: A3 I prefer keeping pups until they are 12 wks #barkoutloud
CosmoHavanese: @ComfyPaws at what age will you start with some agility?? Just tunnels, perhaps? #barkoutloud
svilardo: We got our pup when he was 9 weeks old - Golden Retriever #barkoutloud
ComfyPaws: @Keeping_Awake there are many social skills a pup can learn while with littermates #barkoutloud
Mod_Lorie: @ComfyPaws Are your pups better socialized when they at 12 weeks rather than 8 or 9? #barkoutloud
ComfyPaws: A good book that outlines what social skills a pup learns at what age - by The Monks of New Skete #barkoutloud
Mod_Hilary: @ComfyPaws A3 Isn't the socialization window up to 12-16 weeks? #barkoutloud
ComfyPaws: @Mod_Lorie absolutely! #barkoutloud
Keeping_Awake: @ComfyPaws Yes, littermates R important. But what about pups natural window for new experiences at 8-10 wks in helping the transtn? #barkoutloud
Mod_Lorie: That's what I've read too. RT @Mod_Hilary: @ComfyPaws A3 Isnt the socialization window up to 12-16 weeks? #barkoutloud
Mod_Lorie: @ComfyPaws Makes sense! #barkoutloud
ComfyPaws: @Mod_Lorie pups learn to read canine cues and body language within the litter structure #barkoutloud
Keeping_Awake: Ooh boy, not a fan of the Monks, personally. #barkoutloud
Mod_Hilary: @Keeping_Awake A3 Seems as though breeders are all over the place with age, but rarely b4 7-8 wks #barkoutloud
ComfyPaws: socialization with other dogs and people outside the owners' family take place after 12 weeks #barkoutloud
dogloversdigest: Not a fan of the Monks either. #barkoutloud
Mod_Lorie: That's my experience too. RT @ComfyPaws: @Mod_Lorie pups learn to read canine cues and body language within the litter structure #barkoutloud
Mod_Hilary: @dogloversdigest A3 Monks are controversial, but I raised my GSDs thru their books. Things have changed. Updated books. #barkoutloud
ComfyPaws: Keeping a pup within the litter is less likely to produce a fearful or aggressive dog - or one with separation anxiety #barkoutloud
Mod_Lorie: @ComfyPaws: Do you agree that the first 3-4 months is crucial to produce a well-adjusted adult dog? #barkoutloud
ComfyPaws: don't have to be a fan to learn from what is written #barkoutloud
FlynSam: RT Thats my experience too. RT @ComfyPaws: @Mod_Lorie pups learn to read canine cues and body language within the litter structure #barkoutloud
Keeping_Awake: @ComfyPaws Ok, then I will say that I disagree with a lot of what the Monks have written, but don't want to derail the chat #barkoutloud
ComfyPaws: here a bulldog breeder outlined what is learned at what age http://tinyurl.com/yyq4e98 #barkoutloud
Mod_Hilary: Q4: What about breeders who advertise online? How reputable are they? #barkoutloud
Keeping_Awake: would be interested in cues breeders take from potential buyers in matching the right pup to them #barkoutloud
ComfyPaws: A4 Good info provided by AKC re: internet puppy sales http://tinyurl.com/y65ljlm #barkoutloud
ComfyPaws: A4 We all know to be cautious when buying online! Many breeders have classy web sites but it is a >> #barkoutloud
ComfyPaws: << good idea to buy from someone whose home you can visit. #barkoutloud
ComfyPaws: @Mod_Mary @Keeping_Awake huge cue is how the potential owners' children behave ;-) #barkoutloud
tacrabtree: @Mod_Mary - Online is a good way to get your info out there. That's how I found my pup, in another state, but Q&A went both ways #barkoutloud
Mod_Hilary: @ComfyPaws Q4 I know a few ppl who have gotten dogs online.Some not so good. Worry abt follow-up. #barkoutloud
Keeping_Awake: It's one thing to advertise yourself online, another entirely to SELL through the internet. #barkoutloud
Mod_Hilary: @tacrabtree Q4 Glad you had a lot of Q&A with your online breeder. I think many of us forget that. #barkoutloud
tacrabtree: I was looking for particular traits & blood line. I was willing to travel to get her! #barkoutloud
Mod_Hilary: @Keeping_Awake Q4: good distinction btween advertising online and selling online. I don't like online selling, but others do. #barkoutloud
kimhalligan1: I'm wondering when a good breeder should start breeding their dogs? Ive seen ppl breed them only after 1st or 2 heats. Seems young #barkoutloud
gooddogz: Red internet flags. No pedigree, sell multi breeds, sell several that end in poo, Use google 2 find other sites w other breeds #barkoutloud
