I have recently had the misfortune of doing business with Rainbow Ridge Kennels. I corresponded with the Strands on several occasions, in regards to a female dog, 16months of age, they had advertised for sale. This dog was being considered for purchase by me, as a breeding bitch. The Strands assured me she was a sound and breedable female and I would receive AKC registration papers, with full breeding rights intact. I have this registration document in my possession. It does show the dog was transferred by the Strands, with full breeding rights and no conditions.
The dog has an impressive pedigree, and I had available to me, pictures of her, showing her conformation, coloring and approximate size. I do not believe the dog I purchased, is the dog I received, November 7th at Delta cargo in Seattle Wa. The dog I received could barely walk, was 25lbs over weight and in obvious distress. The dog I purchased had been seen by a local Fairfield vet, the day prior to transport. I was assured by my veterinarian, this condition would be easily detectable, had she been health checked with a certified, accredited veterinarian. I had a full vet exam done on the dog the following day, revealing severe deformation, pain and infection present, all of which could be attributed to or worsened by, long term disregard and neglect. She was prescribed antibiotics and pain relievers. X-rays latter revealed the cause of this dogs pain and discomfort. Both hind leg kneecaps had completely rotated to the inside of the legs. There are two possible causes for such a condition; genetic or environmental, for example, confinement to a small enclosure for an extended length of time. The recommendations for this dogs conditions, in my veterinarians opinion; total knee replacement, life long pain medications, or euthanasia, under no circumstances, should she be considered as a brood bitch.
I contacted the Strands to discuss the dogs health issues and conditions, and was angrily told this dogs sire and dam had no such genetic defects, nor do her parents lines present such genetic defects. This has been confirmed by the dogs maternal breeder, a respected breeder for many years. I also, having studied this dogs lines, genetics and breeding history and believe this not to be genetic. That leaves the probability, that this severe deformity is a result of environmental causes. Mr. Strand, in the course of this phone conversation, did bring up the fact that the dog had not been out of a kennel in over 5 months Did he mean a crate possibly?
Mr. Strand has made it very clear, they have no intentions to facilitate any resolution or make full restitution. To date, that amount is $900.00. I would not be willing to return the dog to the Strands care, in either case. She will remain with me, until I can find her an appropriate home, with full disclosure of her current and impending health issues.
Those issues being:
#1. Continued disintegration of mobility due to now present arthritis
#2. Likely shortened life span
#3. Life long medical care and pain meds
#4. Definite spaying and optional knee replacement
Each and every fact or accusation I have presented in this letter, can be substantiated by veterinarian medical records, AKC registration applications, three person phone conversations, or emails.
Disreputable breeders have little concern about any consequences or retribution. I believe this is because most sales are made to private parties, people without the resources, time or fortitude for such distasteful dealings. We become attached and fierce protectors of these animals, that have had such an unfair beginning and have experienced the worst of us they count on that. That being said, I believe we have a right and responsibility to make known and hold accountable, those with so little concern for the health and well being of the animals in their care and that at these animals and buyers expense, produce an income through deceit, deception and dishonesty.
Sliteleigh
Roy, Washington
U.S.A.
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