Puppies under the age of 8 weeks old are too young to be taken away from their mothers and littermates. Puppies under 8 weeks are also extremely susceptible to diseases as they are not old enough to receive the veterinarian recommended series of vaccines at such a young age. Reputable breeders don’t sell their puppies before 8 weeks of age. Selling puppies under the age of 8 weeks is illegal in several states.
The time period from birth through 8 weeks is crucial for healthy psychological and social development of puppies. They need to be with their mother and littermates to learn social skills and gain the confidence they will need to transition to their new environments. Taking pups from their mothers and siblings too early can affect them negatively and permanently. They may suffer from life-long separation anxiety, as well as other anxiety-based issues and behaviors.
Please help to protect the health and well being of just-weaned puppies. Ask Craig’s List to refrain from publishing ads that offer dogs under 8 weeks of age, whether for purchase or for “free”.
An example of such an ad:
German Shepard puppies
Date: 2012-11-06, 4:39PM
I am selling 7 german shepard puppies, they are barely one month old, looking for someone that will take good care for the pup they choose. They are not vaccinated yet, if you want me to vaccinate the puppy alone with the documentation it will be 120
If you are interest send me a message to inquire for more
• it's NOT ok to contact this poster with services or other commercial interests
Original URL: http://losangeles.craigslist.org/lac/for/3391783851.html
Dear Misters Newmark and Yim:
Please stop allowing ads for puppies under the age of 8 weeks of age. Pups that young have not received their first round of vaccinations and are therefore vulnerable to many contagious diseases. Additionally, leaving their mother and littermates too early can cause lifelong anxiety-based behavioral problems.
Reputable breeders don’t sell their pups until they are 8 weeks old or older. Selling puppies under this age is illegal in several states. Please institute this policy on your website.