Mod_Mary: Friend bought a "labradoodle" online.... from OK. Has diagnosed HD at less than 2 years old. #dumb #barkoutloud
ComfyPaws: @kimhalligan1 it's not how many heats they have but the actual age #barkoutloud
Mod_Lorie: @ComfyPaws How do you feel about shipping puppies long distances, as often happens with internet purchases? Seems very stressful. #barkoutloud
Mod_Hilary: I want to know how a breeder follows up on a contract? Diff between online sellers and local? #barkoutloud
ComfyPaws: @Mod_Lorie I haven't sold any pups on the internet but have shipped many - 12 wks is minimum age #barkoutloud
sendchocolate: I found my Newf pup from the recc. list from breed club. Then LOTS of Q&A, but she was out of state. Small hobby breeder. #barkoutloud
Keeping_Awake: Should not breed if not titled, if not through all health clearances for that breed ( in many that's at 2+), at a minimum. #barkoutloud
tacrabtree: @Mod_Hilary - email & phone calls for me - internet sale #barkoutloud
Mod_Lorie: @ComfyPaws Do you ship via airline? Car? Other? #barkoutloud
ComfyPaws: @Mod_Lorie if shipping is nec. I prefer a direct flight - overnight so the pup arrives early #barkoutloud
kimhalligan1: @ComfyPaws Yes thats what I mean. How old? Would think longer is better & to ck health, tempermants. #barkoutloud
ComfyPaws: @Mod_Lorie have shipped via air plus lots of car travel #barkoutloud
Mod_Hilary: @ComfyPaws Would be nice if new owner would drive to get the pup. Commitment! #barkoutloud
ComfyPaws: @kimhalligan1 2 yrs is the minimum age for breeding #barkoutloud
sendchocolate: My pup came at 10 weeks, via airplane. I was a nervous wreck! Had not intended to do out of state, but clicked w/ breeder! #barkoutloud
Keeping_Awake: Most reputable breeders will not ship a dog to you if they do not know you personally. #barkoutloud
tacrabtree: @ComfyPaws - I drove to pickup my pup in another state #barkoutloud
kimhalligan1: @Keeping_Awake I would think maybe even 3-4 yrs old. #barkoutloud
ComfyPaws: did we have Q5? this is scrolling fast #barkoutloud
Mod_Hilary: @ComfyPaws How do you follow up on a contract? #barkoutloud
FlynSam: RT @Mod_Hilary: @ComfyPaws Would be nice if new owner would drive to get the pup. Commitment! < can you say 20 hr rnd trip via car? #barkoutloud
ComfyPaws: Ideally, the breeder and puppy owner are in frequent contact! #barkoutloud
Mod_Hilary: @ComfyPaws Q5 What is the breeder's responsibility for vax, xrays, health checks before pup goes to new home? #barkoutloud
ComfyPaws: The breeder may make a call to remind of an upcoming vaccine or that it's nearing time to spay/neuter. #barkoutloud
sendchocolate: @Keeping_Awake I don't know that I agree. If they talk to you and interview and get to "know" you... it can end happily w/ a pup #barkoutloud
Mod_Lorie: @ComfyPaws Do you want to do Q5 or move on to Q6? #barkoutloud
ComfyPaws: Q6 is cool #barkoutloud
Mod_Lorie: Q6. How does a breeder follow up on a contract? #barkoutloud
FlynSam: RT @ComfyPaws: The breeder may make a call to remind of an upcoming vaccine or that its nearing time to spay/neuter. <<Mine does #barkoutloud
Mod_Mary: @ComfyPaws We are nearing the end of this chat...! Can u blieve how fast? #barkoutloud
Keeping_Awake: Most reputable breeders will be in constant contact first 6 mos with buyer. #barkoutloud
ComfyPaws: Q7 anyone? #barkoutloud
Keeping_Awake: And breeder should be a lifetime training, health and behavior resource and take dog back if necessary at any time #barkoutloud
ComfyPaws: @Keeping_Awake more importantly - breeders should be available to answer all questions and offer support at any time #barkoutloud
Mod_Hilary: @ComfyPaws The official Q7: How has microchipping helped? #barkoutloud
kimhalligan1: My breeder also stipulated dog is to stay in my family only. She will take back any dogs she bred. Wont happen here, but good idea #barkoutloud
ComfyPaws: A7 Permanent ID greatly increases the chances of a pet being returned it lost or stolen #barkoutloud
ComfyPaws: A7 Owners MUST register that chip number with a recovery service for this to be valuable. #barkoutloud
ComfyPaws: A7 I prefer AKC Companion Animal Recovery http://tinyurl.com/y5qtyzf and have used NDR in the past >> #barkoutloud
ComfyPaws: A7 for tattoos http://tinyurl.com/y26x44e #barkoutloud
Mod_Lorie: Yes, otherwise worthless! RT @ComfyPaws: A7 Owners MUST register that chip number with a recovery service for this to be valuable. #barkoutloud
