11/16/2025
📢 Just because your dog is amazing does not mean you should become a breeder.
I saw a shelter post saying they’re “completely full” — and this is exactly why breeding shouldn’t just be the default when people say “someone should breed this good dog.” We already have enough dogs.
Breeding responsibly is not easy, cheap, or just about making “cute puppies.” Real, ethical breeders put thousands of dollars and countless hours into health testing, temperament work, and socializing puppies — and that’s stuff many backyard breeders skip.
Here’s what goes into it:
• Health & genetic testing isn’t a quick coat-of-paint job: Ethical breeders often pay $700–$1,650 or more per adult breeding dog for comprehensive screening, including DNA panels, hip/elbow X-rays, eye tests, heart checks, and more. 
• Even basic DNA/genetic tests for a dog cost $80–$200 depending on how extensive the screening is. 
• On top of testing, breeders spend an enormous amount of time with newborn puppies: socializing them, doing early neurological stimulation, play, potty training, etc. According to ethical breeding guides, 2–3 hours per day can go into interaction, enrichment, and social exposure. 
• It’s not just money out — breeders often take weeks off when whelping to be present 24/7 with puppies, especially in the first few weeks. 
• Many breeders retire their adult dogs after a few litters, because they prioritize the dog’s health and well-being over profit. 
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Bottom Line / Call to Action:
• We don’t need more dogs born just because “they’re good.”
• Let’s support real, responsible breeders who are doing the work and investing in health and temperament.
• If you want a dog, adopt — shelters are already full.
• If you think breeding is “just a way to make money,” do your research: real breeding is a labor of love, not a quick cash grab.
• Share this so more people understand what “responsible breeding” really means.
🚨 EVERY KENNEL IS FULL. We need immediate adopters & fosters. 🚨
The last two weeks have hit us hard.
Dogs are coming in faster than we can make space… and today, every single kennel - inside and outside - is full.
We don’t have empty kennels waiting.
We don’t have “extra space.”
We are completely maxed out and still taking in dogs from Burnet & Llano Counties every day.
So from now until Sunday, adoptions are just $11 to get these amazing dogs out of crowded kennels and into homes where they belong.
And here’s the thing:
These dogs aren’t “discount” animals. They are incredible companions who come with:
✔️ Spay/neuter
✔️ Microchip
✔️ Vaccines
✔️ Flea/tick + heartworm prevention
✔️ Support from our team every step of the way
✔️ SO much love to give
And if you’re not sure you’re ready to adopt?
We offer a Foster-First Trial Program - take a dog home, love them, let them decompress, and make sure it’s the right fit.
No pressure. No time limit. No cost. Just a chance.
Every single one of these faces is a dog we’re fighting for.
Every adoption or foster opens a kennel for the next dog who needs us…
and right now, that literally makes the difference between chaos and stability.
📍 Hill Country Humane Society
9150 W RM 1431, Buchanan Dam
⏰ Walk-ins every day from 12–5
If you can foster - please foster.
If you can adopt - please adopt.
If you can share - please share.
Someone out there is the difference for these dogs.
Please help us save lives today. 🖤🐾
