The Chronicle Herald did an article on Gail Benoit and the dangers of not knowing where your puppy is coming from (puppy mills). Or instead of buying a puppy, help out one who is in rescue by adopting.
You can read it HERE.
Some key points?
“…Kijiji strongly advises against anyone meeting in a parking lot to buy a dog.”
Never ever meet someone in a parking lot to buy a puppy or dog! Always go to the home and see where the parents and puppies are kept. If someone isn’t willing to show you their setup then keep looking.
“People may contact Kijiji through a flagging system to notify it of ads that may be suspect.”
How can unsuspecting people be saved the heartbreak and misery? Education, and people flagging suspicious posts on Kijiji. Puppy millers can’t sell what’s not advertised. They may make up a pretty ad with lies and if you email and none of what’s in the ad is true and they sound like a puppy miller – report the ad. You may save so many people some heartbreak that don’t know what to look for, that would meet someone in a parking lot.
“A transaction was attempted this month near Middleton, off Highway 101, he said. Someone suspicious of the seller bailed out and contacted Saunders, he said Wednesday.”
Gail Benoit and others just like her are still out there. Still trying to make a quick buck, still trying to sell puppies. Be aware! Find a responsible breeder who is willing to show you their location, willing to show you the parents, willing to give you buyer references, does all health testing pertaining to the breed, contracts signed for spay/neuter and health, and a breeder who is willing to give you support and guidance through the whole life of the dog. Or just adopt, there are so many loving dogs big and small, mix and purebred out there waiting for a home to call their own.
