PUPPY MILL AWARENESS DAY

It saddens me to post this picture, but people need to be informed of the inhumane treatment of the living conditions in puppy mills.

Puppy mills are high-volume breeding facilities designed to churn out puppies for as much profit as possible. The needs of the parents of dogs and puppies are ignored, and they are kept in inhumane conditions, in small, cramped cages, with no personal attention.

When father and mother dogs can no longer breed, they are abandoned or killed. Due to various factors such as overbreeding, poor sanitation, or lack of preventative veterinary care, puppies from puppy mills tend to suffer from health issues and are usually unsocialized. It’s estimated that there are around 10,000 active puppy mills in the United States, where 500,000 dogs are being kept solely for breeding purposes, and in total, there are 2.6 million puppies that come from puppy mills sold every year. Please note the following as ways to stop puppy mills.

• Spread the word: Educate family and friends about what puppy mills are doing to our beloved animals.
• Research local events: Some organizations will set up events to raise funds and awareness. You can make it a family day out, learn something, and support rescue groups at a local level.
• Adopt a dog: If you think you have room in your family for another pet needing a forever home, you could adopt a dog. Or if a family member or friend has been thinking of getting a new pet, let them know of the benefits of adopting.
• Donate money, time, or resources to a local shelter: Taking in a pet is costly and a big decision, and if you feel the time isn’t right for your family, you could always contact your local shelter and see if they need anything you could give.

Because most puppy mills are not illegal, we need help from the public to put an end to the consumer demand for their “product.” You can help the HSUS put a stop to puppy mills by getting your next dog from an animal shelter, rescue group or a humane and responsible breeder that you have carefully screened in person. Remember to adopt. Don’t shop.  Be aware of puppy mills not only on the day but always.