I never said adopting dogs was bad or that all dogs and cats from shelters are unhealthy, just that purchasing a dog from a breeder is nothing to be ashamed of and isn't some shady transaction that Rachel needs to feel weird about. In the future I'll probably adopt a dog but I wanted a specific breed, there were no shelters that had border terrier puppies so I went with a breeder.ohliveuh wrote:I hate to add to an off topic debate, but I just want to make this one point. If you're under the impression that getting a pure-bred dog from a breeder makes it healthier than a mutt from a shelter, you are...sorely mistaken. As long as the shelter dog is up to date on shots and what not, or has not been pre-disposed to a disease/been abused, they are likely to live longer and propose less complications later in their lives in most situations. And most abused dogs just need some TLC and an owner that is willing to devote time and love to them and take them for check-ups when needed. Pure-breds are incredibly inbred and have many issues that are unavoidable in a lot of breeds. There's thousands of dogs and cats that are in need of homes and are at risk of being euthanized, and usually mutts are more healthy and at lower risk of having complications later on in life. And although I don't agree with buying animals, if you really feel the need to do it, an independent breeder is your best option so I hope those of you who have bought your animals have gone that route. Pet stores are just working for all the puppy mills. And that's all I have to say on that topic.
I mean why does she even feel weird about it if her dog at home is pure-bred?