How much is that doggie in the window? I'll bet that Rosemary Clooney knew not of what she advertised when she crooned out that song so long ago. A puppy mill is simply a dog factory. The objective is to create as many dogs as possible, for the highest profit. These 'products' are distributed by pet stores. Quality and well-being are disregarded. Unsuspecting animal lovers think they are bringing home a new family pet, but are unaware of the many psychological and physical problems they probably have.

Raised in cages, usually out of doors, these dogs lack proper health care and human interaction. Usually several different breeds are raised together, making it difficult to keep breeds from blending. The females are bred every time they go into a heat, which is very stressful for her. Puppies are taken away from their mothers earlier than they should be, sometimes at a few weeks old. They are 'stored' in stacked cages, where the eliminations of others fall on top of them. Sometimes, dogs who die aren't even removed from the kennel. There is little regard for the welfare of the dogs, who will be sold as pets. For more information, read the PETA Factsheet and see below. Sold in a pet store, they are no cheaper than if purchased by a reputable breeder. Often, when a pet is purchased, there are unseen health problems. Sometimes, a pet is visably sick, but the may dealer assure the new owner that a vet has seen the animal, and they are on medication. Papers come with most of these puppies, but authenticity is not common. If this is not enough to warn an unsuspecting family about the potential horrors, read: Illinois Puppy Rescue Puppy Mill Nightmare Bridgeport Puppies Bunnel Puppy Mill Puppy Mill Pictures Louisiana Mill Raided Lyles TN Puppy Mill Real Stories What can I do? Most importantly, DO NOT purchase a puppy from a pet store. As difficult as it is to see those sweet faces in the window, you will only purpetuate the cycle of supply and demand. While saving that one puppy, you will be supporting wretched beginnings and lives of many others. If going to a breeder, ask to see the facilities, mother and (if breeder owned) the father. Request pedigree papers, in addition to registration papers. Avoid breeders who breed more than one breed at that location. Write to your congressman, urging him to support: HB2009/HB2100 Dog Owner's Guide: Stopping a puppy mill What you can do help stop Puppy Mills U.S. Department of Agriculture Attn: APHIS Washington, D.C. 20250 Phone: 202-720-2791 (this is the USDA contact number, ask for APHIS)

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