Is Joe Biden in the doghouse?

When we told you last week about Vice President-elect Joe Biden's new German shepherd puppy, we suspected a few of you might be mad that he chose to purchase from a breeder rather than adopt.  (Truthfully, we were a little upset ourselves. Was Biden unaware of the many shepherds available in animal shelters and rescues nationwide? We can't recall the last time we went to a shelter without seeing at least two or three.) 

We were a little surprised, though, by the flood of comments we received. A few supported Biden's choice, but a lot of you were pretty angry with the future VP. And animal activists all across the country are chiming in as well. 

PETA blogger Christine Doré said:

Ugh. I'm sorely upset about this -- not to mention worried that his supporters will now all run out and get purebred German shepherds. I mean, not only is it really out of touch with dog issues to buy a dog from a breeder -- or plain cold-hearted -- it's such a bad idea that one New Mexico county has just banned selling dogs from pet stores altogether. At least some Americans know what's up. So what's with our future vice president?

PETA also noted that it will be investigating an allegation that the breeder from whom Biden purchased the puppy is "a known puppy mill operator."

Michael Markarian, executive vice president of the Humane Society of the United States, told the Philadelphia Inquirer, "We are surprised that Sen. Biden chose to purchase a dog from a commercial kennel since he has been a leader on animal-protection issues and has championed a number of important animal-welfare reforms in the Senate ... President-elect Obama can send a stronger message of hope and change for animals by adopting a homeless dog from an animal shelter or rescue group."

The Inquirer's article also notes that Biden spokeswoman Elizabeth Alexander defended the vice president-elect:

" 'Vice President-elect Biden has a stellar animal-rights record, and was one of only seven senators who in 2008 received a 100 percent rating from the Humane Society, which also called him a 'Humane Champion' and a 'prime-sponsor of pro-animal-rights legislation,'  Alexander said."

She added: "He is an advocate for rescuing animals, as shown by his rescue of the Biden's current cat, Daisy, from a local shelter."

-- Lindsay Barnett

Photo: J. Scott Applewhite / Associated Press

Comments

[SJA]

This act is legal, a personal decision and none of our business. I've worked countless for a large animal rescue and humane societies. Yet I can still say, just let the man and puppy enjoy their new relationship.

[Kate Woodviolet]

I was VERY disappointed that Joe Biden chose to go to a breeder. According to the Humane Society of the U.S., Biden is supposed to have a superlative rating with regard to animal issues. But he had a national spotlight and and he used it to buy a puppy from a breeder, when every day dogs (and cats, and rabbits, and many others) are killed at shelters because no one will give them a home.

For me the biggest highlight post-election was hearing Barack Obama say, when asked about his family's plans for their new dog, "Of course we'd prefer to get a shelter dog."

It seemed to signal a huge change from 230 years of plutocrats and their automatic, oblivious preference for breeder's dogs in the White House. It seemed like an administration that would stand up for, in Obama's words, "A mutt like me." It also seemed like someone in the national spotlight was finally recognizing the need for love and compassion when choosing a new dog or cat, rather than displaying a "shopper" mentality -- someone who understood that animals aren't products.

Then Joe Biden buys a puppy -- who wasn't desperate for a home. Who wasn't watching the hours tick down until a shelter kills him for lack of space, or because he's too big, or too old, or too black, or too whatever.

Joe Biden could have done something great. But he did the same old thing famous people have been doing for years. He didn't just blow it, he betrayed people who voted for him because they hoped his voting record on animals meant a real shift towards compassion from this White House.

[Joe Carr]

The question is would you buy a used car from some unknown "car shelters" without knowing its history? Likewise, why take chances with some unknown dogs from some government-run animal shelters without knowing the dog's history? We have Carfax and Experian Auto to check used cars. Until there is a "Dogfax," Joe Biden makes the right decision in getting his new car, opps I mean dog from a reputable dog dealer who truly knows his/her stock.

[GsdMom]

Being a huge fan of German Shepherds as well as the proud adopter of two as rescues, I have to agree with his choice of breed. I also agree with choosing a REPUTABLE breeder, as without them, purebreds would cease to exist. It is his dog, let him enjoy it regardless of your opinion of where it came from!

[JBH]

While I could be quick to judge Joe for his decision, those who are questioning why maybe could look at this being an example of how things are today. While we hope for and ask for change, those of us who want people to adopt shelter dogs are missing something if our words are not getting across to people like Joe.

