Dogs are wonderful creatures. They are loyal and reliable companions if given the opportunity. In recent years I have come to the conclusion that we could learn something from these animals. We should also take a look at the way they are treated. Abandonment, irresponsible breeding and neglect are just some of the ways humans are failing the canine species. A few years ago my husband Ryan and I decided to get a dog. For several weeks we took trips to the Regina Humane Society, waiting to find the perfect dog for us. We never even considered buying a purebred dog. I didn't want to buy a pet from someone who breeds dogs for profit when there are so many homeless dogs who need a second chance. One day, while I was on www.kijiji.com, I saw an advert for two free Old English Sheepdogs. What made this ad unique was the line stating that the dogs were blind due to unfortunate breeding circumstances. Ryan and I were thinking about adopting one of these dogs, we liked the idea of ​​giving a good home to an animal he couldn't see. It wasn't until a few days later that I really thought about the term "unfortunate reproductive circumstances." I was at a local pet store buying food for my cat when I started discussing my potential new pet with the store owner. He informed me that some people try to breed dogs with specific traits in mind. In this case it could have led to inbreeding and there was a possibility that the dogs would also have temperament problems. I felt bad for the dogs, but I didn't feel comfortable as a large dog who might have temperament issues. Because there are some irresponsible breeders, animals are born with disabilities and perfectly good pets fill human societies. These animals may ... middle of paper ... a dog's third most important sense and can live a happy, full life without it. Fergus has been a great addition to our family. We had to work a little to get things right, but I can't imagine giving him up. If more people were willing to put a little effort into their relationship with their pet, there would be fewer abandoned animals in human society. If fewer people supported backyard breeders, the demand would be eliminated. Dogs show their families so much love and devotion, it would be great if everyone could return these feelings to their deserving companions. Works Cited Cowan, Pamela. “For some, time is running out.” Regina Sunday 24 January 2010: 6. Print. Photo by Roy AntalHarroway, Female. “From cyborgs to companion species: reconfiguring kinship in technoscience.” English Course Package 387. Regina: Professor J. Battis, 2009. 304-311. Press.