Question: How often do you get purebred animals at the shelter?

Answer: We get in a lot more purebred animals than most people think. Approximately 40% of the dogs that get signed over to CVHS are purebreds. The most common breeds we see are Dalmations, Rottweilers, Cocker Spaniels, and Springer Spaniels. We certainly get in every other kind of breed, also.

Just this past month we took in a three month old Schnauzer puppy. We have seen a major rise in the number of purebred animals over the past few years due to the number that are being bred each day.

People feel that if their animals are AKC (American Kennel Club) registered, then they are worth a lot of money. The word "purebred" only means that they are a specific breed, and not mixed. They really are not worth a lot of money unless they come from excellent bloodlines and are being shown and come from very reputable breeders.

The AKC does not test for temperament, bloodlines, and medical problems. It is quite easy to get AKC papers on a dog. Just this year alone we have taken in approximately 45 dogs with AKC papers. AKC papers do not protect them against homelessness. They are treated exactly the same as mixed breeds.

Approximately 10-15% of the cats that are signed over to CVHS are also purebreds. The most common that we see are Siamese, Persians, and Himalayans.

Solution: We urge you to please spay or neuter your pet regardless of its breed. Overpopulation exists. About 6 million cats and dogs are euthanized due to the awful disease known as pet overpopulation. If you know of someone looking for a purebred animal, have them contact CVHS.