We are quick to judge others, but forget that everyone does the best they can at the time with what they know. So the only thing I suggest we do is to ask "what's missing that we are not getting?"

WIth that information, then we can perhaps form a more compelling campaign. One that doesn't blame people, but rather understands them and offers an opportunity for them to change.

People don't change under force - and the major conversation-holders are forceful and wrong-making of the people they intend to sway.

For example, I don't see PETA changing their ways that definitely do not work for addressing the main population out there. When PETA compared the slaughter of cows to a decapitated human on a billboard the same week the incident had occurred, I knew that PETA was not connected with the reality of people. PETA has no intention in changing the way things are: their intention is to cause controversy. This works for the choir they have been preaching to, but not the majority of people who are essentially good people.

Until that connection between the conversation and reality happens, people will continue to not listen and do the opposite: close off from the conversation, especially if organizations like PETA continue their antics. Compassion for these people is prerequisite to them listening, and words of hate are simply childish.

Joe, help us understand why you chose the puppy you did. Let us use the insights to make a change in the way we talk about dogs.

[Cookie]

It is always better to buy from a breeder....most responsible breeders don't let their dogs wind up in rescue, so you have no idea what is behind the dog...temperament or health wise.
Pity, tho, that the Bidens didn't contact the parent club for the breed before making their decision.

[Dog's friend]

A dog is NOT a used car. A dog is a living creature, and every dog deserves a better life than the horrible conditions found in puppy mills. Today, thousands of dogs and cats will be killed in shelters across this country for the crime of being homeless. Shame on Mr. Biden for talking about "change" and resorting to the same old ways of choosing a pet --and lining the pockets of breeders who have little or no concern about the welfare of the lives in their care -- while thousands die.

[carole]

I too am upset that Biden chose to buy a puppy from a mill yes a mill with 100 dogs living in igloos breeding. Why couldn't he do the compassionate thing and get a puppy from the shelter there are 10,000 German Shepherds on Petfinder. It sends a really bad message when people here in L.A. are working so hard to get rid of these puppy stores that are supplied by the very puppy mills where he bought his dog. Shame on you Vice President Biden.

[Jacqueline]

See if he gets that 100% rating from the Humane Society ever again, Ms. Alexander!! How arrogant and tone deaf.

[pam]

IT is not the fault of responsible breeders that there are dogs who end up in horrific conditions; that is the result of uneducated people adults and children; additionally it is ridiculous to read the comments of HSUS and PETA whose own stated goals are to eliminate pets from the face of this earth; go read THEIR OWN WORDS on their website; buying a dog from a responsible breeder should be a choice of any and all of us; I applaud VPE Biden's for making a choice that reflects his personal taste and not making a choice that is politically correct in the correct mania of blaming responsible breeders for the irresponsible actions of others; at least Biden knows what he is getting; if Obama adopts a dog from a shelter he does not know what he is getting who is going to stand behind any health or behavior issues; my question is if his children are allergic to dog hair, why would he even consider adding a dog to his family; and why now and not before? Just my thoughts...

[LauraE.]

Also, This breeder was suspended from the AKC last year for false record keeping... Guess when you breed that many, it does get rather hard to keep up with them who's who.....

[Robert Laughing]

Safe to buy from a 'registered' breeder?' What a crock....so many AKC documents were PROVEN to be fraudulent - just a 'legalized and sanitized' puppy mill. Ever notice how many demented species are out there, FROM 'recognized' breeders? Some of these useless pus-headed breeders should be utilized for training purposes - in the pit bull ring.

[Kip]

We're a Shepherd family ourselves, and I think our Vice President just showed himself to be nothing less than brilliant! The world's most perfect breed. :)

In all seriousness, I think Vice President Biden has every right to get a purebred puppy from a reputable breeder. In our house we've got two German Shepherd Dogs. One was the pick of the litter, is all German, from championship lines, with an impeccable pedigree. The other is from the Westside German Shepherd rescue, abandoned by a family when they decide their landscaping was too precious for dogs. We love them both to death, and wouldn't trade either for anything. The next Shepherd, when we lose one of these family members, will be a puppy from a reputable breeder. The one after that will be an adult from a rescue. That's how we do it.

