I bought 2 poodles a couple of years ago. We went out from LA to Bakersfield to look at and buy a miniature chocolate poodle. The puppy looked good and we wanted to buy him. Elizabeth mentioned another dog that would be a good companion for the male. She showed us a champagne toy female poodle. After a brief discussion with my girlfriend we said yes. Now we brought enough cash for the one, but did not anticipate a second purchase. We would be more than happy to write a check, but this nor a credit card was acceptable to her. I guess it's hard to track cash. This was on a Saturday and there was no way for us to pull out through ATMs the money needed, we already maxed out for the day. So we had to go back to LA and ask friends for the money. Now it's back to Bakersfield that Sunday to pick up the puppies.
On the way back to Bakersfield to get the two dogs, Elizabeth calls us to let us know that she has another chocolate miniature that she was going to retire from her breeding stock. The dog was 5 years old, male and we could have him for nothing. Just provide a good loving home. When we arrived to her house, she informed us that the dog was now going to be $300.00. There goes the good loving home deal. She changed the deal in less than an hour.
We were never allowed to see where the dogs are kept nor the kennels. After having the dogs for a couple months we noticed that they remained very skittish. After seeking many opinions from vets and animal shelters, they said this type of character and behavior is typical of a dog that is left in a cage all day. Both dogs were also very very skinny. On the male you could see his spine. I believe in keeping a dog trim, but these dogs looked like they were without food.
An interesting note, just a couple of weeks ago we were in Balboa Island and saw a couple with a fawn colored miniature poodle. After a few minutes we found out their dog was purchased from Elizabeth too. Our stories were identical. CASH only, and their dog is very skittish as well. They have had the dog for over a year and the dog is still the same way. They take the dog out to visit other people to help with this skittishness. Elizabeth's own dog, Coco, is very friendly and out going. Probably did not spend time with the ones she sells.
In my opinion I believe she does a good job at breeding poodles. Would I buy another one there? NO
I believe she runs a puppy mill disguised as an upscale breeder.
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