Puppy adoption at Christmas is a hot market. Animal welfare groups warn against this for good reason. Puppy mills undoubtedly gear up their operations for the festive season puppy adoption rush. And then there are always a minority of owners who abandon the puppy the following Easter when it’s no longer cute and interferes with their holiday plans. But one veterinarian warns a hastily purchased pup can be just as dangerous to owner welfare.
Beware of Impulsive Puppy Adoption at Christmas
“If you haven’t taken the time to do your homework before buying a Christmas puppy or any puppy for that matter,” explains Dr Meg Howe, a puppy matching and ethical dog breeding specialist, “It can come right back and bite you down the track.”
The biggest pitfalls, according to Dr Howe, are getting a puppy that’s either poorly bred, poorly prepared for life with humans, or the wrong breed for your family.
Check the Breeding Before Puppy Adoption
Incestuous breeding is a common practice among dog breeders. The pups that result have lower life expectancy and weaker general health. They also are at considerably great risk of serious genetic disorders, even if their parents have been tested. The number of diseases genetic tests screen for are very limited.
“Owners of sick dogs suffer on two fronts, said Dr Howe “Not only are they paying steep and unanticipated veterinary bills for diagnosis and treatment, but watching their best friend’s health deteriorate is an agony all its own.”
Why the Early Rearing by Dog Breeders Matters
A puppy that hasn’t been raised in a loving home environment may have difficulty fitting in with their new family. Studies show that puppy mills and the pet shops they supply are notorious sources of psychologically traumatized dogs. Affected dogs are not fun to live with. Owners can protect themselves by being selective about their puppy adoption sources.
Choose the Right Breed of Dog
“Choosing an inappropriate breed of dog is another common mistake,” Dr Howe warns, “Large, or energetic working dog breeds in anything other than active, capable homes can wreak havoc or even be downright dangerous.”
A more careful puppy adoption choice gives owners the best chance of enjoying a long and happy life with their puppy. Given that your new dog should last at least ten to fifteen years, it’s well worth doing your homework and waiting a few months for the right one rather than impulse buying a Xmas puppy just because the timing makes it a great Christmas gift. Before puppy adoption consider the types of dogs that would fit best with your lifestyle by taking our dog breed selector, then find yourself the best dog breeder. choosing a dog from the perfect litter, selecting a puppy with the right personality, and getting early rearing right will help you and your new fur pal live happily ever after.