[M J T]

Excuse me, I haven't read any details about Biden's breeder. This seems very much a knee jerk response and throwing the baby out with the bath water. Animal issues are sensitive. But didn't California just choose to modify the future standards of chicken farms, NOT ban them altogether? Puppy mills are evil as are the practices of those "raising" foie gras, veal, and so much more. BUT many, and likely most of you, wouldn't bat an eye when you go to the market and choose free range organic eggs. There are humane and responsible dog breeders that can be found with proper research and due diligence. Yes there are way too many pets who are in need of homes. But don't blacklist those who give countless time and love for a particular breed, even including their efforts involving rescue and adoption!

[Julie M]

I believe this poll does not make a distinction between responsible breeders vs. irresponsible breeders. If Biden had bought this dog from a breeder who tests their dogs clear of genetic problems, who breeds to create a dog who is physically and temperamentally capable of doing the work the GSD was born to do, and who screens their puppy buyers, I doubt there would be so many people on Biden's case.

However, he bought from a breeder who breeds hundreds of puppies a year - far more than can be responsibly bred or tracked as a caring breeder tracks the puppies they produce. He supported an industry that leads to the pain and suffering of thousands of dogs and the support of the "buy on impulse, neglect at leisure" crowd, who don't give a 15 year commitment the thought they would to a house or car, items that they tend to own for shorter periods of time.

I support rescue and responsible breeders. It takes time and effort to find out what a responsible breeder is and who is worthy of that title. It's not enough to lump everyone who breeds dogs into one category.

[The voice of reason]

The question I would have for PETA and proponents of their point of view is this: Is the pure bread dog less worthy of a good home? Is a his soul inherently worth less because he came in to existence from what may be viewed as an unethical practice?

Seriously, think about it.

Is the offspring of an oppressed person worth less than the child of Ingrid Newkirk?

[Moore]

Why is this a relevant issue at all? I find it completely ridiculous that Joe Biden's choice to buy a dog from a breeder has become a headline. He should not be expected to make a political statement by selecting a dog from a pound. Given the many upcoming challenges that the vice president and president are bound to face (i.e. the crumbling world economy, war, etc) criticisms of their personal choices (dogs, schools for children, etc) should be the last on the list of items to analyze.
You should consider this his way of stimulating the economy.

[susan]

You'd think after all the discussion that's been going on with the president-elect's future dog that he's have this figured out. Now what he needs to do is get a shelter dog to keep the German Shepherd company. It won't make it totally up to all the animal rights people but it's a step in the right direction.

[Bryan]

I have adopted many dogs in my life and they are the best. You don't have to spend a bunch of money to find a best friend. It is also a great strain on the economy to have to put down over 3 million dogs and cats every day. The future Vice President should know better. I'm sorry I voted for him.

[Dee]

What makes you think this is a puppy mill? Saying it's a puppy mill means that the police K9's are also coming from puppy mills. After all, it was a K9 officer who helped locate this breeder. Get your facts instead of assuming. Might give you more credibility.

[maggie]

Some people must have a lot of control issues to be upset about another person's choices. A dog in rescue is there for a reason. Either someone let their dog run loose to have an unplanned litter of mutts, the animal had behavior and temperament issues, or the owner of the animal wanted rid of it for whatever reason. Getting a well bred, well socialized animal from a respected breeder would be my first choice for a 10 to 15 year family member. I help rehome many animals in my area. Rehoming unwanted animals is my choice and I manage to rehome animals without needing to be in charge of other people's choices. The fact that anyone can be "upset" about someone else's choices in getting a pet makes me feel they should seriously consider a program of recovery.

[Steve Wallis]

The LA Times should do more research before they promote the anti-dog ownership views of PETA and HSUS, two groups that have supported known terrorist groups and even currently employ persons convicted of animal terrorism? Who's side is the Times on?

Do you want your children and grandchildren to have the opportunity to own and care for a pet dog or cat? If so, realize your quotes are furthering the goals of two organizations that have stated their long term goal is "one generation and out". Don't you understand what that means? Do your homework.

[Darlene Petralia]

This poll is difficult to answer. Both rescuing and responsible breeding are good things. A responsible breeder is not "commercial". Believe me, as a hobby breeder, it costs more than it brings in. (Ask the IRS why they hate to see hobby breeders claiming income and expenses.) I checked "who cares?" only because (I DO care) but I also believe in the rights of Americans to choose their own dog.

[Tom]

Car shelters? We're comparing living, feeling creatures to hunks of metal?

I harbor no ill will to the shepherd, or the Biden family loving he/she - the issue is beyond that. The issue is the message it sends.

