Animal shelter adoption and reputable breeders

In short: Those who take in an animal can adopt from a shelter or buy from a reputable breeder. Animals must never come from dubious online offers or the boot of a car.

In more detail: Illegal puppy trading is a big problem. The animals are often sick, too young and separated from their mother.

In detail

• Shelter: Many animals are waiting for a home; staff advise on a suitable choice.
• Adoption fee: Covers vaccination, chip and costs; it is not a purchase price.
• Reputable breeder: Shows the parent animals, the housing, vaccination and health records and asks you questions.
• Warning signs: Very low prices, handover at meeting points, several breeds, pressure to buy quickly.
• Minimum age: Puppies may be handed over at eight weeks at the earliest.
• Contract: Written purchase contract with documentation.
• Choice of breed: Suitable for home, daily life and experience (haustier-anschaffen-verantwortung-und-kosten).