Before you purchase a Cirneco dell'Etna, please do two things. First, find out everything you can about these wonderful dogs and make sure they are right for YOU. A Cirneco needs a place in your heart and home for the next 15 years. Read our web site. Call our Club officers or any Cirneco owners you know. Check out articles in dog lovers' magazines and information on the Internet. Then, when you are sure you want to adopt a Cirneco, find a good breeder.
There is a lot of information available on the characteristics of good breeders. A great summary is available online from The Humane Society of the United States: How_to_find_a_good_dog_breeder
Basically, a good breeder should:
- carefully breed to reinforce good characteristics of the breed and the parents, and to avoid issues with health or conformance.
- take loving care of the dogs in his charge.
- match your personality and situation to the personality of the dog he recommends to you.
- offer you guarantees, including your new dog's registration, veterinary records, and a promise to take the dog back if at any time you find that you can no longer care for it.
- require guarantees from you, that you are willing and able to see to the health and happiness of your new dog.
These points are covered in detail in the Breeders Code of Ethics required by CdECA as a condition of being listed on our site.
When you visit a breeder, don't be in a rush. Make a list of your questions. Take a checklist such as the Humane Society's with you. Talk to the breeder, look around his establishment, and meet several dogs. Make sure you feel that the breeder has the best interests of his dogs at heart. Answer his questions - he's trying to help match you with the best dog for you! If you are not comfortable with the breeder, the situation, or the animals, try another breeder.
Don't expect to leave with a dog, particularly if you want a puppy. Good breeders do not always have litters of puppies immediately available for adoption. They are more likely to save your information and match you with a dog from their next litter, which might be several months away. Be patient. Even if you fell in love with an adult dog you've just met, both you and the breeder may need a few days to prepare before you bring your new friend home. In any case, when you know you've done your research, you can look forward to your new Cirneco with confidence and excitement!
|
