One in Five Pedigree Dogs Is Discarded Within Two Years

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A survey conducted by the RSPCA found that one in five pedigree puppies purchased from a breeder was given up before his or her second birthday. Not only did many of these puppies end up in already crowded animal shelters, but 36 percent had health problems and 3 percent died.

Virtually any breed can be found at a shelter or through a breed-specific rescue group. So there’s no excuse for patronising breeders, who profit from contributing to the animal overpopulation crisis. When you’re ready to add a new a new member to your family, please remember the thousands of animals who are euthanised in animal shelters every year, and consider opening your home to one – or two!