Recently, we were introduced to a celebrity in Mumbai through a friend. She’s an actor who was looking to get a pet dog. Our friend successfully persuaded her to consider adopting a dog instead of buying one and asked if we could speak with her.
Be A Petizen is currently based in Bangalore, but the idea of persuading a celebrity to opt for adoption over purchasing and the potential ripple effect it could create seemed like too significant of an opportunity to pass up. So, we initiated a conversation with her.
She was in search of two puppies – one for herself and one for her elderly parents. Her main ‘requirement’ was a small sized breed. She informed us that she had already spoken to two breeders who had what she was looking for. We carefully listened to her, and then we explained all the issues associated with backyard breeders in India, including the unscientific, unhygienic, unethical, and even cruel methods they employ to breed puppies. We elaborated on how these practices not only affect her as a “customer” but also devastate the lives of the dogs trapped in this ruthless industry.
She listened, understood, and was willing to consider adopting dogs. Consequently, we began reaching out to rescuers, animal shelters, and rescue organizations in Mumbai. We shared her profile and lifestyle details with them, and they posed a set of questions for us to ask her:
For her parents:
1) Given the age of her parents, adopting an adult dog a more advisable option. Are they open to adopting an adult dog?
2) Who will be the primary caretaker of the dog – domestic staff or her parents?
3) In case of an emergency, will her parents be able to take the dog to the vet?
For her:
1) Considering her frequent travel for shoots, is she open to adopting an adult dog that can handle being alone for extended periods?
2) Who will be with the dog for most of the day?
3) Who will care for the dog when she travels?
These questions were designed not to deter her but to encourage her to make an informed decision, anticipate potential challenges, and realistically assess her capabilities based on her lifestyle and future plans.
As for the questions posed by the breeder? We can reasonably guess that it was only about the choice of breed and the expected delivery date!
Though we did find a few dogs that could have been a suitable fit, she didn’t find the breeds appealing. And so, we had to convey to her that no other dogs were recommended by rescuers and organizations. Ultimately, she chose to purchase puppies from the breeder. However, this story is not just about her decision to buy instead of adopting. It’s about the aftermath of her decision.
A few weeks later, we received a distressing call from her. She reported that both puppies were unwell, with one in critical condition. She had spent the majority of the last two weeks shuttling to and from the vet’s clinic. The vet revealed that the “medical records” shared by these backyard breeders were usually fraudulent and inaccurate.
As for the breeder? He wasn’t answering her calls.
So, the next time you contemplate buying a puppy, remember this story. If someone with substantial resources and a wide network can fall victim to deception – why not you?
When you adopt a dog, you are matched with a companion that’s the right fit for you. This ensures a smoother transition for both you and the dog and doesn’t necessitate drastic changes to your lifestyle. It might be a puppy, a young adult, or a senior dog – the match is based on compatibility.
Be A Petizen collaborates with reputable individual rescuers and animal shelters. They have comprehensive processes and protocols in place. They do right by the dog and by you.
Oh, and post-adoption? They remain lifelong friends. No ghosting. No vanishing acts.
Adopt, don’t buy.
