Misc. Resources
The Humane Society of the United States ( aka HSUS) are not the animal advocants you think they are. Understand the deference between animal wellfare and animal rights groups. HumaneWatch , is an organization that keeps an eye on these Super-funded animal rights groups like HSUS and PETA.
American Veterinary Medical Association
The AVMA site has loads of information regarding the health and general welfare for your pets. including downloadable brochures (for personal use only) on a myriad of information for pet owners.
Mid Union Sled Haulers
MID UNION SLED HAULERS, INC. (MUSH) is a non-profit organization located in the Mid-Western U.S.A. dedicated to the promotion of sled dog racing as a fun, family activity. Most MUSH members are located in Michigan, Ohio and Indiana. All races and training sessions are held in various locations throughout the State of Michigan.
Great Article on "-doodles" and other "designer dogs
This is an article written by Jane Anderson of Bluegrace portugese Water Dogs of Australia. Jane is an international show judge. She works full time and mentors people who want to learn how to become great breeders.
BEWARE! of the scam registries
Another popular encounter we see a lot in our area are the scam registries. In Michigan with our close approximation to Canada it is easy to confuse the scam registry Continental Kennel Club with the legit Canadian Kennel Club. Other ones you may run into are the National Kennel Club or the American Pet Registry. The Internationally recognized Clubs are as follows:
- American Kennel Club (AKC) --United States
- United Kennel Club (UKC) --United States
- Canadian Kennel Club (CKC) --Canada
- The Kennel Club (UK) --United Kingdom
- Australian National Kennel Council (ANKC) --Australia
- New Zealand Kennel Club (NZKC) --New Zealand
- Fédération Internationale Cynologique (FCI)--World Canine Organization, Pretty much covers every other country
Pretty much any other registry (aside from the breed specific registries recognized by the above clubs) should be avoided
The reason these non recognized clubs primarily have been springing up is because commercial dog breeder's association members are unhappy now that AKC's got stricter rules, and is requiring a DNA profile in stud dogs that produce 7 or more litters in a lifetime. Many of these breeders are breaking away from AKC and now registering their pups (often found for sale in pet shops nationwide) with other, less restrictive, registries. Regardless of where you get your pup, if your pup is registered with anything other than the above clubs, the chances of your pup being bred by an irresponsible breeder rises dramatically. It's up to you, the potential puppy buyer, to educate yourself and to avoid being part of the puppy mill problem. Do not put your money into the pockets of irresponsible breeders under any circumstances. The only thing they'll feel is getting hit in the wallet.