Kitty Hawk police are offering up some tips on making sure folks don’t get duped when adding a purebred furry family member to their pack.
“Some people believe buying a dog from a breeder is a guarantee of quality and health,” the police department said in a news release.
Purchasing a puppy is always a lottery, but a breeder should offer information on the puppy’s parents and their lines, both regarding health, looks and temperament.
Pet stores and other sellers may accept a breeder’s statement that a puppy is a specific breed. Many times, the store will give the same information to the potential buyer.
Tips to help find that perfect purebred dog:
- To determine if a dog is a recognized purebred, request the registration documents from a dog registry organization such as the American Kennel Club, Canine Kennel Club or the Continental Kennel Club.
- For a non-recognized breed, such as a designer breed, get a second opinion from an expert.
- Meet the seller and dog in person wherever the animal is being housed and ask for medical records before signing a contract or paying.
And remember, the Outer Banks SPCA and other rescue groups are overflowing with wonderful dogs in need of homes.
This story originally appeared on OBXToday.com. Read More local stories here.
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