Pay for a Dog?

Greg and I were new to purchasing a dog. In fact, we were somewhat against it. Why pay for a dog when there are so many in shelters who need a good home? That had always been our attitude. That’s how we ended up with Buster (and previous dogs).

We had a sort of reverse elitism and we realize at this point that we were wrong. Now, we understand the value of great breeding programs and techniques… as well as the benefits of getting a rescue. There is no right or wrong answer. It really does depend on the people and the situation.

I will tell you, when it came to adoption, we tried. We searched and searched. Whether you agree or not, we are an older couple, so we had some specific wants and needs that we were not willing to bend on. For over a year, we went to shelters and checked websites. No luck. We couldn’t find “the one.”

Miniature American Shepherds.

Then a friend recommended looking, just looking, at Mini American Shepherds. We had always been impressed with our friend’s dogs (and especially their temperaments) over the years, so we did our research (via different friends and many many online sources).

According to the AKC Website:

“The Miniature American Shepherd resembles a small Australian Shepherd. True herders in spite of their compact size, Minis are bright, self-motivated workers and endearingly loyal and lively companion dogs who have an affinity for horses.”

“The Miniature American Shepherd is a small size herding dog that originated in the United States. He is slightly longer than tall with bone that is moderate and in proportion to body size and height without extremes. Movement is smooth, easy, and balanced. Exceptional agility combined with strength and stamina allows for working over a variety of terrain. This highly versatile, energetic dog makes an excellent athlete with superior intelligence and a willingness to please those to whom he is devoted. He is both a loyal companion and a biddable worker, which is evident in his watchful expression. The double coat of medium length and coarseness may be solid in color or merled, with or without white and/or tan (copper) markings. He traditionally has a docked or natural bobtail.”

Perfect.

Next step, a breeder’s reputation was extremely important to us because we had heard horror stories about backyard breeders and puppy mills. More research on what makes a quality and responsible breeder. Sure enough, our friend had recommended two of the top Mini folks in the US… and lucky for us they lived right here in Arizona. We finally sucked up and called Patti from Abingtons Minis and Kim from Treasures Minis.

What? No puppies available until when?

Puppies, as it turn out, don’t grow on trees. Because Patti and Kim were/are very conscientious breeders and Minis are so awesome, there was a waiting list.. plus neither of these ladies used their females as revolving baby makers.

OK. Deposit placed. Now we wait (not too long though).

Abingtons AJ - Son of Teacup Treasures Luke and Teacup Treasures Princess Kate of Abington.

Both Patti and Kim worked with us (and with each other) for several months. Not only was it important to us that we find the right breed of dog, I wanted to make sure we found the right actual dog. After all, this pup was going to be a member of our family for the next 10-15 years.

Several litters later, AJ came bouncing in to my lap after playing in the sprinkler. It was as if he said, “I’ve decided, you’re going to my people.” He picked me. It’s like he just knew… and so did I. We bonded right then and there. Patti warned me he appeared to be “high drive.” I didn’t know what that meant. I do now. Wouldn’t change any of it.

Stevie - Abingtons White Wing Dove.

Almost 2 years later, AJ became a proud pappa with his girlfriend Cassie (Abingtons Timeless Treasure) who had been staying with us for a few months. Cassie and AJ got know each other and we waited for her to go in to heat. Cassie lived with us in safety and love through the pregnancy and then went to Patti’s to have the babies. 6 puppies. After Patti was sure they were all healthy, she brought them (and Cassie) back to us for growth and nursing... and more love. The puppies romped around our house and yard until finding their forever homes and people. Patti stopped by once per week to check on them (and us) and give them the appropriate vaccinations etc. Best breeding arrangement EVER! All the puppy breath and cuteness overload, with none of the stress.

We got to meet (and screen) the potential owners and just adored the folks who ended up taking the various offspring. Really awesome people. Made me feel so much better about seeing the puppies go out the door to their new homes. While we were not the “breeder” of any the puppies (I don’t even pretend to understand the science and testing that went in to making the right match… and trust me, AJ had to go through DNA screenings and medical tests before being allowed to couple with Cassie), we got the pleasure of being puppy parents. While I believed we had the right breeder before, after going through this process, I knew for sure we were dealing with a high level of ethics and care.

We ended up keeping a puppy. Miss Stevie… because Greg was/is a big teddy bear and a sucker for a pretty face. He and Stevie connected in the same way that AJ and I had. Awwwww.

We could not be happier to have met the Abingtons and Treasures folks. Our lives have been changed for the better because of them. Patti, especially, is now more that our breeder, she is our friend.