Rescue or Buy?

I get calls here at Pretentious Pooch almost daily asking, “Do you sell [insert breed here]?”  I always try to finish the call with, “I recommend a rescue shelter.”  When I first decided to get a dog my first trip was to the Maryland SPCA.  Ultimately, we bought from a breeder, though.  This isn’t the most politically correct move but here are some things that influenced my decision: amount of paperwork; need for approval; time period; puppyhood; behavioral concerns.  I know why there is a barrier to adopt from rescue shelters and groups but it was just too much, for me.  Ultimately, I wanted a dog that I could mold from the beginning.  I think everyone should raise a puppy once.

Now that I have raised a puppy and my training ability is solid, I think I could handle the special needs of a rescue.  I often feel embarrassed that I bought a puppy, but the decision to do so is very personal; and, adopting a shelter dog isn’t right for everyone considering the skills, knowledge, and environment of the owner. 

I’ll definitely consider a rescue dog the next time I am looking to add a family member to the household and I hope that all my readers consider adopting a dog that has been cast off by someone else as well.  But if you make the decision to buy, as long as it is thought through and rescuing is considered, you will make the right choice.

Here are some links to some rescue shelters. 

BARCS

Maryland SPCA

The Pit Bull Project

Please feel free comment and include any other rescue groups for readers to consider.

Tom Berger

Co-Owner

Pretentious Pooch

Baltimore Pet Boutique

1017 Cathedral Street

Baltimore, MD 21201

443-524-7777

www.pretentiouspooch.com