The Labrador retriever once again is the most popular breed in the United States, a position it has held since 1991 as of Jan. 15, 2007 announced by the American Kennel Club. This top spot for 16 years has added to the necessity of rescue. It is estimated 2 out of every 5 Labradors will be rehomed in it's lifetime, and one producing female can produce 12-15 puppies that will find rescue or the ultimate demise in a kill shelter. Add that to her producing puppies over their lifetime and the numbers are too heartbreaking to count. Remember also, registry does
not indicate quality of breeding, and with 'backyard breeders' it is often nothing more than a piece of paper for the new owner that may go one to breed thinking the AKC registry ensures quality of the litter. Go to www.akc.org/reg/topdogsbycity.cfm to see large cities and what breeds top registry numbers submitted. The numbers don't lie, and our local shelters tell the true tale of the plight of any popular breed - that is why we say, "Adopt, Don't Shop!"
Pictures courtesy of the AKC media department.
