Is it normal for someone to purchase a five year old golden retriever at a pet store? Is it just puppies that are found in pet stores? This is for my short story.

Question

anonymous · Answer

From what I've seen at the Petland stores in Canada, they only have puppies. I don't own a dog, so I wouldn't be able to answer the first question, but as for the second one, I have always only seen puppies. Hope I helped a bit!

anonymous · Answer

Same here, I'm in the US, I think I have always seen puppies but some were bigger than others, but not like a golden retriever, not sure about purchasing one for a 5-year old.

anonymous · Answer

Thanks everyone

anonymous · Answer

Animal Rescue organizations often adopt dogs at pet stores that don't sell dogs.  Petsmart is one chain that refuse to sell "puppies" because there are so many dogs that need a home.  I have two Golden Rescue dogs...See my Icon

anonymous · Answer

Please consider adopting a dog from a rescue organization or from your community Humane Society.

anonymous · Answer

Yes it is normal if adopting from a rescue organization

anonymous · Answer

You could always put the spin on it that it was curious even ironic that your characters found a five year old lab considering they are rarely sold there. Maybe even add in the fact that it was meant to be because the dog was as out of place in the world as your characters. (If that's even an option since I haven't read your work)