Puppy costs. Am I missing anything?

~Chameleon~

silvermist05 wrote: »

Thanks I am aware of puppy farming, I had the misfortune of unknowing visiting one recently. Luckily i didn't take the children with me and it was obvious straight away what was going on.

I hope you've reported them. This is the only way we can hope to get these scumbags closed down. Your local council will be able to help.

Kinski

You should also know that a lot of puppy farmers actually have a network of people who will take pups into their own home and pass them of as pups that they've bred themselves, if you can could you please pass on the details of the puppy farmer to the girls at puppy love, they can then check to see if it's a new one or if it's been going for a while. http://http://www.puppylovecampaigns.org

teddysmum

Although you have insurance, most policies have an excess to pay, so some vet visits aren't worth claiming for.


I agree with the above posts concerning a home bred litter. Some people breed because their pet is lovely, so should produce lovely puppies, not knowing about inherited disease or whether it is in her lines or the father's. Lots think that pedigree means healthy and of good conformation, when in fact, all it proves (and that can be fiddled; I know from experience) is who the antecedents were.


I know that the media have maligned show breeders, claiming that they are only in it for the money, but if you go along to a show and chat to owners, you can get to know who the good breeders are. Good breeders usually have waiting lists for puppies, do not advertise and will vet you as a prospective owner. They will also take responsibility for any puppies they sell, should that dog need help.

Katiehound

As already mentioned Westies can be prone to skin complaints because they have white fur. I remember a neighbour had a westie (she was lovely) but they were constantly on medication and at the vet due to itchy skin.

silvermist05

Thanks everyone sorry I haven't got time to reply to everyone individually but you've all supplied me with things to think about.