Re Questions
by MyToyBulldogs (no login)
Here is a thoughtful reply from Walt in answer to the "Questions" I received and posted early in the week, that I though I would share.... it's from the breeder's point of view.... Thanks Walt great answers.
Terri
MyToyBulldogs
Subject: Questions
In a message dated 12/17/2007 7:03:02 A.M. Eastern Standard Time,

How many years have you been breeding?
2. Can I see mom and dad before I decide to buy?
3. What is your genetic health guarantee cover?
4. Do you offer a health guarantee?
5. Do you have a website?
6. Do you show your dogs and if so how often?
7. I have never owned a bulldog, can you answer my questions after I buy the puppy?
8. What is the price range of your puppies?
9. I currently live in a town house that has stairs, can my dog get up those steps?
10. I have owned other breeds of dogs though this puppy will be the only one in the house will it be okay as the only pet or should I consider getting a pair?
11. Do you offer a money back guarantee if I do not like my puppy?
12. When is the best time to contact you and how do you prefer to be contacted?

That's a thoughtful set of questions.But I have a problem with the guarantees Kim asks about. There are a number of things a breeder can guarantee, but many things Kim asks for are asking the breeder to indemnify her are impossible to guarantee i.e. "...a money back guarantee if I do not like my puppy..." ...a health guarantee?..." "...a genetic health guarantee..." the puppy can climb stairs? etc. When one buys a puppy, one also must assume responsibility for unpredictable things. Buying a puppy must be a leap in faith to some extent. I don't blame Kim for minimizing her odds for finding problems but buying any puppy should not be like buying a pair of shoes where you try them out before you decide to buy them. The purchase of a puppy is a leap in faith for the breeder as well that the purchaser will provide adequate care and decent treatment for the pup for it's lifetime. It's important that the new owner is committed to learning about the breed and it's care. It's equally important that the buyer has the intelligence to care for your pup. Too many dogs are lost due to the ignorance of owners, completely out of the control of the breeder/seller.
From the face of Kim's questions, she would not qualify to buy one of my precious Bulldog pups, much less get to the in house interview stage.
Walt