PETA just wants to cause controversy? do you know the importance of being able to pull the media? PETA "ruffles some feathers" and keeps the issues in the media thus making it IMPOSSIBLE for people to forget that animal rights is out there, not willing to be ignored for anything.

Sure, their tactics are uncompromising and unfiltered - but when faced with slavery, abuse, and mass murder of sentient beings I think it's necessary to "Take the gloves off".

The problem is so many people think PETA should be worried about how people "feel". if your "feelings" are hurt by the ads they run, or campaigns they do. They don't have the luxury (or the desire) to waste their time taking your feelings into account when billions of animals are killed each year without fail.

That is more important than any one (or 100,000) person feeling upset over a nude campaign, or a beheading billboard.

[DJ]

Why is the fact that there are dogs in shelters that have been put there by irresponsible owners be a reason that anyone should not buy a purebred, registered dog from a breeder? Surely every single American has the RIGHT to get his or her pet from wherever they wish. Or has this right been taken away sometime and I missed it?

I guess if everyone is now only allowed to buy a dog from a shelter, and never from a responsible breeder, then we can just simply say goodbye to the breeds we all admire and love because all that will be left in the world are mutts.

Maybe take this one step further.... maybe no HUMANS should have any more children until all the orphaned children around the world have been adopted.

I have had shelter dogs and cats and I've had purebreds. I have loved every one of them equally as individuals. What gives ANYONE the right to tell ME where to buy my next dog from? Which by the way will be from a resgistered breeder as I prefer to buy a dog that has health guarantees and whose parents have been tested and screened for health issues.

[dog lover]

Why do news organizations rely on quotes for Humane Society of the United States? They are not a humane organization. They are animal rightists, just like PETA. Their expressed point of view is highly biased towards the "animal rights" goals.

HSUS is politically savvy enough to recognize that extreme positions do not create allies. Their political strategy is to take small steps and make small, progressive inroads towards their eventual goal: HSUS wants a world where everyone is vegan and nobody can own pets.

Readers, if you think donations to HSUS go to humanely care for animals, think again! HSUS has a horrible track record for taking care of living animals (witness their Katrina non-efforts). They kill far more animals than they save. Put your money to the local animal shelter if that's what you want to do.

What is so horrible about making a conscientious decision to buy a quality dog from a reputable breeder? There are NOT tons of purebreds in aminal shelters. Purebreds that come in usually have major problems and if they don't, they are quickly placed.

As for someone's personal choice? Not everyone wants to deal with the behavioral and/or health issues of pound puppies. I can't imagine someone with the contact level of VP would want to deal with a dog who comes with temperament issues. And what business of anyone's is it anyways where he decided to get his dog.

That HSUS (or anyone) would even think about objecting to Biden's choice of dog speaks the real agenda, loudly and clearly.

Please stop using HSUS as a source of information on animal reporting. That's not news, it's propaganda.

[pork chop]

YOU GO JOE.. makes me proud to have voted for you..Authors of articles like this still cannot resist the temptation to quote two of the biggest frauds ever perpetuated on mankind .. PETA and its "group in a better suit".. The H$U$.. PETA KILLS 97% of the animals given to them for 'shelter'.. while the H$U$ take your money ( certainly not mine) and runs NO shelters.. Why should ey have anything to say? When Wayne Pacelle head of the H$U$ "adopts" a shelter dog I will eat a vegan. I know they taste bad.. but it would be worth it.
Congratulations Joe.. and thanks for supporting a breeder.

[Timothy]

I care that Biden adopted from a breeder. He is sending the message that it's okay to buy from a breeder while healthy, homeless animals are killed in shelters. My vote went to BIden because he scored the highest according to the HSUS on animal issues. How can someone who cares about animal issues get their puppy from a breeder? It's irresponsible and I didn't vote for irresponsibility. This country has had irresponsibility for a long time now. I voted for Hope...for Change!

[Wendy Murphy]

The suffering of animals is an absolute. It doesn't matter where they came from, or how they are likely to behave. The question is "DO THEY SUFFER" and the answer is YES. Shame on Joe Biden. (He knows better). I am sorry I voted for him.

[Lisa]

Susan,
Biden is under no mandate whatsoever to "make things up to the the animal rights whackos". You people are beyond belief. This is a free country and Biden has the right to purchase a dog from wherever he sees fit. If you don't want to purchase a dog from a breeder, that is YOUR right. You people remind me of a 6 year old child screaming "Mommy, that little boy isn't doing what I told him to do".

