A puppy mill is defined as an establishment that breeds puppies for sale, typically on an intensive basis and in conditions that are regarded as inhumane. These poor dogs have to suffer in cramped conditions; their quality of life is extremely poor. While this sounds super gloomy, the good news is that we have the power to band together and help! Puppy Mill Action Week helps to draw attention to this issue, but puppy mills are something we should be working towards banning for good each and every day.
Why do folks even get dogs from puppy mills anymore? The simple fact is that many people are still uneducated. Puppy mill owners push lies on prospective pet owners who don’t know any better when it comes to how these dogs are bred and raised. If you, or someone you know, is looking to add a furry friend to their family, be sure to look into these options instead:
- Don’t buy a puppy from a pet store
- Adopt from a local rescue or shelter
- Find a responsible breeder and be sure to research and visit the premises
- Fight the temptation to “rescue” a puppy mill dog by purchasing from them – you’ll only be continuing the vicious cycle!
It’s understandable that you may want to rescue a puppy mill dog. However, as mentioned above, you’ll only be adding to the problem. If you know of a puppy mill or someone that is breeding or keeping dogs in inhumane conditions, you can alert local animal control authorities. If you do wish to buy from a breeder, be sure to do your research. Don’t rely on word of mouth or internet ads.
Another trap that folks often fall into is buying from a pet store. Unfortunately, pet stores are often supplied with pets from puppy mills; that’s no good! Again, you may want to “rescue” pets from life in a pet store, but there are other ways to help rather than buying them from there.
The best way to put an end to puppy mills is to be active in your community, make phone calls, and sign relevant legislation to end these awful places! Visit your local no-kill rescues and be sure to donate to them as well. Every penny counts! The idea of ending all puppy mills may seem overwhelming, but if we all band together we can help shut them down for good!
Do you have a rescue pup? We’d love to see them! Follow us on Instagram, @PuffandFluffSpa, and tag us in your photos! Better yet, bring your tiny pooches into one of our four Puff and Fluff Spa locations!