Paige, I think we all benefit from the education that comes with discussion of difficult topics. And this is certainly an appropriate venue for such discussion. The situations you've described give AR groups validation for their efforts to eradicate breeders of any companion animal. Bringing the skeletons out of the closet into the light of day makes us stronger in the long run. I don't believe in "trashing" breeders. I do believe that those with poor husbandry practices or a history of producing unhealthy animals should be exposed. It does no good to the breeding community and potential buyers to keep this type of information closeted -- whether they are BYBs or registered catteries. The truth always comes out.
Now for the tough question. What measures can be put in place that will have a positive effect on preventing future similar situations?[/quote
This is where you hope the market would take care of itself, that a poor product means no one buys from the producer and said producer ultimately goes out of business. The problem, of course, is the product being produced is a living creature with feelings which throws a huge monkey wrench into the equation. We can't, in good conscious, sit back and let animals be collateral damage while market forces work. That, and lets face it, owning a Savannah is a very cool thing. A well bred kitty is out of reach financially for many, so there is a "market" for these "bargains". People fail to understand vet bills will be insane, but I wonder how many will spend that kind of cash on treatment if they wouldn't upfront? I pray more do than I currently believe.
How can I help?