Havanese Rescue Centre Information

The Havanese is a small dog that is native to the island of Cuba. The breed may date back to as early as the 16th century. Though considered a "toy" dog, Havanese are a hardy little breed that have been historically used to herd chickens and as child-friendly pets. Named for Havana, Cuba, Havanese were originally dogs of aristocratic families. This breed is known for its silky, heat-resistant coat and for its charming, family-friendly and fun personality.

Purebred Havanese can cost anywhere from $1,000- $3,000. Due to their price and popularity, many Havanese' are being bred illegally in puppy mills and sold at dog auctions and through pet stores. Fans of the breed and other dog and animal lovers have rallied together to create Havanese rescue centers due to the unethical practices of some breeders. Havanese rescue centers help to save these sociable, popular little dogs from a life of maltreatment.

Havanese rescue centers serve several functions. First, their volunteers and members work to rescue Havanese dogs raised in puppy mills and sold through illegal auctions. Second, the centers work to find foster and/or adoptive homes for the Havanese they rescue. Havanese rescue centers often work to raise awareness of animal cruelty and mistreatment of the breed. They may also raise money to help fund the cause of Havanese rescue.

Reputable Havanese rescue centers are often affiliated with the ASPCA (American Society for the Prevention of Cruelty to Animals), the AKC (American Kennel Club) or both. Most have websites and legitimate contact information for research and verification. Resources and other helpful information such as ways to help the cause of Havanese rescue are also provided on their websites. Members of rescue teams often use their own money and other resources to rescue Havanese sold at puppy auctions. A quick call or email to a centre can help verify the centres' legitimacy.

Havanese rescue centres are doing their part to make sure that each and every Havanese has a chance to live a happy life. Because these little dogs are so fun loving and social, being raised in a puppy mill is a very real threat to the happiness of future Havanese. Supporters of Havanese rescues donate generous amounts of their money and time to help save Havanese from the puppy mills. They also arrange spaying and neutering before rescue dogs are fostered or adopted out.

No animal should be raised in poor conditions. Puppy mills are used to breed as many puppies as possible for profit with little to no regard for socialization or affection. Puppy mills are particularly unpleasant for the fun-loving, friendly Havanese. Havanese rescue volunteers help take Havanese out of that lifestyle and place them back in the loving, family environment they need. Please help support Havanese rescue centres in making sure that the lovable "Havs" aren’t delegated to a life of "Hav nots".

Fiona Kelly is a life-long animal lover and supporter of animal rescue. Havanese rescue helps the lovable Havanese remain "Havs" rather than becoming "Hav nots". Havanese information and Havanese rescue centre information are both contained in this article.