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» There are an
estimated 3,000
puppies anc kit-
tens born every
minute in North

America

In last week's article, | at-
tempted to educate pet owners on
the normal sequence of events that
takes place when a female dog
gives birth to pups.

A few readers may have
misinterpreted this to mean that
everyone should start raising
puppies.

In fact nothing could be further
from the truth. In this article
(which possibly should have
preceded last week's) | will discuss
the “pet population explosion”
and some factors to consider
before you raise pups.

It is currently estimated that
there are more than 3,000 puppies
and kittens born every minute in
North America.

Unfortunately almost half may
go homeless and a large number of
them eventually have to be
hirmanely destroyed by animal
contral officers.

Raising dogs is best to be re-

stricted to purebred dogs in the
hands of knowledgeable breeders.
That is not to say cross-breeds do
not make good pets, in fact they
are usually excellent, but there
may not be as great a demand for
them.

Female dogs should not be bred
until they are at least one and one-
half to two years of age. This
means they will come into estrus
(in heat) at least one or two times
before breeding. This is the critical
time to avoid ony contact with
male dogs to prevent an un-
planned pregnancy.

Before a pet owner decides to
breed a dog he should consider the
following:

e Will he be able to find good
quality homes for all the puppies?

Can he afford the time commit-
ment to loak after the mother and
pups for the eight weeks they will

Can he afford costs tha may be
insured if there are complications
at birth, a caesarean section is
needed, or the pups become ill and
require medical treatrnent shortly
after birth?

eCan he afford the cost of vacci-
nations, deworming and feeding
the puppies?

There is an old wives tale that
breeding the dog will make ita
“better pet”. This has been proven
false and in fact spayed or neu-
tered dogs tend to be healthier as
they get older.

[In most cases, Spaving or neu-
tering is the best choice for pet
owners. However, accidents do
happen even with the best of
breeders, so be informed and be
prepared.

Dr. Michael Orser is a member of
the B.C. Veterinary Medical Associa-
tion, He will answer your questions
on pet health in iis colann as space
permits. Write to him c/a The News,
22326 119th Avenue Maple Ridge,
V2X 223.