[Lisa]

Where do you folks get your numbers from? Even your own misguided source, the HSUS, does not state "billions" of animals are killed every year nor are millions killed every day. It states four million animals are killed in shelters a YEAR. Many of these animals were brought there by their owners for the express purpose of euthanasia as it is less expensive (by far) for an owner to put to sleep an old, infirm pet at the shelter than at a vet. Get some education and then PULEASE go away.

[Susan]

Thank goodness Mr. Biden bought a purebred dog, and hopefully it was from a reputable breeder. People need to see the real statistics on the number of animals in shelters, not rely on PETA propoganda. A large percentage of the dogs in shelters are NOT suitable for adoption, whether it is due to health, temperament, or neglect/abuse from their previous owners. Sad for them, but it is time to penalize the owners who dump these animals. Breeders should have to take back dogs purchased from them - reputable breeders do this already. Maybe then commercial breeders and negligent backyard breeders will think twice about producing disposable pets.

[nopuppymills]

It is up to him if he chooses to go to a breeder, yes that is his right. BUT HE DIDN'T RESEARCH THE BREEDER!

If he did his homework, he would have found out he is getting a puppy mill dog.

It is HIS responsibility to send a message to the people. He unfortunately did not choose to do the "right" thing. If he did, he would have adopted a dog from a shelter, and by doing so, many many people who did vote for him would have followed suit. He had the opportunity to spread the word to "adopt don't shop", but he didn't.

Shame on him. He should make puppy mills illegal, period.

[Carol]

I believe that in this country it is still everyone's right to choose where they purchase their pets. Some choose shelters or rescues, some choose breeders. This is why we live in America...remember?

[Susan]

To those that posted "according to the humane society"- do your homework. Do you believe everything you read or see on TV? Good G*d, just research where your so called facts are coming from.

How many dog are IMPORTED into this country for sale by shelters and rescue groups??? Yes, rescue groups SELL dogs. Money exchanged=a sale. Shelters SELL dogs. Breeders SELL dogs.

This is still a somewhat free county and no one has the right to tell anyone WHERE they have to buy anything.

This couple made a choice to buy their dog where they wanted and not based on HSUS or PETA propaganda. Good for them!

[Zara Heartwood]

Having fostered, rehabilitated and placed nearly 300 dogs through rescue, both shelter dogs and owner surrenders, since 1998, I feel strongly that Mr. Biden made the right choice to get his puppy from a respected breeder. Dogs in rescue (and from animal shelters) are special and they need a controlled environment where they will continue to get the extra attention and guidance that will enable them to be good pets. The Bidens and the staff that assisted them in their selection were right in choosing a German Shepherd (the breed the Bidens have had before), right in their choice of a registered purebred with a documented background, right in picking a breeder who is well known for producing K9 dogs with excellent health, longevity and temperament. Congratulations to the Bidens on a job well done! Zara

[Ed]

" Saying it's a puppy mill means that the police K9's are also coming from puppy mills"

Yes, there are deceptive police officials buying police dogs from PUPPY MILLS

Some get kickbacks from the mill owner!

[Julie Arisco]

Bravo for Mr. Biden exercising his right to CHOOSE where he gets his GSD puppy! If he wants a purebred GSD from German lines, from a breeder of working lines, BRAVO for him! Bravo to all who support our right to CHOOSE where we get our dogs. EVERY person is not an irresponsible owner, much as HSUS and PETA and other AR-ists and those who would legislate our purebred dogs out of exisitence would have you believe.

[Luke Thomas]

Miami-Dade FL spent $10 MILLION dollars on their dog pound in 2007. In fact, most medium to large counties spend over a million yearly on dog pound services killing collectively approximately 30 MILLION perfectly healthy dogs, cats, puppies and kittens. Dog pound costs come from county budgets-the same that pays Law enforcement-all of them are undergoing budget crunches, and even laying off law enforcement officers. The homeless animals keep on coming in--more and more and more every year. County budgets affect state spending, which affects Federal spending. I don't know about you, but $10 million dollars a year for a single county is a lot of chinks. What Joe Biden has done was encourage Americans to patronize breeders-just what we need more animals to make more homeless pets. Buy a dog, you kill a dog. At tax payers' expense. Shame on you Joe.

And did you know puppy mills are all over America? Upteen million puppy mills everywhere. These animals ARE abused. Purebreds have genetic disorders. All of them do. They tend to be weaker than mixed breeds.

