If you’re considering getting a new dog, you might have come across the opportunity to become a Guardian Family for a dog breeder. This unique arrangement allows you to bring a new pet into your family without the initial cost. However, being a Guardian Family is an option usually available to experienced and suitable families. But what exactly does it mean to be a Guardian Family, and should you consider becoming one?
Understanding the Role of a Guardian Family
A Guardian or Guardian Family is a person or household that agrees to keep and care for a breeder’s dog. This arrangement is formalized through a legal contract that comes with certain obligations. Failing to fulfill these obligations could result in the dog breeder taking back the pet you have come to love. Therefore, it is crucial to involve a guardianship attorney before entering into a Guardianship contract. They can ensure that the agreement is fair and practical in the long run.
Dog breeders choose Guardian Families to ensure that their breeding dogs enjoy happy and healthy lives as beloved pets in loving households. This is a more humane alternative to puppy farms, which often neglect the care and attention necessary for a dog’s well-being.
The Distinction Between “Owner” and “Guardian”
One key distinction between a Guardian Family and a traditional owner is that the dog does not belong to the Guardian Family. The dog still remains the property of the dog breeder. As a Guardian, you sign a contract to care for the dog on behalf of the breeder. Only when the terms of the contract have been fulfilled does ownership of the dog pass to the Guardian.
Typically, the Guardian Family becomes the dog’s new owner after a certain number of litters have been produced or after the dog has reached a certain age where breeding is no longer possible. Until then, the Guardian Family is responsible for fulfilling the duties outlined in the contract.
Responsibilities of a Dog Guardian
The specific requirements of a Guardianship contract can vary, but they generally include the following responsibilities:
- Ensuring the dog is well-trained and in good health. The contract should specify who is responsible for paying medical expenses.
- Allowing the dog to be available for breeding purposes. This may involve being within a reasonable distance from the breeder’s location. Male breeding dogs may be away from your home for extended periods, while female dogs might stay with the breeder for several weeks or more. Although there may be certain restrictions or limitations, the Guardian Family typically retains access to their pet during this time.
- Permitting the dog to be bred for a certain number of litters or a specific period. Female breeding dogs usually retire at around four years old, while males retire at approximately six years old.
- It is common for Guardianship contracts to involve a deposit that the Guardian must pay to receive the dog. This deposit is usually refunded after the dog has produced its first litter.
The Benefits of Being a Dog Guardian
One of the main benefits of becoming a dog Guardian is the potential reduction in the cost of owning a pet. By agreeing to be a Guardian Family, you typically won’t have to purchase the dog outright, although an initial deposit might be required. Once the contract obligations are fulfilled, the dog becomes yours to keep. This allows you to have a dog of a breed that might otherwise be financially out of reach. Depending on the agreement with the breeder, you might also receive assistance with medical expenses and other costs. However, it’s important to note that in most cases, medical expenses and insurance remain the responsibility of the Guardian Family, while the dog breeder covers breeding-related expenses.
Additionally, dog breeders generally select the best puppies from a litter for breeding purposes. This means that the dog you care for and ultimately own through a Guardianship program will likely exhibit signs of good health and temperament.
Frequently Asked Questions
Q: Can anyone become a Guardian Family?
A: Guardian Families are usually carefully selected by dog breeders based on their experience and suitability. However, it’s always worth inquiring with breeders to see if they have any Guardian opportunities available.
Q: How long does a Guardianship contract last?
A: The duration of a Guardianship contract can vary depending on the terms agreed upon by the breeder and the Guardian Family. It is important to thoroughly review and understand the contract before entering into the agreement.
Q: What happens if I can no longer fulfill my responsibilities as a Guardian?
A: If unforeseen circumstances arise and you can no longer fulfill your responsibilities as a Guardian, it is crucial to communicate with the dog breeder as soon as possible. They will work with you to find a suitable solution for the dog’s well-being.
Q: Can a Guardian Family adopt a dog from a different breeder?
A: Guardian Families typically commit to a specific breeder and their breeding program. Adopting a dog from a different breeder may not align with the terms of the Guardianship contract.
Conclusion
Becoming a Guardian Family for a dog breeder is an exceptional opportunity to bring a new pet into your home without the initial cost. By entering into a Guardianship contract, you play a vital role in ensuring the well-being of a breeding dog while enjoying the benefits of pet ownership. However, it is essential to fully understand the responsibilities and obligations outlined in the contract before making a decision. If you’re interested in becoming a Guardian Family, reach out to reputable dog breeders, such as Pawsoha, and explore the possibilities of this unique arrangement.