Where Did My Puppy Come From?

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Everyone loves a puppy — they’re so cute! Adding a brand new member to your family is a wonderful experience, however, the problem is that unless you take certain precautions, you may not be able to trust that your pet has come from a reputable location.

The Canadian government hasn’t been maintaining the central database where the import of puppies into the country is tracked. This means that, in an already virtually unregulated industry, we have even less information available about where our pets are coming from or ending up.

The CBC’s Marketplace wrote an article about this important topic, and it’s definitely worth a read.

In the article, top Canadian veterinary researcher Dr. Scott Weese, the Ontario Veterinary College’s chief of infection control, said the business of commercially importing dogs lacks adequate regulation. “It’s easier to bring in a dog than a case of beer,” he said.

If you’re thinking about bringing a new puppy into your home, we highly recommend that you do your research. Steer clear of puppy mills where dogs are often mistreated, and avoid purchasing a puppy from another country where you risk getting a pet with a disease. The Canadian Veterinary Medical Association warns there is a risk of importing zoonotic diseases not currently found in Canada.

Here are some important tips to consider if you’re looking for a puppy:

  1. Contact trusted breeders.
  2. Do not trust Kijiji.
  3. Contact your local Humane Society or Canadian Kennel Club for information. They are also an ideal location if you would like to rescue a dog.
  4. If you connect with a breeder, you should be able to see the puppy’s mom.

If you have additional questions, please contact the team at Woodbine Animal Clinic. We’re happy to help you make the best choice for your new family member.

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