• Did you know that most ACDs in animal shelters or rescue are between 7 months and two years old, they have little or no training and lots of energy?  They did not have a breeder who made a life-time commitment to the lives they created.

• The number one reason we see ACD's come into rescue is a combination of
  irresponsible breeding, coupled with unrealistic owners ill prepared for this high energy, high intelligence and demanding breed. This is a wonderful, and unique canine animal. They are not for everyone. They require a commitment of time and effort that many owners are unprepared or incapable of providing. 

• Recipe for homelessness: Many are products of irresponsible breeders. Ever seen ads that read something like: Blue Heeler puppies ready to go. 5, 6, 7 weeks old docked tails, dew claws removed. Papers out of champion lines call xxxxxxxxxxxx?

  • What is wrong with this? First, during the weeks between weaning and eight weeks (minimum recommended age for leaving the litter) the puppies learn bite control, social skills with the litter that will help make them a better working and pet dog.  Second, cattle dogs need their tails. Any one docking tails does not know the breed, its development and history. They have not seen how a working or agility cattle dog uses their tail to balance and control their sharp turns.

  • There are also breeders banned for cruelty and dishonesty. They make up their own papers and sell puppies "with papers"  Yes, even though banned for life by AKC, they still cranks out puppies, and find plenty of gullible buyers.

  • Responsible breeders have different policies on taking a pup back, however, they all consider a pup a lifetime commitment. Most require that if at anytime in the future you must dispose of the dog, that they be contacted first. ACD Breed rescue requires that if we place one of our rescues in a home, the adopter will sign a contract, obligating them to turn that dog back to rescue if they have to give it up, for any reason, at anytime. It's a lifetime commitment to the dog. What is a "Reputable Breeder?" http://www.inch.com/~dogs/breeders.html

• The Australian Cattle Dog Club of America provides a breeder referral service.

Animal Trustees of Austin are actively in assisting people who feel they may have to give-up their pets, offer house-manner classes for unruly pets, and low cost spay and neuter clinics.