In the first part of our article, we exposed the grim reality behind the glossy facade of the kennel Balihara Ranch and the heartbreaking story of Fantasy iz Blagorodnoho doma, an Entlebucher Mountain Dog subjected to relentless breeding for profit. As we dive deeper into this disturbing tale, we will uncover the severe physical and psychological suffering Fantasy endured, the lack of genetic diversity in her breeding, and the broader implications for the breed and future owners. Her story is a stark reminder of the urgent need for ethical breeding practices and compassionate animal care.

source: skssp.eu

Physical Suffering

Each pregnancy placed an enormous strain on Fantasy’s body. Hormonal fluctuations, weight gain, birthing, and subsequent nursing exhausted her system. Her body never had time to recover. The constant production of puppies likely resulted in:

• Chronic pain: Muscle fatigue, joint, and spine pain. Dogs that suffer this way often barely walk; their steps are heavy and painful.
• Risk of infections: Each subsequent pregnancy increases the likelihood of uterine inflammation, infections, or stillbirths.
• Loss of vitality: Over time, her body changed – the sparkle in her eyes faded, and her energy was replaced by apathy.

Psychological Suffering

Dogs are sensitive and emotional creatures. Fantasy must have experienced psychological suffering that cannot be overlooked:

• Maternal instinct was suppressed to a minimum: After giving birth, the puppies were taken away soon to be prepared for sale. For the mother, this meant repeated stress and a sense of loss.
• Isolation: Dogs need company, love, and care. Fantasy, with the highest probability, was reduced to an isolated life, with no place for play, walks, or simple caressing.
• Grim fate: Every dog that serves in such “puppy factories” endures constant stress – fear of the next mating, painful birth, and separation.

Risks of Early Breeding

Young dogs that are bred too early often suffer from:

• Insufficient development: Their bodies are not strong enough to handle pregnancy and childbirth without risk.
• Increased risk of complications: Young dogs have a higher likelihood of complications during birth, which can endanger their lives and the lives of the puppies.
• Psychological stress: Young dogs are not emotionally prepared to care for puppies, which can lead to stress and anxiety.

The Dangers of Genetic Repetition

Repeating the same genetic combination:

• Increases the risk of genetic diseases: Hereditary disorders, such as hip dysplasia or progressive retinal atrophy, can spread faster in such closely bred populations.
• Undermines the future of the breed: Entlebuchers are already a breed with limited genetic variability. Such breeding practices rob them of a chance for a healthy future.

Consequences for Breeding and Future Owners

A kennel that does not consider genetic diversity or the welfare of its animals is not only unethical – it is dangerous. Owners of puppies from such kennels often face problems:

• The dogs may suffer from chronic health problems, leading to high veterinary costs.
• The dogs may be psychologically unstable, resulting in behavioral issues.
• Damage to breeding reputation: with growing public concern about the ethics of breeding, these practices, if proven true, could severely tarnish the reputation of the entire industry.
• “Pedigree” has become merely a marketing tool, with no real significance to the quality of the dogs.

Forgotten and Silenced

How did Fantasy end up? Without any information, it is easy to assume the worst. Many breeders who operate similar “puppy factories” either sell the dogs after their “usefulness” ends, get rid of them, or in some cases, even euthanize them.

What Can We Do?

Fantasy may already be long gone, but her story must serve as a warning. If we want to stop these practices, we must act:

1. Report breeders like Balihara Ranch: Inform the relevant authorities about suspicions of unethical practices.
2. Do not support such kennels: Do not buy dogs from kennels that do not care about animal welfare or genetic diversity.
3. Share the truth: Inform your acquaintances so they do not become part of this cycle of suffering.