Important Facts You Need To know Before You Buy A Collie
With the mass information now available on the internet, prospective
buyers may often become confused by conflicting information. The
following represents guidelines to assist the knowledge of recognizing
reputable breeders and is based on the author's sixteen years of
experience in collie breeding and exhibiting as well as experience in collie
rescue, therapy dogs, obedience and collie club activities.
1) Reputable breeders have a solid knowledge of the collie breed
standard of excellence as well as breed specific inheritable issues. Their
involvement revolves around an ethically-based belief of actions in
accordance with the betterment of the breed.
2) Knowing that to attain this goal of betterment of the breed, they must
align themselves with avenues of resources and learning; reputable
breeders are most often members of collie and/or all breed clubs where
they may stay aprised of issues pertaining to the collie.
3) The breeders litters are carefully planned and researched. They will
be able to answer indepth questions about the subsequent generations
of the litter and have a purpose for their breedings other than to just sell
puppies. There will often be a period of wait for one of their puppies as
they are not interested in mass production of puppies as is the case
with indiscriminate breeders who breed often and for profit.
4) Reputable breeders do not use "sales tactics" such as color, sex or
the words "champion lines" to sell their puppies. They recognize their
puppies as living creatures and take their placement in new homes very
seriously. They will more concerned about prospective puppy owners
finding the right dog to fit into their family, no matter who they buy from,
rather than being concerned that the dog is purchased from them.
Expect them to want to know some extensive information concerning
prospective puppy buyers.
5)These breeders will not want their puppies going to new homes at too
young of an age, being concerned with their emotional and social issues.
6) Often times dealing in contracts and health guarantees, these things
offer protection to the buyer, seller and to the puppy.
7) Reputable breeders can be recognized by their accomplishments. Be
wary of trusting mere words. Trust more in what the breeders
accomplishments and actions tell you.
8) These breeders will make themselves available to people that
purchase their dogs for assistance long after the dog leaves the
breeders home.
9)They will be known as reputable among their peers and have no
problem with offering references if they are asked for.
10) Reputable breeders will furnish an eye check performed by a
certified veterinary ophthalmologist upon purchase of the puppy.
Buying a puppy without an eye check is extremely risky.
***There seems to be some opinion-based information on the internet
regarding C.E.A. If you have concerns or confusion regarding C.E.A.,
first check the source of the information, making sure it is fact rather
than opinion based. If need be, ask a veterinary ophthalmologist
directly. A breeder in your area should be able to give you information
on the location of the nearest one. As unless the condition is detached
retinas, a collie with C.E.A. can live a normal healthy life.
Copyright 2005
With the mass information now available on the internet, prospective
buyers may often become confused by conflicting information. The
following represents guidelines to assist the knowledge of recognizing
reputable breeders and is based on the author's sixteen years of
experience in collie breeding and exhibiting as well as experience in collie
rescue, therapy dogs, obedience and collie club activities.
1) Reputable breeders have a solid knowledge of the collie breed
standard of excellence as well as breed specific inheritable issues. Their
involvement revolves around an ethically-based belief of actions in
accordance with the betterment of the breed.
2) Knowing that to attain this goal of betterment of the breed, they must
align themselves with avenues of resources and learning; reputable
breeders are most often members of collie and/or all breed clubs where
they may stay aprised of issues pertaining to the collie.
3) The breeders litters are carefully planned and researched. They will
be able to answer indepth questions about the subsequent generations
of the litter and have a purpose for their breedings other than to just sell
puppies. There will often be a period of wait for one of their puppies as
they are not interested in mass production of puppies as is the case
with indiscriminate breeders who breed often and for profit.
4) Reputable breeders do not use "sales tactics" such as color, sex or
the words "champion lines" to sell their puppies. They recognize their
puppies as living creatures and take their placement in new homes very
seriously. They will more concerned about prospective puppy owners
finding the right dog to fit into their family, no matter who they buy from,
rather than being concerned that the dog is purchased from them.
Expect them to want to know some extensive information concerning
prospective puppy buyers.
5)These breeders will not want their puppies going to new homes at too
young of an age, being concerned with their emotional and social issues.
6) Often times dealing in contracts and health guarantees, these things
offer protection to the buyer, seller and to the puppy.
