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After
seeing the very cute puppies on the webcam many people will
want to own one.
The National Canine Defence League urge you to carefully consider
the expense and commitment if you are going to make this decision.
Owning a dog can often
be 13-year commitment, and is not a decision to be taking
lightly. Owning a puppy can be very costly and the following
expenses need to be taken into consideration.
Costs include:
- Weekly food bill
- Bedding, toys and other equipment
- Veterinary care
- Insurance
- Kennel fees
- Training fees
- Grooming fees
- Damage to home and possessions
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| Cute - but they get
bigger and need feeding. |
Once you have considered
the costs you need to think about what sort of puppy you are
looking for. Rescue organisations such as the NCDL often have
unwanted litters of puppies that are looking for loving homes.
Consider giving these a call first.
Avoid buying a puppy from
a pet shop or newspaper advertisement. It is possible they
may be from a breeder who has put profit before the puppy's
welfare, and your pet could have problems in the future. When
you have made your choice of breed, and researched it thoroughly,
take note of the points on the following pages when visiting
breeders and rehoming centres.
Once you have made a
decision it is wise to contact either your local rescue centre
or the breed club secretary of the breed you have chosen.
Breed Club details can be obtained through the Kennel
Club,
telephone 0870 6066750.
Be prepared to put your name on a waiting
list for a litter to be born.
Next:
A well bred puppy is worth waiting for
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