Ok, so this topic has nothing to do with personal development...or so it would seem at first glance.
Explain to me why people believe that they have to get an AKC registered dog? Or even a purebred?
It seems to me that we have once again been taken in by a masterful marketing scheme. A marketing scheme that says there is more value in an AKC registered dog. That you get a better dog if you get an AKC registered dog.
In the interest of busting beliefs that we've taken on unconsciously (wait, this is sounding like personal development), let's take a look at these two perceptions:
1) There is more value in an AKC registered dog.
Unless you are going to SHOW your dog, there is no added value by having an AKC registered dog. Boasting value maybe "Hey, I have a registered whatever". When you think about it, the AKC is almost an MLM scheme. Buy an AKC dog from a breeder, breed it, then the pups sell for more cause they're AKC. Recursive. Hmmm....
2) You get a better dog if it's AKC registered.
NOT TRUE. Story after story tells of the fabulous family dogs that are adopted from shelters and rescues. And in some cases, the breeding of dogs has actually brought out weaknesses in the purebred variety.
FACT: 25-30% of dogs surrendered to shelters are PUREBREDS.
FACT: Only 25% of dogs added to familes are adopted from shelters or purebreds.
We've been marketed to and talked into spending ALOT of money on a purebred dog. For what?
In the end, aren't you looking for a dog that looks a certain way and will make a great family member? So what do you REALLY care if it's a purebred, AKC-registered or not? Will those papers guarantee that your dog loves your kids, has great manners, is a wonderful contribution to your family?
Don't take my word for it - go to http://www.petfinders.com, put in the breed of your choice, and your zipcode and hit 'Submit'. It will bring up a list of all the dogs in your area of that breed. You'll be surprised...
I invite you to take a look at your own reasons for purchasing an expensive, purebred or AKC registered dog. Look at the alternatives, like getting a nice dog of your type from the shelter or rescue. You'll save money and SAVE A LIFE. Whatever you decide, let it be a CONSCIOUS choice.
Hey, some of us still choose to buy high-end luxury cars for the name: Mercedes, Audi, BMW, Lexus, etc. And some of us don't. :D
Ok, I'm done ranting...
In Spirit,
Lauren
P.S. Did you know that in the US, we still euthanize (nice way to say KILL) 4-5 MILLION dogs & cats a YEAR in our animal shelters? Contrary to perception, these are not unadoptable, sick or old dogs and cats. They are cute, healthy dogs, cats, puppies, & kittens. Not enough space for all these animals. PLEASE spay/neuter your pets! And adopt from shelters and rescues!
P.P.S. - I'm sure this email will offend some people, particularly the AKC and breeders. But hey, it's my opinion and I'm entitled to it. I'm also an ADVOCATE for making CONSCIOUS choices, in all areas of our lives.