Bottom line it was, considering the state of the economy, a very foolish and irresponsible choice to patronize a breeder-for a politician is a role model, and he just patronized and encouraged waste, and signed the death warrant to countless homeless shelter animals. Many of them will die by gas chamber-and sometimes it takes several gassings before they choke to death on their own vomit.

I lost total respect for Joe Biden when he patronized a breeder, and I tend to think now it will be another 4 years of Bush and he has very poor judgment. POOR DOGS that will die in the gas chamber-Joe just signed their death warrants. POOR DOGS!!!

[E. W. Parks]

I'm glad to see all you butinskies aligned with the terrorist organization PETA in rushing to condemn Joe Biden. I saw the dog, his mother, and his littermates on TV. (I hope I'm right that it's a male dog!) The pup looked clear-eyed, happy, and friendly. The other dogs looked happy and healthy too—beautiful coats, etc.

Get a life folks. Joe Biden doesn't come around criticizing YOUR choice of dogs or cats or rabbits.

[Donna Watkins]

Calling the breeder of this dog a puppy mill is verging on libel, especially since there IS no legal definition of the term. I went to her website and saw quality dogs, with health certifications, good pedigrees, and working titles. How do you guarantee those things with a rescue dog?

Most people who want a dog want a puppy. Most dogs in shelters are NOT puppies. The problem is a dog retention problem, not a dog overpopulation problem.

I am glad that VP Biden has ignored the ranting of well-meaning but painfully ignorant animal rights fantatics.

[Jessica]

When there are so many dogs in the shelters it is frustrating that adopting is not a primary concern - look at the problems when 101 Dalmatians hit the big screen. Americans, sadly, follow and being in the spotlight when everyone is watching like Biden is be a leader. This is going to cause problems of people who don't realize the work of Shepherds they are an active working breed and of course this is just money in the bank for the breeder now that she can abuse it since there will be a demand for her dogs.

How terrible!

[Timothy]

I'm getting so sick of these comments that "This is America and people can do what they want!" No they can't!!!! We have laws that protect certain groups. I mean, sure, we have the freedom to kill someone if we want to, but we also have laws that make the killer answer for the crime. And, yes, you have the freedom to molest a child if you want to. Yes, this is America, home of the brave and free, right? Whatever! And, no, I don't want anyone molesting my child just because they have the freedom to do so. You people out there telling others to do research need to do your own research. So, to bring the ship in, did Biden have to right to get his dog from a breeder? Sure, he did...duh! Was it the compassionate, educated thing to do? No!! He didn't even research the breeder to find out where the dog came from. And I don't care the reason why people are relinquishing their dogs to shelters. The point is that shelters have no choice but to kill dogs because there are not enough good homes for them, and breeders are just adding to the problem. That's the bottom line. So, you all can stuff your America the Beautiful and Free comments...it's BS and it just shows how selfish and self-centered you are!

[Donna Watkins]

Also, as regards Obaba stating he would prefer a shelter dog? He has since indicated they would most likely be going to a breeder- the only place to get a *puppy* whose appearance, temperament, and many health aspects are a sure thing and not a crap shoot. I have nothing against mixed breed or shelter dogs- I have one- but to treat this incident like Joe Biden was caught at a KKK meeting or taking bribes or patronizing an underage prostitute is ABSURD.

Have all of you forgotten that the beauty of America is the freedom of choice, opinion, and speech? Joe Biden is exercising his.

[TiaLee]

PETA is a group of folks that would like to see domesticated animals of ALL sorts (including farm animals as well as pets) done away with forever. They are nut jobs and will tell the puclic what they think they want to hear.

Most animals killed in shelters each year-by a wide margin-are feral cats. Most dogs are there for good reason.Why would anyone-especially someone with small children-want to take on a dog that someone else has already messed up? Sure, it's not the dog's fault. It's also not his fault if he eats the neighbor kid for lunch.

Not to mention that most of the "purebred" dogs in shelters COME from puppy mills, so the public is supposed to clean up their mess? Purebred dogs are not interchangeable. They are all individuals, but knowing the breed can help knowing what you are getting in general. Puppy mills don't breed with health and temperament in mind.

Don't kid yourselves. Yes, it takes some effort to find a RESPONSIBLE breeder. If PETA and HSUS have their way, RESPONSIBLE breeders will vanish along with puppy mills.

