Foxy, in Memoriam

After a few auctions, the auctioneer got to know us - and when an old brood bitch or a "worthless" puppy was put on the block - he would immediately look at us. We'd usually buy them for under twenty dollars. Often in the case of the brood bitches they would be in bad shape. We'd nurse them back to health, and find them a good home for their remaining years.

Foxy was the very first elder bitch we purchased. The kennel where she was purchased was so awful that at one point, I had to go out to the car and sit inside and hide for a while the tears running helplessly down my face. We both knew if we bawled in public the other puppy mill owners at the auction would be "on to us" and we had no idea how far they might go.

Foxy was a pale buff Pomeranian bitch. I never got her papers (they were mostly likely used to register litters of puppies born later from unregistered bitches - a common trick) so I never knew for sure how old she was.

The first time I set Foxy down on green grass - she looked down under her feet - terrified, and shifted from foot to foot. She had never been on the ground before. She had spent her whole life standing on wire cage bottoms. Her little feet were horribly deformed as a result. She always walked carefully, as if her feet still hurt, and never bounced or played.

Foxy wasn't housebroken, and was a bit incontinent, probably from bearing litter after litter of puppies. Foxy liked to stay close to one of us - and so we just cleaned up her little dribbles as they occurred. Foxy is the only animal I've ever allowed to make a mess in the house like that - but I couldn't bear to discipline her - and she probably couldn't have helped it anyway.

She was so grateful for any show of affection. She didn't yap or fuss with the other dogs or ever make any kind of trouble. She was just so happy to be inside, or out in the yard - on the grass - and for people who would pet her, hold her, and give her treats.

Foxy was not with us very long. But we have found memories of her sweet disposition and loving heart.

The best thing you could do if you want a dog is give an unwanted dog from the Shelter or a Rescue association a good home.

Some pet shops do work with the local shelters and rescues to place dogs and puppies. Be very sure, however, that this is the situation. I'm sorry to say this, but pet shop employees, some working on commission, can and will lie about the origin of a puppy in order to make a sale.

It is only realistic to acknowledge that not everyone is able to do that in every situation. Some people may not have the knowledge or ability to cope with an adult dog who may bring their own baggage from abuse or abandonment into the situation. Some people don't have the personality to cope with just any dog, but desire a dog of a particular pure breed that has at least somewhat predictable needs as far as affection, exercise, and so on.

You can find a responsible breeder by visiting local dog shows and talking to those showing breeds you are interested in. Most breeders are more than happy to talk to you about their dogs. Some will advertise on the Internet, in dog magazines, or in local newspapers. Always ask to visit the kennel (even if you might not actually be able to do so). If a breeder suddenly gets evasive and does not want you to see their facility - forget it. A responsible breeder will be proud of their clean and well appointed kennel (or home) and will welcome your visit.

In fact, most responsible breeders will be examining you as a potential puppy owner just as closely as you will be examining them. They may ask you to sign an agreement stating that the puppy will receive proper vet care, be spayed or neutered if not suitable for breeding, and other conditions such as allowing the breeder to visit your home to make sure the puppy is happy and well cared for!