That's terrific news, Shay, thanks so much for sharing it!!!
Alternatively, if you are really set on a purebred animal, contact the AKC (American Kennel Club) or the CKC (Canadian Kennel Club) for dogs - they will be happy to direct you to reputable breeders.
For cats, the CFA (Cat Fanciers Association) is an international organization and they, too, can direct you to reputable breeders.
Not to slam pet stores, but it's never a good idea to buy young animals (like cats & dogs) from such places. First, it is difficult at times to know how those animals were raised until weaned and in what conditions. Second, there are often no guarantees regarding the animal's genetic predisposition to certain diseases and/or their suitability for your family. Third, they are often housed in small spaces and exposed to a variety of diseases for which they may not have been vaccinated.
Myself, though, I have had both purebred and shelter/rescue animals. My purebred Samoyed came to us with a host of "interesting" quirks. He was a beautiful animal, but we didn't adequately research the purchase and bought from a 'backyard' breeder (someone who had both parents, but wasn't in the business of breeding to improve the breed). He died early for a dog his size and had problems that weren't attributable to anything but genetic predisposition.
On the other hand, our first dog, a mixed breed, was one of the best dogs EVER... although our current dog (another mix) is running a close second.
Then the cats... our mixed breed cats have been a never-ending source of love, companionship, fun, and PERSONALITY. Even the 'disadvantaged ones' - like the female with the kitty version of Cerebral Palsy - have lived long, happy lives. Although we've had two Manx, I doubt that either was purebred (one having found us and the other a rescue).
Above all, do your research before purchasing or adopting a pet. Know what sort of home you're able to give a pet, know what the general traits are for different breeds (very important when considering a dog), and know yourself. Really think about why you want that pet and what you expect from it. Whatever you do, do NOT purchase a dog or cat (or any other animal, for that matter) on a whim. PLEASE!
~~Wiccan~~
