Frequently Asked Questions...

Some information on you, and your objectives as a breeder:
We first owned a Rhodesian Ridgeback (Grunt) in 1999, and were very impressed with the breed’s temperament, grace and good looks. We purchased our bitch (Inda) in 2006. While Inda herself has not yet been extensively shown, her parents (owned by Matt & Jan Benson-Lidholm) are Australian Champions with impressive pedigrees spanning at least 5 generations. We love the Rhodesian Ridgeback breed and are committed to producing puppies that meet the breed standard. While some people may choose to show their puppies, many choose the Ridgeback for their loyal companion and pet characteristics. With this in mind, temperament is one of our first considerations in breeding a litter.

What do you look for in a prospective puppy home?
We would like to see our puppies go to permanent homes where they can live their lives in comfort, companionship, and safety. These considerations mean that the puppy buyer should be committed to caring for the dog for its lifetime (around 12yrs), and be reasonably confident they can provide for its care and health needs for that time frame. The dog’s new home should also be safely fenced. A life on a chain is no life at all for a dog (or any animal), and a sturdy and tall fence will mean the dog has freedom within his own backyard.

We would also appreciate updates and photos from time to time of your puppy in his new home.

What type of person would a ridgeback suit?
There are many sources of information about the Ridgeback’s characteristics, and you should do some research on this topic before deciding that the Ridgeback is breed for you. These websites contain useful information…
http://www.rrcus.org/club/breedinfo/For_you.htm
http://rrcwa.com/images/MISC/INFO%20BOOKLET.pdf

Are your breeding stock tested for hereditary problems?
In accordance with the Rhodesian Ridgeback Club of WA’s Code of Ethics, our breeding stock are x-rayed and hip and elbow scored for Hip Dysplasia. Almost all breeds of dogs have a degree of HD, where the ball of the hip does not correctly fit into the socket. The degree of HD ranges from 0-106. The lower the score the better hip joints the dog has. In ridgebacks the average total score is quite low at 6.3. Our current breeding bitch scores at 2:2, totaling 4. Elbow score is 0:1, totaling 1.

Dermoid Sinus is condition that can affect Ridgebacks, and our pups are checked twice by experienced breeders before they leave home. They are also checked weekly at home. If a pup is found to have this condition, euthanasia is necessary.

Are your pups socialized before they leave you?
Our pups are brought up with our family, including our 3 daughters, and are extensively handled from a young age. We clip their nails regularly, and play with each pup individually at least once a day. This way, we also get to see their personalities, and can help find a pup that best suits you and your family.

What age are the puppies able to come to our home, and how should we care for our new puppy?
The Canine Association of WA’s Code of Ethics specifies that a pup must be at least 8 weeks of age when they leave the breeder’s care. All of our puppies come to you with an information booklet containing tips and hints on how to care for your new pet.

What happens if our life circumstances change unexpectedly and we can no longer care for our Ridgeback?
Sometimes unforeseen circumstances arise due to sickness, change of family dynamics, and other such events, that mean you are no longer able to take care of your Ridgeback. In this situation, we undertake to take your pet back, and find him a suitable new home.

If you have any questions that were not answered here, please email them to us… sarova_rr@westnet.com.au
We look forward of being of assistance to you.