Knowledge is power. Capisce?
Resources
Straight talk for families bringing home a new pet and for breeders who want to do it right. No fluff, no funny business.
For families
Bringing home a new family member
The basics every new dog or cat owner should know.
Dog or cat? Choosing the right pet
- Be honest about your time, space and budget.
- Research the breedās energy, size, grooming and health.
- Think about allergies, kids and other pets at home.
Questions to ask a breeder
- Can I meet the mother, and the father if possible?
- What vaccinations, vet checks and deworming were done?
- Are there health tests for the parents? Can I see them?
- What happens if I canāt keep the pet later?
Get your home ready
- Bed, crate, bowls, food the breeder used, leash or litter box.
- Pet-proof cables, plants, chemicals and small objects.
- Pick a vet before day one.
The first weeks
- Book a vet visit in the first week.
- Keep the same food at first, then change slowly.
- Follow the vaccination schedule and ask about microchipping.
The real cost
- Food, vet care, vaccines, grooming and supplies add up every month.
- Plan for emergencies or look into pet insurance.
- Training classes are money well spent.
Avoid scams
- Never pay before you meet the pet, in person or on live video.
- No gift cards, crypto, Zelle, Cash App or wire transfers.
- Read our Safety Tips before paying anything.
For breeders
Run a program people trust
Good listings get more serious buyers. Hereās how.
Write a great listing
- Clear title: breed, sex and age.
- Tell the petās personality, not just the specs.
- Fill in health, vaccinations and pedigree. Empty fields scare buyers.
Photos that sell
- Natural light, eye level, clean background.
- Show the face, the full body and the pet playing.
- A short video builds a lot of trust.
Have your records ready
- Vet records, vaccines and deworming dates.
- Parentsā health tests and registration papers.
- A simple written sales agreement.
Screen your buyers
- Ask about their home, schedule and experience.
- Offer a video call or a visit.
- Be wary of overpayment and āshipping agentā offers.
Trusted sources
Helpful organizations
Independent sources for health, breeds and pedigrees. Pet Mafia Club is not affiliated with them.