Many of you would have seen the show last night on puppy farms and stray dogs. For many people this was a real eye opener to not only the conditions of puppy farms, but also to the number of dogs being taken into the pounds in Ireland every day.

It’s shocking to think that the UK have had the legislation that we are looking for since 1973, and yet we are still waiting for someone to put their signature on a piece of paper to stop this. It’s shocking and they should be ashamed that nothing has been done to take action.

If you have not seen the show, then watch it at the link below.

http://tv3.ie/3player/show/243/41582/1/Animal-A&E

At is happens all of our pets have been either from the rescue centres or they have just arrived as a stray at our door.

Lucky started her life with us nearly 3 years ago, sadly passing away a few months ago from a stroke. She was a stray and just appeared in our garden one day. She was an older dog, but it was clear she had been overbred and been stray for some times. Bringing her back to health and giving her a happy home for the rest of her days was the most amazing thing to do. Whilst it is hard then to have them for such a short time – at the same time who knows what would have happened to her if we hadn’t taken her in.

Lucky Before

Lucky After

It does take time and hard work to integrate a pet into the home when you are unsure really where they have come from or what their life has been to up to the point when you get them. But it is also one of the most rewarding things to be able to do for an animal. The love and appreciation they have for you is overwhelming.

Getting a dog, or any pet, is a big commitment and it’s important to think about your own circumstances before you make a decision.

• What size is your home – as this affects the breed of dog you should get?
• What are you work commitments – is the dog going to be home alone all day? Do you have time to walk it every day?
• Can you afford it – it was reported that a medium sized dog cost 1500 euro per year. It’s not just food you need to purchase, vets bills can add up to.
• Do you have the time to spend with it – training it, playing with it, feeding it and giving it the love it wants and deserves?

I personally would always get a rescue dog, with our newest addition being Coco, but I do understand some people want to get a particular breed of puppy. But it’s important to ALWAYS do your homework.

If someone is
• Rushing you to make a decision
• Won’t show you the parents or where the dog lives
• Wants to bring the pups to you

Then I would NOT take a puppy from them. Go to a registered breeder where you know they are following best practices.

Rescue Dog or from a legitimate Breeder, a pet is a wonderful addition to any family!