Please don't be guilted into a bad decision for your family by adopting a shelter dog. If this is what you truly want, by all means-go for it! But if what you really want is a healthy pet who isn't overly aggressive or shy, who will grow up to be what you expected from your research on the breed, who comes with a lifetime "helpline" from someone who has perhaps devoted 30-40 years or more, to the breed, then take the time to find a quality breeder. That dog will be with you for a long time.

And please, don't imagine for one second that that dog you "save" at the shelter won't immediately be replaced with another there. It will. Because the true puppy millers have you coming and going. Even if you are PC to "adopting" a shelter dog instead of buying from a pet shop-guess what? They both came from the same place after all. Only when there is no market for poorly bred animals will the puppy millers cease. They breed for profit and profit alone. You probably won't ever even know where you're pet shop or shelter dog was bred and whether or not it's parent's were sibling with a common genetic defect. But you'll think it's better, because PETA says so.

[Kate Karp]

Hmmm, Joe the Breeder-Buyer. Seriously, it's really no one's business except for the adoptive human as to where a dog comes from, but when you're in the public eye--and a future vice president who is said to have a "stellar record," as one paper wrote, as well--the idea of buying a puppy from a breeder makes you wonder--did we really vote for change? What else will Obama's team not do?
But to get back to the issue (animals are no more metaphors than they are cars, as one of the posters aptly said), the idea that buying from a breeder will eliminate potential problems is ridiculous. Dogs are overbred at breeders, and often, the problems are exacerbated. We don't know who this "responsible breeder" is; what also troubles me is that Pennsylvania is one of the puppy-mill capitals of the country. Furthermore, if people are so satisfied with purebreds, why are there so many purebred rescue groups in existence? In my own state, I couldn't count the number of shepherds and shepherd rescues online. In shelters, too, waiting for adoption or euthanasia. It's heartbreaking.
As for not knowing where the animal came from, that's too much information unless you plan to show the dog. A visit to a vet will give you all the info you need for your dog (or cat) to be happy and comfortable. That's what it's really about.
Can't resist one more metaphor: I was (and continue to be) solid in my support of Obama and his choices, and was delighted when he became elected. I knew, however, that building the idea of someone up leads to disillusionment, and I wondered where my first letdown would come from. Now, I know.

[Kate Woodviolet]

EVERY time a topic like this comes up there is this phalanx of people who show up to promote the same lies about the Humane Society of the United States.

Go to the HSUS website (hsus.org) and you will learn that they have never stated that they are a shelter. They rescue animals, they work for better treatment of animals -- and it's all right there for anyone to see. This persistent lie that they somehow deceive people into supporting them by pretending to be a shelter is blatant libel, and since it erupts EVERY time HSUS' name is mentioned, and it's always stated exactly the same way, it's pretty obvious that groups who have goals antithetical to those of HSUS leap on every opportunity to spread this lie. Who would have goals antithetical to HSUS? Puppy mill owners, backyard breeders, people who look at dogs (and other animals) as just a way to turn a quick buck.

I do not work for HSUS but I am proud to support them and I will be here EVERY TIME you people show up to spread your same old lies about a group that does nothing but try to save animals from cruelty.

[Angela]

I think it's his right to buy a purebred puppy from a breeder.
He will know the puppy's heritage, health issues, plus he hopefully, has a reputable Breeder who will be available to answer any questions he may have. He will also be able to see the Parent(s) and the rest of the litter.
You know what you're getting from a reputable breeder.
I congratulate him!!!!

[NANCI LITTLE]

The article referred to in this letter titled 'Pets also losing homes due to recession" can be viewed at:
http://tinyurl.com/45brwg

An open letter to Vice President Elect Biden:

I am unbelievably saddened by your decision to feed the bank account of a dog breeder who is adding to the overpopulation of dogs in this country, instead of adopting a wonderful and deserving dog in need of a home! German Shepherd Rescues all over this country are overflowing with wonderful dogs.

Important facts: Picking out a puppy this young is all about speculation to what he will become. Will his ears go up as they should, will his hips and elbows be free of dysplasia which makes a many Shepherds life painful and much shorter than it should have been? Will his temperament be strong and confident or will he grow up with separation anxiety or noise sensitivity? Will he be good with the grandchildren!? Will he be friendly and safe around other animals? There are no guaranteed answers with any puppy that young.. and no amount of training will change the genetic personality, disposition and temperament that he was born with. Training can control and hide some problems but they are never eliminated. It would be sad if that widely photographed puppy turns out to have hip dysplasia, or be afraid of thunder, or be defensive around small children!

