Purebreds can be found at shelters

Dear Paw’s Corner: Although I liked most of your answer to the person who correctly wrote that breeding should not be encouraged, it left the impression that only “mutts” are available at shelters. The truth is that about 25 percent of all dogs at shelters are purebreds, and they are readily available at nearly any shelter.

We have two Chihuahua/Pomeranians from a shelter. Although they are regularly advertised for around $400 in the newspaper here, mine cost only $26 each for an adoption fee. I do volunteer transport for shelters, and last month transported a full blood “Sheltie,” along with her AKC papers, from a shelter to an adoptive home.

The trainer at the local shelter has three purebreds, the same breed advertised at $900 for pet-quality dogs in the paper, but all three were adopted from shelters in the area. Please tell people that these are available too. — Dan S., Spokane Valley, Wash.

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Dear Dan: Thanks! I didn’t mention that there are indeed pet-quality purebreds at shelters. Of course, if a potential owner is dead-set on a particular breed, he or she may have to search several shelters or wait for the right dog to come along.

The stories behind each of these dogs can be heartbreaking, of course. In many cases, the original owners just couldn’t keep the dog. This was the case a few years ago when Dalmatian puppies became wildly popular — leading to a huge number of this breed being abandoned at shelters when families found that Dalmatians are not always the easiest pets to manage.

So, if you’re searching for a new companion, be sure to check the local shelters. The perfect dog may be waiting for you.