Problem dogs -
or problem owners? During lockdown many people sought canine companionship to get through isolation - but how many owners actually found the right dog to suit them? Kieranne Grimshaw met Kari Lees, animal behaviourist at the JSPCA, to seek some advice on buying a puppy
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ari has worked at the Animals’ Shelter since 2011, helping dogs with behavioural problems. She stressed the importance of finding the right puppy for a successful partnership. ‘Since the start of the pandemic, there’s been a definite increase in people looking to buy a puppy,’ Kari said. ‘This affected the price, with some Cockapoos being sold for £3,000. I recommend going through the Kennel Club. They have the Kennel Club Assured Breeders Scheme – breeders who are not just in it for the money.’ ‘The main concern is that with lockdown everyone was at home a lot, then they’ll suddenly go back to work, and the dog will be without company.
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We’ve bred dogs to be social companions, so they really need us. They have to be taught from young that it’s OK to be on their own - but not for too long. ‘When choosing a puppy, it’s important to consider your own lifestyle and select a breed that will fit in with this. Think about how much free time you’ll have for exercise too.’ Holidays are also an important factor, according to Kari: ‘Do you have friends to look after your dog when you’re away, or will you need to consider a boarding establishment?’ Like dogs, we are all different and some people may not enjoy daily dog grooming. ‘You can consider buying a hypoallergenic breed or one that requires little grooming,’ Kari suggested.
For your pet to enjoy a long and healthy life, there are inevitable costs involved. ‘Veterinary bills, annual insurance and vaccinations are all important costs to factor in,’ Kari said, and she also has some vital and sound advice if you’re looking to buy a canine friend, especially at a time when there’s rising demand for puppies. ‘People also need to be really cautious and look out for puppy farms. So many people are now taking advantage of how much puppies are in demand in the UK. There are some really unscrupulous breeders around. ‘It is the law in the UK that you must see the mother of the puppies with the puppies.
