Affectionate Pet Care's Amy Lewett discusses a plethora of subjects

Looking to adopt a homeless pet from a rescue organization, or from a reputable breeder?

Click here for a list of local animal rescue leagues

Click here for a list of reputable breeders

Breeder notes: (Amy's option of good breeding & important info. that you should know before adopting a puppy from a breeder)

When searching for the right breeder make sure to question the following:

1. Do the sire & dam have OFA certification? This is The Orthopedic Foundation for Animals which has established criteria for soundness of hips and elbows. Hip Dysplasia is genetic and is common to be found in offspring of dogs with less than excellent hip scores.

2. Have the sire & dam been checked by an ophthalmologist for potential genetic or traumatically induced defects or diseases of the eye? They should be CERF certified. This is the Canine Eye Registration Foundation who have established standards which should have been met prior to breeding.

3. How is the overall general health of the sire & dam? Unhealthy dogs should not be bred. They should be free of any abnormalities, deleterious conditions, or disorders. Did the dog’s Vet suggest to breed both dogs?

4. How was the health of the dam during nursing of the puppies? Were they nursed full term? They normally wean at about five to seven weeks. Fully nursed puppies are generally healthy and have strong immune systems.

5. How is the temperament of both sire & dam? Have there been any incidents of attacks to people or dogs? Are they good with children? Do they get along with other dogs? Are they hyperactive or lethargic? Are they timid or fearful? Both temperaments should be sound.

6. Where will the puppies be raised? They should have plenty of personal interaction and good care. They should live indoors, but be allowed outside as well. They should live in clean conditions. They should not be raised in cages!

7. Will you be able to view where the pups have been raised? Do both parents live on the premises? You should confirm what the breeder tells you with your own eyes.

8. Can you see both parent's Pedigree? You should check the Pedigree to research the ancestry and be sure that the blood lines are not closely crossed. Question any crossed blood lines. Only extremely experienced breeders should crossbreed.

9. Are the parents registered with AKC? This is the American Kennel Club. For more information on the AKC visit www.akc.org. The AKC now offers DNA profiling and paternity testing for frequently used males.

10. Can the breeder provide you with references? Always use an experienced reputable breeder. Ask previously adopted puppy owners about the health and temperament of their dog.

11. Don't forget that there is an ever growing population of homeless animals and our local rescue organizations work hard and spend a lot of money saving their lives. Before you purchase your puppy just take a look at the rescue websites to see if there is a homeless puppy, or dog that may fit in your lifestyle. Consider Fostering a pet to help give one a temporary home, and who knows he or she may steal your heart and be the pet you were looking for. When adopting from a rescue organization they will help you find the right pet for you and make sure that it is the right fit for both you and the dog.