7) Reputable breeders can be recognized by their accomplishments. Be
wary of trusting mere words. Trust more in what the breeders
accomplishments and actions tell you.
8) These breeders will make themselves available to people that
purchase their dogs for assistance long after the dog leaves the
breeders home.
9)They will be known as reputable among their peers and have no
problem with offering references if they are asked for.
10) Reputable breeders will furnish an eye check performed by a
certified veterinary ophthalmologist upon purchase of the puppy.
Buying a puppy without an eye check is extremely risky.
***There seems to be some opinion-based information on the internet
regarding C.E.A. If you have concerns or confusion regarding C.E.A.,
first check the source of the information, making sure it is fact rather
than opinion based. If need be, ask a veterinary ophthalmologist
directly. A breeder in your area should be able to give you information
on the location of the nearest one. As unless the condition is detached
retinas, a collie with C.E.A. can live a normal healthy life.
Copyright 2005
Be aware . . . That Collies are susceptible to adverse reactions to
the following medications;
Imodium® an anti-diarrheal medicine
Ivermectin used for heartworm prevention and treatment
Deramaxx a non-steroidal anti-inflammatory medicine for pain
Rimadyl a non-steroidal anti-inflammatory medicine
Multidrug Sensitivities a genetic mutation can cause Collies to have
problems with a variety of drugs, including many over-the-counter
medications.
the following medications;
Imodium® an anti-diarrheal medicine
Ivermectin used for heartworm prevention and treatment
Deramaxx a non-steroidal anti-inflammatory medicine for pain
Rimadyl a non-steroidal anti-inflammatory medicine
Multidrug Sensitivities a genetic mutation can cause Collies to have
problems with a variety of drugs, including many over-the-counter
medications.
| Please read more on adverse reactions Click here |
| Please read about C.E.A. (collie eye anomaly) Click here |
| History Of Smooth Collies Click here |
What is a Responsible Pet Owner?
A responsible pet owner is someone who helps to keep pets -- and people
-- healthy and happy.
They provide proper care for their pet. This includes food & water,
shelter, veterinary care and love & attention. They protect the health and
safety of their pets and their community. They also prevent their pets from
roaming free and producing unwanted litters.
Questions For Prospective Buyers
Are you aware and fully prepared to physically and financially take on the
responsibility of owning a collie?
Are you aware of the vet care , training, time and effort it takes to raise a
puppy properly?
Are you aware that you must devote your time and care to the life of a
puppy or an adult collie?
Are you aware that collies are a high maintenance breed?
Are you aware of the time it takes to groom a collie?
Are you aware that collies are sensitive and are happiest when with their
people?
Are you aware that collies are known barkers?
Are you aware of collie health issues?
Are you aware of the financial demands for a purebred puppy?
Puppies require round the clock care and attention
Adult collies require the same amount of care and attention
Think before buying or adopting a collie:
Taking care of a pet is a big commitment!
Responsible pet care means providing:
Food (healthy, well-balanced dog food) and Fresh clean water
Shelter (from inclement weather, and from extreme temperatures)
Veterinary Care
Immunization (Rabies, Distemper, Hepititis, Leptospirosis (after 1 yr of
age), Parainfluenza, Parvo, Corona)
Parasite prevention/treatment (against fleas, ticks, worms, etc.)
Elimination access (3-4 times daily for adult dogs, more for puppies)
Grooming (brushing, bathing, etc.)
Exercise, play, socialization and stimulation (backyard exercise is not
enough)
Companionship, interaction and affection, as well as being a part of the
family indoors.
Humane treatment & handling
Obedience training (using humane methods)
Be ready to honor that commitment for the life of your pet.
Choose your pet wisely: Avoid picking a pet on impulse. Take some time
to find out about the needs and habits of different breeds and species.
Know what you're getting into. Know your responsibilities: Most
communities have leash laws, licensing and vaccination laws, etc. It's your
responsibility to know and obey these laws. Prepare for your pet's arrival:
Have bedding, safe toys, etc., ready before you bring your pet home.
Clear your pet's living area of poisons, sharp objects, and objects that
could be swallowed. Remove any valuable items the pet could break or ruin.
