I'm always honest when people ask where I got Cooper. I answered this ad in the Sunday paper: black lab/pointer pups, $300. Now that I am familiar with pet overpopulation, and the many adoption and breed-specific rescue options, I can explain to anyone why what I did was wrong.
The guy who sold Cooper to me never asked about my past experiences with dogs, my ideas on housetraining or socializing Cooper, or whether or not I had a yard. He didn't offer to take Cooper back if things didn't work out. Cooper and the rest of the pups were kept in filthy conditions and all had fleas. Still, I couldn't resist. This "breeder's" biggest worry was making sure I spelled his name correctly on my check.
A responsible breeder will treat the process much like our adoption counselors do - like an education, not a simple transaction. They aren't concerned solely with money, but are looking to place their dogs in good homes and will want them back if the fit isn't right. Again, we urge people to consider adoption or rescue groups, but at least know the difference between good and bad breeders.
You might see Scott and his companion, Cooper, around town … avoiding poop. In addition to working for and representing PHS/SPCA, they also volunteer at the Magnolia Center in Burlingame.
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Keep the discussion civilized. Absolutely NO personal attacks or insults directed toward writers, nor others who make comments.
Keep it clean. Please avoid obscene, vulgar, lewd, racist or sexually-oriented language.
Don't threaten. Threats of harming another person will not be tolerated.
Be truthful. Don't knowingly lie about anyone or anything.
Be proactive. Use the 'Report' link on each comment to let us know of abusive posts.
PLEASE TURN OFF YOUR CAPS LOCK.
Anyone violating these rules will be issued a warning. After the warning, comment privileges can be revoked.