ComfyPaws: A7 OFA requires all dogs be chipped prior to genetic screening #barkoutloud
ComfyPaws: A7 Many breeders chip the pups and submit DNA - all info becomes part of the dog's permanent record. #barkoutloud
tacrabtree: does anybody but vets check for microchipping? Don't think our city would if dog is picked up. very concerning #barkoutloud
ComfyPaws: @Mod_Lorie you'd be surprised how many folks don't! #barkoutloud
Mod_Lorie: @tacrabtree Yeah, that's a concern for me in my area too. #barkoutloud
Keeping_Awake: @tacrabtree Yes, vets and shelters scan for chips. Dog ID tag should say microchipped or have number on it. #barkoutloud
Mod_Lorie: I know it :-( RT @ComfyPaws: @Mod_Lorie youd be surprised how many folks dont! #barkoutloud
Mod_Lorie: Q8. What is the breeder's responsibility if a puppy or adult dog she/he bred needs to be rehomed? #barkoutloud
FlynSam: A& - I only have choices of HOME AGAIN or AVID, can you recommend and why? What age to do this procedure? #barkoutloud
Mod_Hilary: @ComfyPaws Q7 Do you require microchipping/tattoos in contract? #barkoutloud
ComfyPaws: A8 The breeder is responsible for each dog for it's entire life. #barkoutloud
Keeping_Awake: Many breeders will transfer the chip info to yours for you to avoid the problem of not registering the chip. But ASK! #barkoutloud
ComfyPaws: A8 This should be found in the sales agreement. #barkoutloud
ComfyPaws: A8 Dog owners sometimes experience devastating such as divorce, illness or loss of their home #barkoutloud
ComfyPaws: A8 For whatever reason it is the breeders responsibility to provide care/housing for the dog until such time as it can be rehomed. #barkoutloud
ComfyPaws: A8 Often the breeder will keep the dog. I seriously hate the idea of a dog being bounced from home to home. #barkoutloud
ComfyPaws: A8 The flip side: it is the owners responsibility to contact the breeder! #barkoutloud
ComfyPaws: A8 Don't give the dog to a neighbor, place in a shelter, or dump in an outlying area #barkoutloud
Keeping_Awake: Huge difference btw reputable and non-reputable. RT @ComfyPaws: A8 The breeder is responsible for each dog for it's entire life. #barkoutloud
tacrabtree: The plastic tags that are provided w/microchip was worthless for a big dog, broke! #barkoutloud
ComfyPaws: A8 this also should be outlined in the sales agreement #barkoutloud
Keeping_Awake: @tacrabtree Right, put the info on the ID tag too! #barkoutloud
Keeping_Awake: @tacrabtree USe S hooks from the hardware store to attach tags--more secure and no jingling tags. #barkoutloud
Mod_Hilary: Q9: What responsibilities does breeder have if inheritable disorder is discovered after producing pups? #barkoutloud
FlynSam: @Mod_Hilary A7 - I only have choices of HOME AGAIN or AVID, can you recommend and why? What age to do this procedure? #barkoutloud
tacrabtree: I don't see many breeders caring after they felt their pups are all in good homes, maybe too many litters to keep up #barkoutloud
Mod_Hilary: @FlynSam A7 Do it immediately! I've used both HA and Avid, but some vets/shelters can't read one or the other! #barkoutloud
ComfyPaws: A9 First off - there is no perfect pup - each dog carries deleterious genes; even mixed breeds #barkoutloud
ComfyPaws: A9 A breeder cannot guarantee your new pup will not be affect by a heritable defect or disease. #barkoutloud
Keeping_Awake: @tacrabtree Again, this is part of the distinction btw reputable and non-reputable. Rep are involved for dog's lifetime. #barkoutloud
ComfyPaws: A9 All they can guarantee is that they have done everything within their power via genetic screening and #barkoutloud
ComfyPaws: good breeding practices to greatly reduce the risks. #barkoutloud
FlynSam: @Mod_Hilary Never too young? 6 wks is ok? #barkoutloud
ComfyPaws: A9 Not all heritable defects are crippling or have a negative effect on the life of the dog #barkoutloud
ComfyPaws: A9 - any known defects should be listed in the puppy description portion of the sales agreement #barkoutloud
tacrabtree: @Keeping_Awake- agreed! #barkoutloud
Mod_Hilary: A9 One of my GSD breeders, very reputable, said I could get another dog free after my pup got early FCL. #barkoutloud
ComfyPaws: A9 Here's some options: (a) Return the dog for a complete refund; (b) Return the dog for a replacement dog of equal value; #barkoutloud
