Hello all!
I have spent some time going through the stickies, familiarizing myself with OFA clearances, and taking a look at different breeders in my area (Utah).
I have some concerns about the breeders I was considering and just wanted to make sure I am on the right track here.
The first breeder I was initially interested in was Red Canyon Retrievers.
This is actually just the first one I found through a google search. As I started doing my research into what I should be looking for, I felt the fact that they dont let people visit the puppies was a red flag (their reasoning is that the mothers get defensive of their new puppies, which also seems like a red flag). Of their Sires, only a couple have OFA clearances.
Next, I moved onto Windmill Farms Golden Retrievers, this looked promising. However, they do not have heart clearances listed (maybe this is something I could call and ask) but my real concern here is that these are specifically bred for hunting. I am not a hunter and fear I would not be able to meet the needs of this pro hunting dog (maybe Im too worried about this for nothing? Would love to hear someone else's thoughts).
Next, I looked at Golden Havoc Kennels Specifially at the Luna x Gaston littler. Luna's info (listed here: Advanced Search | Orthopedic Foundation for Animals | Columbia, MO). As I understand it, she has the 'Normal - Practioner' listed under her heart clearance. Someone told me on here that is not recommended. The Sire, Gaston (info here: Pedigree: CH Golden Havoc Awe And Inspire) looks good? I really am not sure, but from what I understand he looks good. My other issue is that these puppies are $3500. Now, I seriously do not mind paying a premium for good, quality bred puppies, but I just want to make sure I am not getting scammed. One thing that came up as a flag for me in their health guarantee/contract was this:
1. Purchaser has seventy-two (72) hours from the date of purchase in which to have a veterinarian examine the pup for health problems. If Seller does not hear from Purchaser within that period, it will be assumed that the Purchaser is satisfied and that the pup is in good health. If there is a problem that cannot be rectified, Purchaser may return the puppy to the Seller on the day following the examination, with a veterinarian’s statement, for a full refund of the purchase price of the pup. After 72 hours, Purchaser assumes all responsibility and liability for any genetic or other medical conditions except those described below.
(they then go on to state they cover hip/elbow dysplasia for 26 months, eye disorders for 24 months, and they go on to mention this is all void if I overfeed my puppy, or jog with him before 2 years old)
(For reference their health guarantee/contract info is here: Info)
Lastly, Soaring Goldens they have their health clearances listed on their website, however I couldnt find any info on how to look them up on OFA.
If I could get anyones thoughts that would be great. OR if anyone has recommendations for the Utah area that would great too. Utah/Surrounding states is also fine. I dont mind making the drive to CO, Nevada, ID, etc. if I need to (Although admitedly something closer to me would be ideal)
Thanks for everyones help! I am so sorry this is such a long post, but I just want to make sure I choose a responsible, quality breeder, and dont bring a golden into this world with serious health concerns.
Thank you again!
I have spent some time going through the stickies, familiarizing myself with OFA clearances, and taking a look at different breeders in my area (Utah).
I have some concerns about the breeders I was considering and just wanted to make sure I am on the right track here.
The first breeder I was initially interested in was Red Canyon Retrievers.
This is actually just the first one I found through a google search. As I started doing my research into what I should be looking for, I felt the fact that they dont let people visit the puppies was a red flag (their reasoning is that the mothers get defensive of their new puppies, which also seems like a red flag). Of their Sires, only a couple have OFA clearances.
Next, I moved onto Windmill Farms Golden Retrievers, this looked promising. However, they do not have heart clearances listed (maybe this is something I could call and ask) but my real concern here is that these are specifically bred for hunting. I am not a hunter and fear I would not be able to meet the needs of this pro hunting dog (maybe Im too worried about this for nothing? Would love to hear someone else's thoughts).
Next, I looked at Golden Havoc Kennels Specifially at the Luna x Gaston littler. Luna's info (listed here: Advanced Search | Orthopedic Foundation for Animals | Columbia, MO). As I understand it, she has the 'Normal - Practioner' listed under her heart clearance. Someone told me on here that is not recommended. The Sire, Gaston (info here: Pedigree: CH Golden Havoc Awe And Inspire) looks good? I really am not sure, but from what I understand he looks good. My other issue is that these puppies are $3500. Now, I seriously do not mind paying a premium for good, quality bred puppies, but I just want to make sure I am not getting scammed. One thing that came up as a flag for me in their health guarantee/contract was this:
1. Purchaser has seventy-two (72) hours from the date of purchase in which to have a veterinarian examine the pup for health problems. If Seller does not hear from Purchaser within that period, it will be assumed that the Purchaser is satisfied and that the pup is in good health. If there is a problem that cannot be rectified, Purchaser may return the puppy to the Seller on the day following the examination, with a veterinarian’s statement, for a full refund of the purchase price of the pup. After 72 hours, Purchaser assumes all responsibility and liability for any genetic or other medical conditions except those described below.
(they then go on to state they cover hip/elbow dysplasia for 26 months, eye disorders for 24 months, and they go on to mention this is all void if I overfeed my puppy, or jog with him before 2 years old)
(For reference their health guarantee/contract info is here: Info)
Lastly, Soaring Goldens they have their health clearances listed on their website, however I couldnt find any info on how to look them up on OFA.
If I could get anyones thoughts that would be great. OR if anyone has recommendations for the Utah area that would great too. Utah/Surrounding states is also fine. I dont mind making the drive to CO, Nevada, ID, etc. if I need to (Although admitedly something closer to me would be ideal)
Thanks for everyones help! I am so sorry this is such a long post, but I just want to make sure I choose a responsible, quality breeder, and dont bring a golden into this world with serious health concerns.
Thank you again!