Why Should You Know Your Breed?

40 years of Veterinary practice have taught me a few things about how, why, and when people choose to bring a new animal into their homes. Often times, people neglect to gather important information about health issues, temperament, breeding, and rearing conditions. I've seen too many people heartbroken by congenital health problems or behavior issues in an animal they already have an emotional connection with. Health problems they may not be able to afford to fix or adequately adjust their lifestyle to deal with. Likewise, many people bring a new animal into their home without thinking about how their lives will change (exercise and space requirements, socializing a young animal properly, creating a stable routine for a young animal, etc). It makes me sick to think of the number of pets that are given away or euthanized due to owner ignorance or lack of preparedness. I want to help educate to create better lives, relationships, and homes for owners and pets alike.

Things to Consider

1. Read up about different species and breeds and get a good understanding of what species and breed would be best suited for your needs. Take into consideration space, time and other pets already in the household. Do you have a large space for a large dog? plenty of time to exercise an active breed (or they could become destructive)? the time to introduce the new pet to your existing pets?
2. Spend A LOT of time gathering this information (a new pet should never be an "impulse buy").
3. Although a conscientious breeder may be an expert on the breed they deal with, you should also consult a veterinarian and a behaviorist to get a well rounded picture. Remember that anyone selling you an animal (a product) is still selling something. Remember that pet store employees might not have any experience with a particular breed. Get expert advice. There is plenty of good information available online, but make sure to check the sources (no breed bias, and an experienced/informed opinion).
4. That cute puppy in the magazine ad will have needs and behaviors you can't see or know by just looks. Don't fall in love with the looks of an animal before you read up about health and behavior issues.
5. The right dog for your best friend/neighbor/cousin is not necessarily the right dog for you!
6. When selecting a new pet, get familial history if possible before you make a commitment. This includes temperament of the parents and grandparents as well as a family tree/pedigree. Does the tree branch or is it a straight line? Have a veterinarian look over the family tree to ensure there is no inbreeding which leads to more congenital defects.
7. Puppies and kittens grow into adult dogs and cats that live for roughly 12+ years. Are you willing to make a lifelong commitment?
8. Pets require medical attention which can be costly. Even healthy pets need yearly exams and vaccinations. Factor in yearly exams, vaccinations, food, and grooming costs when budgeting for a new pet.
9. Get pet insurance! Pet insurance can mean the difference between a deadly disease, and a maintainable disease because you can afford maintenance medication or surgery.

I'm always looking for contributors! Are you an expert on a particular breed? e-mail me at daktarijay@yahoo.com to contribute a guest post.