calipetconnect

🛡️

Choose a Responsible Breeder

A responsible breeder cares about the health, well-being, and future of their puppies and kittens. Use these tools and tips to protect yourself and your future furry family member.

Puppy and kitten 🤍 🤍

🚩 RED FLAGS Warning Signs

Walk away. These are major warning signs.

✘ Refuses a video call or phone call
✘ Slow to respond — delays 24+ hrs, or only calls at odd hours
✘ Won't let you meet the puppy or kitten, or see where they live
✘ No health records or vaccination proof
✘ Says "papers later"
✘ Always has multiple breeds and kittens available
✘ Price is unbelievably low
✘ Avoids answering your questions
⚠️ Trust your gut.

If something feels off, it probably is.

✅ GREEN FLAGS Good Signs

Signs of a responsible and ethical breeder.

✔ Health testing done on parents
✔ Parents can be seen in person
✔ Puppies and kittens are raised in a clean, safe home
✔ Puppies and kittens are at least 8 weeks old
✔ Written health guarantee and contract
✔ Breeder answers all your questions
✔ Provides lifetime support
🛡️ A responsible breeder

cares about their puppies and kittens for life.

⚠️ YELLOW FLAGS Proceed Carefully

Not always a deal-breaker, but ask more questions.

● Meeting in a public place only
● Limited photos or no videos
● No references or reviews
● Excuses for not showing the parents
● Waiting on health test results
● Deposit required before answering your questions
● Communication is slow or inconsistent
🔍 Use caution and dig deeper.

Ask more questions and verify everything.

📋 RESPONSIBLE BREEDER CHECKLIST

Print before you visit a breeder

1 Before Contacting the Breeder

2 Before Sending Any Money

3 Health & Documentation

4 During Your Visit

5 Before Paying

6 Walk Away If…

🐾 What Good Looks Like

A caring breeder provides a healthy, happy start.

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Clean, safe environment

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Mom looks healthy and well cared for

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Puppies and kittens are socialized and stimulated

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Fresh food and clean water

🚫 What Bad Looks Like

Poor conditions can lead to sick and unhappy puppies and kittens.

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Dirty, unsafe conditions

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Puppies/kittens look unhealthy, sick, or lethargic

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Too many litters at once

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Unsanitary water and food bowls

📄 See a purchase agreement sample View a sample bill of sale / purchase agreement. ›
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Good Breeders Make Happy Pets

Choose responsibly — because every pet deserves a loving home. 💜

Next Step → Prepare for Bringing Your Pet Home