Expect some problems: Even with the most well-behaved pet, there will be
some unpleasant moments. Younger pets may take a lot of time to train.
Be patient, and work to correct your new pet's bad habits. Think twice:
Make sure you're willing and able to provide proper care for a pet. A
neglected pet will be unhappy and make you miserable too!
Why Should I Learn About Responsible Pet Ownership?
Because only responsible owners can raise well-behaved pets. That is
important for everyone! Pets of irresponsible owners cost taxpayers
millions of dollars for animal control services each year and spread
disease. They also destroy property ranging from shrubs to livestock.
The real victims of irresponsible owners are often the pets themselves.
Animal overpopulation, accidents, neglect and cruelty kill millions of
animals each year.
So please do your research, ask questions, please educate yourself on
this wonderful breed before buying or adopting your collie puppy, adult
or rescue.
Thanks!
Lacy Sweet
Reminder....Immodium and Ivermectin products are toxic to Collies!!!!
A responsible pet owner is someone who helps to keep pets -- and people
-- healthy and happy.
They provide proper care for their pet. This includes food & water,
shelter, veterinary care and love & attention. They protect the health and
safety of their pets and their community. They also prevent their pets from
roaming free and producing unwanted litters.
Questions For Prospective Buyers
Are you aware and fully prepared to physically and financially take on the
responsibility of owning a collie?
Are you aware of the vet care , training, time and effort it takes to raise a
puppy properly?
Are you aware that you must devote your time and care to the life of a
puppy or an adult collie?
Are you aware that collies are a high maintenance breed?
Are you aware of the time it takes to groom a collie?
Are you aware that collies are sensitive and are happiest when with their
people?
Are you aware that collies are known barkers?
Are you aware of collie health issues?
Are you aware of the financial demands for a purebred puppy?
Puppies require round the clock care and attention
Adult collies require the same amount of care and attention
Think before buying or adopting a collie:
Taking care of a pet is a big commitment!
Responsible pet care means providing:
Food (healthy, well-balanced dog food) and Fresh clean water
Shelter (from inclement weather, and from extreme temperatures)
Veterinary Care
Immunization (Rabies, Distemper, Hepititis, Leptospirosis (after 1 yr of
age), Parainfluenza, Parvo, Corona)
Parasite prevention/treatment (against fleas, ticks, worms, etc.)
Elimination access (3-4 times daily for adult dogs, more for puppies)
Grooming (brushing, bathing, etc.)
Exercise, play, socialization and stimulation (backyard exercise is not
enough)
Companionship, interaction and affection, as well as being a part of the
family indoors.
Humane treatment & handling
Obedience training (using humane methods)
Be ready to honor that commitment for the life of your pet.
Choose your pet wisely: Avoid picking a pet on impulse. Take some time
to find out about the needs and habits of different breeds and species.
Know what you're getting into. Know your responsibilities: Most
communities have leash laws, licensing and vaccination laws, etc. It's your
responsibility to know and obey these laws. Prepare for your pet's arrival:
Have bedding, safe toys, etc., ready before you bring your pet home.
Clear your pet's living area of poisons, sharp objects, and objects that
could be swallowed. Remove any valuable items the pet could break or ruin.
Expect some problems: Even with the most well-behaved pet, there will be
some unpleasant moments. Younger pets may take a lot of time to train.
Be patient, and work to correct your new pet's bad habits. Think twice:
Make sure you're willing and able to provide proper care for a pet. A
neglected pet will be unhappy and make you miserable too!
Why Should I Learn About Responsible Pet Ownership?
Because only responsible owners can raise well-behaved pets. That is
important for everyone! Pets of irresponsible owners cost taxpayers
millions of dollars for animal control services each year and spread
disease. They also destroy property ranging from shrubs to livestock.
The real victims of irresponsible owners are often the pets themselves.
Animal overpopulation, accidents, neglect and cruelty kill millions of
animals each year.
So please do your research, ask questions, please educate yourself on
this wonderful breed before buying or adopting your collie puppy, adult
or rescue.
Thanks!
Lacy Sweet
Reminder....Immodium and Ivermectin products are toxic to Collies!!!!
| One of several great collie books, check it out! |