Breeder Statement Regarding the Euthanasia of Mei Alucinor Tatooine

It is always painful when a puppy I have brought into the world ends up being euthanised. But it becomes even harder when the explanation afterward is placed on genetics – without necessarily aligning with the facts, the timeline, or the dialogue that never took place.

I have never claimed that the combination Millie came from was perfect. In hindsight, I can see that the litter could have been mentally stronger – and I take responsibility for that. But what I also know is that Millie was thoroughly tested as a puppy. The assessment clearly described how she responded, what she needed, and what kind of approach would be most beneficial for her. This information was shared and made available to the owner.

Still, I was not contacted when challenges began to appear. Instead, advice was sought from "behavior specialists" and dog trainers via social media and email – individuals who had never met Millie, never observed her in person, and who based their assessments on descriptions, not qualified behavioral evaluation. I was first informed of the planned euthanasia just over a week before it was to happen – by then, the decision was effectively already made.

I never had the opportunity to see Millie again, to evaluate her myself – or to have her assessed by qualified test leaderswith experience specifically with the breed. Not just with "dogs" in general, but this breed, which requires an understanding of its traits, background, and temperament.

To describe this as “a hidden hereditary genetic disorder” is a simplification. It may offer a clean explanation, but it omits many of the other contributing factors that could – and should – have been considered.

As for the explanation that important information was withheld as a mental defense mechanism, I do understand the instinct to protect oneself in difficult situations. But at the same time: When one chooses not to share critical information with the breeder – information that might have opened the door to help, assessment, or alternatives – one also removes the possibility for the dog’s life to take a different course. This is not about intention – it’s about consequence. And in this case, the consequence was final.

This is not about placing blame. It’s about responsibility. About understanding that a puppy is not a neutral project. That it comes with obligations, cooperation, and the space to ask for help – not only when everything is going well, but especially when it’s not.

And above all: That respect for the dog’s life also means respecting the process that might have made a difference.