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Purebred dogs vs Shelter dogs

Photo credit: Dayton Daily News
Yesterday on Twitter, there was a post about an adoptable dog and someone had replied with "well their adoption fees are more expensive than some papered purebreds. People would adopt more if it was more affordable!" My first thought was: That's exactly why animals are in shelters; For YOUR affordability. (Ironically, this person calls themselves a "Pit Bull advocate." See: Abuse of the term "advocate.")

This brings up many points:

"Papered" means nothing. It's literally a piece of paper with no value. Any so-called "breeder" can register anything, even mutts. And I'll tell you right now, if you paid $100 for a dog with "papers" those don't even prove the dog is of pure bred lineage.

There are pure bred dogs in shelters.

Most shelters have fees under $200. So think about what you're actually getting if you're purchasing a dog for this little with "papers" that are "pure bred." (Many times, a sick, unvaccinated dog)

Shelters have fees for a reason. Many are open access, which means they cannot turn any away animal that comes through their doors. Many are government run which means any funding they get only provides the bare minimum.

These adoption fees include: Spay or Neuter of the animal, age appropriate vaccinations, de-worming and microchipping. Some even provide a leash/collar, carrier, or even a free vet visit. You will get none of that if you buy a dog for $100 on Craigslist or in the WalMart parking lot.

Less than $200 for all of the above is not "expensive" by any means. Again, look at what's included. Some rescues do have fees higher than $200, usually for puppies who require multiple rounds of vaccinations, deworming, etc.

Animal shelters don't exist to provide "cheap" pets to people. They exist because of irresponsible breeders and owners. They exist because of pet overpopulation. They exist because there is a lack of resources. Not for your convenience.

I am not against responsible breeders by any means. "Responsible" being a breeder that does NOT BREED FOR PROFIT. A GOOD breeder does NOT make a profit. Period. In fact, a good breeder loses money and puts it towards the health and wellbeing of their dogs. What you're paying for is health testing, temperament, champions, etc. A responsible breeder breeds for health and temperament first and foremost. Responsible breeders do not breed mutts. (That's a whole other can of worms!)

Photo credit: ilovemydog.com

The takeaway here is: Not only is the initial "fee" for a shelter dog worth its while, you are literally saving the lives of TWO dogs. The one you adopted and the one who took its place. 

If you think buying a dog for the price of a shelter dog is somehow more "reasonable" or "more affordable" think again. 



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