Procne wrote:Shelters probably do only basic health exams.
Depends on the shelter. Certified shelters can do very extensive exams, vaccines, and such, and usually mandate sterilization.
With animals from breeders you also know the parents and grandparents of the pet. And you can expect that genetic issues were excluded through selective breeding.
Not even close to reality. Breeds are created for specific looks or personality types. Sometimes you get rid of some genetic issues, sometimes more are created. Inbreeding is a *****.
Also, you get a young animal from a breeder, so it's easier to train it. Pets at shelters have their characters already formed.
While the latter part is true, character can be changed (ie manipulated). While, much like people, certain core things will always be there from previous experiences, new experiences can override the old learning. Anxiety issues are the worst because of the strength of fear in mammals.
It's a bit similar to why people prefer to raise their own children than to adopt them.
you know how hard it is to adopt a child? Besides, most people can't even raise their own children properly. Well enough? Sure, but properly? Nah, not really. I won't even mention the willingness to adopt. It's easier to get a cat or dog that will listen and obey rather than deal with a rational (or irrational) human child.
