Animals considered for a breeding program should at a minimum be:
- of appropriate reproductive age (this varies with species and breed - check with your veterinarian for breed-specific advice).
- a sound representation of the breed.
- free from contagious, genetic, chronic or reproductive disease.
- current on vaccinations and not carrying any internal or external parasites that could be passed to offspring.
- housed and cared for in sanitary and situations where the animals will be well-socialized with humans and other animals.
Breeding animals responsibly takes a lot of knowledge, time and money. Breeding pets for a "quick buck" or to "show the kids the miracle of life" is never a good idea, in my opinion. Too often this leads to unplanned veterinary bills (or worse, forgoing necessary veterinary care) and even more animals in need of homes.
Some will argue "we already found homes!" but I have to wonder: were those homes already looking for a pet? Are they well-equipped for a pet? If so, would they have been a great home for an animal awaiting a home in too many shelters across the country?
Pets do require time and money to take care of properly. Sometimes a "great deal" on a "purebred" pet may not turn out to be so great after paying additional vet bills related to poor breeding practices.
Related Reading:
Save A Life. Adopt A Pet.
