Springtime is puppy and kitten season and a very exciting time for many households as they introduce their new additions to their homes. Pets can bring us much pleasure and unconditional love; however, where you get your pet can make all the difference.

 

We are regularly called asking if we have any puppies or kittens for sale or where can they get one. Our belief is that puppies and kittens should only be purchased from a reputable breeder, rescue or shelter.  The City of Ottawa has mandated that the cats and dogs “sold” in a pet store are only from rescues, humane society or the SPCA. While a store can be a great place to adopt a rescue kitten or cat, rescue puppies require more space than a store can adequately provide. The ideal place to acquire a purebred puppy and purebred kitten is from a reputable breeder who offers full disclosure, warranty, and venerable concern for where their animals end up. A pet purchased through the right source will generally be free of genetic defects, illness, and have a sound temperament, all critical areas of concern to have a happy, healthy puppy or kitten. The best places to start looking are the CKC (Canadian Kennel Club) and the CCA  (Canadian Cat Association) for purebred dogs and cats. These associations set breeding and health standards for the many recognized registered breeds in Canada. The internet is a wonderful resource to find breeders; however, caution should be taken when searching through online sites such as Kijiji, as unscrupulous puppy mills, backyard breeders and individuals often use these sites to sell their unhealthy wares.

 

Rescues with their network of foster homes and the humane society are perfect places to give a second hand pet a new lease on life. A great site to find rescues is petfinder.com. Rescues from all over North America list the pets they have in their rescue on this site. Most rescues take care of any veterinary care and spay and neutering so the modest adoption fee, ranging from $300 to $400, is very reasonable for the services performed. If you’re not quite ready to adopt a pet, a great way to help rescues is to foster. Rescues need foster homes and family’s to keep their rescues until they find their forever homes. Fostering could also be a great way to “test drive” a cat or dog before fully committing to the adoption. Other ways to help is to donate food, treats, toys, crates, and liquor empties which are cashed in to help cover veterinary expenses.

 

Some areas of consideration during the decision making process include:

 * Allergy concerns

 * Tolerance of shedding

 *  Size of dog

 *. Activity level and exercise requirements of a specific breed

 *  Grooming requirements

 *  Compatibility with children and other pets

 * Cost - purchase price of the pet,  veterinary expenses, food and supplies

 

 

Regardless of where you find your next pet, it is crucial you and your family thoroughly do your homework to ensure the right choice has been made for a happy outcome.