In case anyone who visits our PUPS page wonders why we ask you to fill out our Puppy Questionnaire, why we ask so many questions before placing a puppy, why we screen as thoroughly as we do, it is because we DO NOT EVER want to hear that one of our puppies ends up in a bad place, such as a puppy mill. We go to great lengths to check our referrals, we even call your vet to verify that you are a responsible pet owner. If you do not have a vet, we ask for other solid referrals, such as teachers or employers. Please do not be offended. Any responsible Cavalier breeder should do the same. This wonderful breed has been terribly exploited by unscrupulous breeders who could care less about health, temperament, and conformation so we must be diligent as we place our babies.

Occasionally here at Crystalridge we may have an adult dog to place in a loving home. This may be a dog that we are not showing or using in our breeding program, or a Cavalier who would be happier as the “only child” in a loving family. Sometimes we may have a pup that is over 6 months old that we have kept for evaluation for the show ring and decide this pup should be in a pet home. To help us find just the right match for such a dog or puppy, often we call on a dear friend, Carol Allen, who lives in Dallas, Texas. Carol has one of our Cavaliers, Crystalridge’s Divine Miss A “Annabelle.” Because she is involved in Cavalier Rescue, Carol was able to find a wonderful companion for Annabelle named Penelope. Here are Carol and her two “Best Friends.”

Penelope was a very quiet, over-bred, down-trodden girl when Carol brought her home from Rescue, but look at her now! She had been in a puppy mill her whole life, having no telling how many puppies! We don’t know the exact circumstances of how she was released from the puppy mill, but Carol and Annabelle are thrilled that she was! Please understand that rescue is NOT for everyone. You must have endless patience with these dogs who don’t really know how to BE a normal dog, or who may never even act like one. Penelope has come a long way, but she still has quirks that she will no doubt always have. But giving a rescue dog a home is a very rewarding experience if you are willing to put in the time and effort. If you are interested in Cavalier Rescue, contact Carol . For more pictures of Penelope and Annabelle along with their loving owner and our dear friend, Carol, please click here.