I am very surprised that you did not listen to what every expert would have told you. Choosing a young dog but NOT a baby, especially with these big breeds, is a much better idea. Hips and elbows can be xrayed at 9 months old if that is a concern; temperament can be well tested by then; training can be started if not already begun; conformation is evident. If the dog, where ever he has come from, loves children as a juvenile he will love them his whole life. If he is solid and sensible at that young age, you have the start of a long relationship with a wonderful dog. Much if not all of the chewing and housebreaking are behind him already, just by virtue of age.

These facts are very important even if you are determined to buy from a breeder, but why in the world ARE you doing that? Especially a breeder that is said to breed HUNDREDS OF PUPPIES? Does your common sense tell you she might not be interested in quality?

All of the above facts also apply when adopting a young SHELTER dog! Which brings us back to the article at the beginning of this 'book'. Breeders keep pumping out those cute puppies but the statistics say that 40 percent of those cute puppies have lost their first home before one year of age! Maybe you did not confer with experts regarding rescue vs. purchase, but that shows a problem in your judgment. You obviously did not take into account the example you have now set for the rest of the uninformed public! You did not take into account that there are tens of thousands of purebred dogs that are homeless through no fault of their own. You did not take into account the 5 MILLION pets put to death every year. You did not take into account that the out-of-control companion animal overpopulation is costing cities and counties all over America millions of dollars every year just to administer euthanasia to those millions of dogs. You have told us to remember that we are in a recession and people have lost their homes to foreclosure. It may get worse, much worse, before it gets better. Why didn't YOU remember that in YOUR situation? Why did you not take the opportunity to set the right example, by letting the rescue groups all over this country search for and find the perfect dog for your family? Maybe a lovely young German Shepherd that would have been perfect for your family, that truly IS homeless due to foreclosure, will run out of time in a shelter tomorrow! What a heartwarming story THAT would have been. The thousands of crying children who cannot quite understand why they were forced to turn their backs on their beloved pets.. would have looked up to your example and found hope that their pet might also have found a forever family. You would have encouraged any adults looking for a pet to look no farther than their local shelter!

You should be ashamed, if for nothing else, your lack of mercy. I am ashamed FOR you. I voted Obama/Biden and would again considering the only other option! That does not mean I approve of your judgment in this particular situation. All of us in rescue were SO hopeful and are now SO disappointed that we may never feel the same about the Obama/Biden administration again! My days of volunteering for any politician are over.

Mr. Vice President Elect.. What an opportunity to do the right thing you have just wasted!

[Jennifer]

All dogs are born somewhere. When we stop allowing dogs to be born, and stop supporting people who bring the healthiest puppies possible into this world through genetic and health screening, who breed dogs with sound temperments, who raise puppies with good nutrition and stable environments in mind, we stop having dogs.

When we stop supporting breeders who offer life long support to their puppies and owners (including taking them back and helping find new homes if necessary), we are left to support those puppy producers who fill shelters and sell dogs to homes where they are tied on a chain all day. Yes, it will take a while to stop dogs born in puppy mills and sold in pet stores (which by the way are more prevalant in shelters than dogs who come from breeders who have contracts requiring dogs be returned to them rather than turned over to shelters), but not every dog breeder is this mass puppy producer that some people like to paint them.

Hopefully someday we will be able to stop indiscriminate breeding and selling... and hopefully by then there will still be people responsibly breeding... because I want dogs in my life. I want dogs in my future kids' lives, and i want dogs in my future grandkids lives.
If we don't allow sound breeding practices, if we spay and neuter EVERY animal... where are puppies going to come from ten, twenty, fifty years down the line?
If we stop the birth of dogs, where do our pets come from?
I agree whole heartedly with the poster above who referred to the issue, not as an overpopulation issue, but a retention issue. So many people are quick to purchase an animal from a source that does not do proper checks into homes (such as stores), and realize five weeks, five months, five years later that for whatever reason, they no longer want/canthave/need the dog. It's that dog that ends up in a shelter. Not the dog that always has a breeder willing to welcome it 'back home'
Sure... it's the individual's choice to 'not breed or buy while other dogs die'... but what happens in a few decades when the last neutered dog dies and there aren't any LEFT to breed or buy?

I'm not sure where people get the idea that one can not support both animal welfare and responsible dog ownership and breeding. At least Biden has the ability to balance the two.