ComfyPaws: OR (c) Retain the dog and receive reimbursement #barkoutloud
Mod_Lorie: @Mod_Hilary @FlynSam There are universal scanners now that are available to all pounds/shelters that can read all chips. #barkoutloud
Mod_Hilary: @FlynSam I've microchipped dogs as young as 6wks... don't know if there are drawbacks. Tattoos also good. #barkoutloud
tacrabtree: @Mod_Hilary - not much of a consolation, but most breeders will do that #barkoutloud
Mod_Lorie: @Mod_Hilary @FlynSam Or at least indicate that there is a chip there. Yes, 6 weeks is fine. #barkoutloud
ComfyPaws: A9 Breeders may have different policies - be sure this is addressed in the sales agreement. #barkoutloud
ComfyPaws: A9 Know your rights - research Puppy Lemon Laws, if any, in your state. http://tinyurl.com/yz8l2fq #barkoutloud
Mod_Hilary: @Mod_Lorie Good to know that 6wks is ok! #barkoutloud
Keeping_Awake: This heritable defect issue is why you also check all pups these parents have ever produced before buying a pup. #barkoutloud
Keeping_Awake: You can easily check all relatives through OFA and AKC databases. #barkoutloud
Mod_Hilary: Q10: Do breeders usually require the buyers keep the dog intact? If not, when spay/neuter? #barkoutloud
ComfyPaws: @Keeping_Awake that isn't always possible - and a 'heretable defect' could just mean extra white markings #barkoutloud
tacrabtree: @Mod_Lorie - my vet prefered to wait until 3 months for microchip, personal prefference I guess #barkoutloud
ComfyPaws: Q10 Absolutely not! #barkoutloud
ComfyPaws: A10 The only pups that are kept intact are those that will be shown. #barkoutloud
Keeping_Awake: @ComfyPaws Extra white markings are not a health defect. Conformation, maybe. #barkoutloud
ComfyPaws: A10 Breeders require the majority of the puppies to be spayed/neutered altho the required age may vary. #barkoutloud
ComfyPaws: A10 Only dogs that will be shown are given 'full' registration. The others are placed on limited registration #barkoutloud
ComfyPaws: @Keeping_Awake you stated heretable defect - not health issue #barkoutloud
ComfyPaws: A10 ie: cannot be shown or bred but may participate in obed and performance events #barkoutloud
ComfyPaws: there is a huge difference btwn a defect and a disease #barkoutloud
ComfyPaws: A10 Some breeders will 'hold' the registration paper until proof of spay/neuter is provided - I don't think this is effective. #barkoutloud
Mod_Hilary: Interesting to note that reputable breeders have almost the exact requirements of reputable rescues, except genetics & health #barkoutloud
Mod_Lorie: Yes, absolutely. RT @ComfyPaws: there is a huge difference btwn a defect and a disease #barkoutloud
ComfyPaws: A10 There are several ways to encourage compliance: some breeders attach the surgery fee to the #barkoutloud
Keeping_Awake: @ComfyPaws True, was thinking most folks would be thinking about health, should have specified. #barkoutloud
tacrabtree: @ComfyPaws If they have picked a good owner that would not be necessary - holding papers #barkoutloud
Mod_Hilary: Rescues cannot vouch for health or genetics (those are unknown), but do pay for vax, ensure the dog is returned if nec, etc. #barkoutloud
Mod_Mary: Well, I'm going to say "goodnight" to all of you... Thanks @comfypaws for this info! #barkoutloud
FlynSam: All costs are included with @zzFlash full set of vacs, papers, etc. #barkoutloud
tacrabtree: @Mod_Hilary - that brings up the topic of breed specific rescues - maybe a topic for another nite #barkoutloud
Mod_Hilary: Yes, good night to all of you who participated, and thanks so much @comfypaws for a great discussion! #barkoutloud
kimhalligan1: @Mod_Hilary I like the idea of a tatoo for ID on dog. Its visible #barkoutloud
Mod_Hilary: @tacrabtree Yes, I got off-topic w/ rescue, but wanted to indicate that reputable rescues are similar. #barkoutloud
Mod_Lorie: Yes, time to say goodnight. Thank you to all of you for making this an informative and worthwhile chat. #barkoutloud
tacrabtree: Thanks @Mod_Mary #Mod_Hilary & Mod_Lorie for hosting & guest @comfypaws as guest #barkoutloud
Keeping_Awake: @comfpaws Thanks for all your advice tonight. Hope i didn't come on too strong. We agree on most things and I can be to blunt. ;) #barkoutloud
Mod_Lorie: A special thank you to our guest, @ComfyPaws. Great job. Thanks you so much! #barkoutloud