Where is the best place to buy a dog? Or where are the best places to look for something special - adoption services? animal shelters? is there an internet site that focuses on dog "dealing"?

And what are the downsides of getting a dog from the pound? Is getting a dog from a pet store a smart move? How can you make sure you get a healthy animal?

Thanks!

The featured dog, Mufasa has amazing eyes, btw.

Those are some great questions!

Finding the right dog should be a fun and enjoyable experience for everyone involved. When considering where to get a dog you should know what kind of dog you are going to bring into your family. That does not mean that you must know what breed you would like, but you should know what you are capable of providing for the animal before bring them into your life. Remember, they depend on you to give them fulfillment and time. Assuming you have already made sure you are capable of supporting an animal, here are some things to consider when thinking of adding a dog to your family.

-What size of dog are you interested in?
-Do you have space?
-Are you considering a puppy and if so are you able to raise them(they require a lot of love and time!)?
-Are you wanting a dog that is house broken or mature?
-Are you interested in a specific breed and can you accommodate that breed's tendencies?
-Do you have a veterinarian picked out?

If you have lots of space, a big heart and are open to any type or size of dog, then adopting would be a great thing to consider! A local animal shelter or humane society is a great place to start. Even if you are interested in a specific breed, but would like to adopt a dog in need of a home, there are many breed specific adoption agencies such as Husky Camp. As a matter of fact, Mufasa and his beautiful blue eyes were rescued by Husky Camp! You can learn more about them or their partnering adopting agencies from our partners page, or by going to HuskyCamp.com

If you have picked out a veterinarian you may be surprised to know that they have many animals in need of good homes. On occasion they may even need to place a litter of puppies. You should always consider letting your animal hospital or clinic know you are interested in an addition to your family and the perfect companion may just find you!

If you are interested in a specific breed and would like to go through a breeder, that is ok too. You should choose a breeder that you can build a relationship with and that only breeds a few litters a year at most. Remember that a puppy's first few and most important months are while in the care of the breeder. Not only should you choose a breeder that conforms to all codes and standards, but also one that cares for the puppies in a way that you agree with.

Pet stores and internet sites that focus on puppy dealing are not generally recommended. While some pet stores do exist that strive to uphold humane standards, as a general guide if someone is making money off of puppies, or only doing it for the money, they are not a safe place to look. Pet stores like PetSmart have regular adoption clinics and do not make money on them but instead try to build a relationship with you and your animal so you will purchase supplies from them. This seems like a much better foundation for a relationship with your new addition to the family.

As far as the risk of health concerns when adopting, any reputable agency will have had the dog examined and treated as required prior to adoption. It is always a good idea to take your new companion to your own veterinarian to be examined and familiarized as soon as possible.

I hope this helps and I appreciate the great questions! Feel free to keep them coming!

Kind Regards,

-Cory

Thanks a bunch! Will keep you posted...

Husky Camp is a GREAT place, I live in Wrightwood, very close to them!!!