03/27/2026
As a breeder it is in my contract that if anything happens call me and I will help in anyway possible. When owning a pet life happens. Life can throw things at you that are out of your control and the last thing many want to do is get rid of their pet. In almost 10 years I have had a few returned to me for different reasons such as death, divorce, failing out of a breeding program, and unfortunately not being a good fit for their home. As breeders we should be striving to match puppies to homes that they thrive in, but sometimes, no matter the effort, the puppy/dog may not be a great fit. I have either found the dog a great home or I’ve worked with someone the family knows that will give the dog a great home. The last thing that I want to see is a puppy that I planned, bred, and raised for 8 weeks go to a shelter.
It’s a shame when an animal ends up in animal control when it was bred locally in Monterey, IL by Rilea’s Labradors.
River was surrendered to animal control. Animal control contacted Rileas and let them know their dog is at risk of euthanasia due to lack of space and begged and pleaded for them to take their dog back. They said no….
Animal Control knew this was a great family pet and deserved a chance - so even though we are dealing with Parvo, have full kennels, an influx of returns, and appointments keep cancelling- we said YES.
River is now in our care. So once again, Animal Control and a nonprofit animal shelter had to step in and save the animal because the breeder will not take the dog back. This post is an educational post to anyone that wants to go to a breeder. Do your research. If the breeder will not take their dogs back- go elsewhere. Better yet go to an animal shelter that is housing the breeders adult dogs. 
It’s a shame that they don’t want a dog they brought into this world now that it’s not a puppy worth $1,000 anymore.
Animals deserve kindness. Treat them like the living beings they are and not like property. 
