The Fifth Key: Locating Reliable Sources
Where your pet comes from can shape the relationship from day one.
Once you've identified the type of pet that fits your life, the next step is finding a reliable, responsible source. The conditions a pet was raised in, the care it received early in life, and the health and temperament of its parents can all have a lasting impact on the animal you bring home.
Taking the time to evaluate your source carefully — rather than simply going with the most convenient option — can help you avoid unexpected health or behavior issues and set the relationship up for long-term success.
Understanding your options
There are four main sources from which people typically obtain a pet. Each has its own advantages and considerations, and it's worth understanding what to look for — and what to watch out for — with each one.
Breeders
If you're looking for a purebred or registered animal, a responsible breeder is often the best path. Look for breeders who raise their animals in a home environment, conduct health testing for genetic conditions, are active in their breed community, and are genuinely invested in the well-being of every animal they produce — not just the sale.
Shelters and Rescues
Shelters and rescues vary widely in what they offer, how they operate, and the level of support they provide to adopters. Do your research before committing. A good organization will be transparent about an animal's history and temperament, work to match pets with the right homes, and offer some form of post-adoption support.
Pet Stores and Pet Shops
In many areas, pet stores are no longer permitted to sell animals, or do so in very limited ways. When they do, the animals are often sourced from large-scale commercial operations where conditions and oversight vary significantly. This source warrants extra caution and thorough research.
The General Public
Pets obtained from private individuals can range from excellent to problematic. The quality, background, and temperament of the animal will depend entirely on the situation. Ask plenty of questions, meet the animal in its current environment if possible, and take the time to understand its background and history. The more you know about the pet before bringing it home, the better prepared you'll be to give it the care it needs.
Questions to ask any potential source
Regardless of where you're looking, these questions will help you evaluate whether a source is truly responsible.
- Do the animals appear healthy, well-socialized, and well cared for?
- What are the living conditions like — are they clean, appropriate, and humane?
- If a breeder, do they health test their animals and are they active in their breed community or association?
- If you can meet the parents, what are their personalities and temperaments like?
- Does the source offer any support to new owners after the pet comes home?
- Are they genuinely focused on matching the right pet with the right owner — or just completing a transaction?
- If something prevents you from keeping the pet in the future, will they help rehome it or take it back?
- Do they ask questions of you as well — a sign that they care where their animals are going?
Why this key matters
A responsible source doesn't just provide a pet — it provides a foundation. Animals that are well-bred or well-cared-for from the start tend to be healthier, better socialized, and easier to live with. Taking the time to find the right source is one of the most practical things you can do to set your new relationship up for success from the very beginning.
This resource is part of It's DogGone Awesome's Six Keys to a Successful Pet Relationship — a program designed to help people make thoughtful, informed decisions before bringing a pet home.