Meredith, I think that your dream and your system is lovely!
I wish that I could find a way to make it work here...I'd be all for getting it started!
I agree that an organization that teaches responsible breeding practices, that supports the breeders, the customers and the dogs is an ideal that should be in force.
There are a few organizations like that in the US, but there are also so many problems with those particular groups...pity too, because it could be a boon to the dog world!
Another sad disadvantage is that these responsible, trained, member breeders would (rightfully) expect to charge more for their dogs...and there would likely be a market, but there are far too many people in the US relying on back yard breeders and puppy mills to buy a "bargain" Doodle...they don't want to pay extra for the quality that comes from legitamate, concerned breeding programs.
Thankfully, good breeders go the extra mile because they believe it is the right thing to do...they don't do it for profit, but it is still very disheartening to be placed side-by-side against untrained, ill-prepared breeders and then to watch as people make purchases based solely on price, not quality.
I love the way you describe the animal control situation in other countries. In fact, the things you mention have been included in my point of view when I speak against mandatory spay/neuter laws...it seems to me that promoting responsible breeding and responsible pet ownership is the key, not madating sterilization. But...that't another pulpit...
