Be wary of breeders looking for fast money

Published 5:00 pm Saturday, June 25, 2011

By CAREY SHARP

Mower County Humane Society

Dogs have always been an important part of my life.

My family always had dogs. Most of these wonderful animals were mixed breeds, affectionately called “mutts” by those of us who loved them. Some of them came to us as “freebies” that adopted us, while others were adopted for a small fee from shelters or dog pounds. Sometimes we tried to piece together the different breeds behind the wagging tails, but mostly we just enjoyed them as they were — lovable, loyal companions.

Today’s mixed breeds have taken on a new title. No longer known as mutts, these dogs are now referred to as “designer breeds” and people are paying exorbitant amounts of money for them.

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The local papers in many communities are filled with ads for maltipoos, yorkipoos, puggles, and numerous other combinations, some selling for $300 or even more. It seems that any mix of two different breeds constitutes a “designer breed” and is a chance for some backyard breeder to make money.

Shelters all over are filled with these mixed breeds. At the MCHS we frequently play “guess the breed” when we take in a new dog. We’ve seen homeless puggles, cockapoos, yorkie mixes, and shih-tzu mixes. We’ve had lab mixes of every type, shepherd mixes, pit mixes, and chihuahua mixes. We’re currently home to what we think could be a puggle-beagle mix. We could probably refer to him as a “designer-designer breed.”

People often seek out these “designer breeds” because they’re looking for certain breed traits. However there is absolutely no reason to support the backyard breeders who are flooding the area with these dogs. Shelters are the original homes of “designer breeds.” So please, don’t shop, adopt.

Volunteers at the MCHS were very pleased with the results of our recent rummage sale held at the Mower County Fairgrounds. We raised $4,100 thanks to sales and generous donations. A huge thanks to all who donated items and money and to all the volunteers who worked hard to pull it together.

On June 18, Jerry’s Other Place hosted its third annual Dog Day by the River to benefit the MCHS. Approximately $2,200 was raised. Our thanks to Scott and Julie Johnson and the wonderful group at Jerry’s, KAUS radio, Double K Specialty, Roberts Specialty Co., and Mayor Tom Stiehm. We always appreciate your support.

The Fourth of July festivities are fast approaching. Please leave your dogs at home. Every year, dogs are dragged out in the heat to parades, carnivals and fireworks. The noise, chaos and heat can be very detrimental. They’re more comfortable at home.

Finally, the MCHS would like to acknowledge donations received in memory of Louise Wolf, Crystal Andersen, Mavis Fritsch, Evelyn Peterson and “Taz” Hueman.