If you’re looking to get a pet – how do you know you’re getting one from a reputable source?
This week, we saw a puppy farm in Tasmania shut down and 250 dogs seized after the RSPCA accused the facility of overbreeding – some of the rescued dogs have had no contact with humans at all.
While no charges of animal cruelty have been brought against the owners in this case, puppy mills are often associated with animal cruelty.
So, how can you know if your new furry friend is from one of these places? And how can you spot a lousy breeder from a good one? The Briefing podcast asked Sarah Zito from the RSPCA.
Red Flags when buying a pet from a breeder
1. If a breeder refuses to let you visit their home or breeding facility to meet the puppy and its parents, it’s a major red flag.
2. Be wary if they insist on meeting you elsewhere or arranging delivery instead of allowing you to see where the puppy is raised.
3. Limited or dismissive responses to your questions about the puppy’s health and background should also raise concerns.
4. Ensure the breeder provides proper health clearances and documentation for the puppy; absence of these documents is a significant warning sign.
Green Flags when buying a pet from a breeder
1. Make sure the breeder asks detailed questions to ensure you and the pet will be a good match.
2. A breeder should offer support and information to new owners, showing their commitment to the pet’s well-being throughout its life.
3.A good breeder will provide a guarantee to take back the pet within a specified period if things don’t work out.
4. A breeder should provide references from previous buyers and a vet who can vouch for their responsible care practices.
Sarah also urged prospective pet owners to consider adopting a pet from a welfare or rescue organisation.
“Puppies and kittens from reputable welfare organizations like the RSPCA have been checked to ensure that they’re suitable for adoption and they’ve been vaccinated, desexed and microchipped. So all of that’s already done for you. The staff can also give you good advice about caring for your new companion. And potentially ongoing support if you need it.”
“That adopting this way also means you’re helping those organisations to take care of even more animals than needs, so you’re giving back as well as helping your own animal. And you also know that you’re not supporting a puppy farm or a kitten farmer, and you’re responsible breeder by adopting. So those are all really good reasons why you might want to adopt and remember that.”
Subscribe to The Briefing, Australia’s fastest-growing news podcast on LiSTNR today. The Briefing serves up the latest news and deep dives on topics affecting you, all in under 20 minutes.