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‘First Dog’ Heightens Awareness of Adoption Issues

Posted April 14, 2009

This week, a little puppy found himself at the center of a big controversy.

The newest member of the Obama family, a Portuguese water dog named Bo, has been in the media’s glare. And not all of the press has been good. Some stories, such as this one from NBC, are questioning whether Bo is a true “rescue dog.” Rather than adopt from a shelter or breed-specific rescue organization as many had hoped they would, the Obamas got Bo from a breeder -- after his first owner had returned him.

I’m reminded of that old saying about how even bad publicity is good publicity. Bo is sparking a national debate…and that’s a wonderful thing. What could be better for raising awareness in this country about the important issues that surround dog ownership?

With this in mind, I’d like to take a moment and point out what the Obamas did right.

First, they researched different breeds extensively rather than rashly going out and getting the first dog that struck their fancy. Too often, people decide that a certain type of dog is cute and rush into getting one regardless of whether it suits their lifestyle. This then leads to dogs being returned or -- even worse -- abandoned when owners discover that the dog isn’t a good fit for them.

Second, I have heard Michelle Obama talk about how a dog is a big responsibility. She apparently emphasized this to her young daughters during their discussions about owning a puppy. I wish all prospective dog owners would take the time to recognize that getting a dog is a choice that changes your life for a dozen years or more -- and I wish all prospective owners with children would take the opportunity to teach responsibility and empathy.

Third, Bo came from a responsible breeder, not a pet shop supplied by a puppy mill. Sadly, many prospective owners do not realize that some shops, Internet sellers and others mislead buyers by offering dogs that come from mills or have been stolen. It’s critical that if you’re looking for a dog you do your homework. It’s always a good idea to visit the seller’s premises and make sure the dogs are treated humanely.

I hope that if you are considering getting a dog, you follow the Obamas’ lead in these three areas. I also hope that you first consider shelters and breed-specific rescue groups. Approximately 25 percent of dogs in shelters are purebreds. And millions of perfectly friendly, adorable dogs are euthanized every year because there aren’t enough good homes to go around. 

Learn more about dog ownership and adoption.  

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