The launch of the Lloydminster & District SPCA’s Humane Habits educational program has brought up some interesting discussions around the community. One discussion that I would like to address is breeding. Is the Lloydminster & District SPCA against breeding of companion animals?
NO - we are not against all breeding of companion animals but our vision of a loving responsible home for every animal will not be realized with all the irresponsible breeding that goes on. It goes without saying that we are against irresponsible breeding.
What makes a responsible breeder??
· A responsible breeder ensures that their breeding stock closely conforms to their breed’s specific standard.
· They thoroughly health screen animals for inherited health issues. All breeds have their own set of health issues, many of which can be pre screened for.
· They only ever breed temperamentally sound animals.
· Good breeders, breed to better the breed that they love. The do not breed to make money.
· They only breed when they have pre - approved homes that are able and ready to care for their offspring. They should have an extensive application process to purchase one of their animals.
· Their animals are maintained and cared for as a member of their family. It is not likely that both parents will be present. As they would have searched far and wide to ensure they found a mate that is the perfect compliment to their own breeding program.
· There should be a contract. This contract should have health guarantees, stipulations about what happens to the animal if the family is no longer able to care for it and has strict spay and neuter requirements.
In the end a good breeder does not add to the overburdened shelter system because they produce healthy, sound animals, screen potential homes and are always there for the life of the animals that they produce. If all breeding of companion animals was done in such a responsible way, our vision of a loving, responsible home for every animal is very attainable. Why would we be against that?
Shelly Zimmerman
Executive Director
Lloydminster & District SPCA
