Pet Adoption - The Sad Reality of Puppy Mills

Trash piles, the remains of dogs that were never loved, feces everywhere, an appalling stink, and crowded kennels filled with neglected animals. What kind of life is this?

That, unfortunately, is the reality for dogs and puppies born and raised in what's known as a "puppy mill".

Puppy mills are breeders who force their dogs to produce puppies as fast as they can in order to turn a profit. There is no breeding program, little attention to who the dog goes home with, puppies are usually in poor health and are also poorly socialized. There are always puppies available for sale.

Puppy mill operators are in it solely for the profit. They are unable to take care of the sheer number of dogs they have, and as a result, the dogs are typically neglected or even abused. The dogs live miserable lives ... puppy mills are typically overcrowded, dirty, without adequate food, water, or shelter, lack of proper medical care, and certainly without love. Many dogs suffer needlessly before finally dying.

Some pet shops are supplied by puppy mill operators. These pet shops thrive from the constant supply of puppies, which in turn allow the puppy mill itself to thrive as well.

We can all help put puppy mills out of business. Please don't support pet stores or businesses that are supplied by puppy mills.

Of course, not all breeders are puppy mill operators. Legitimate commercial kennels also exist to breed and sell puppies. These kennels are clean, provide veterinary care, socialize their puppies, and have a breeding program in place.

Please consider adopting a pet from your local humane society or animal shelter. These places are filled with loving, healthy dogs that would make a wonderful addition to your family. All they need is a chance!

Related Articles:

• Choosing a Family Pet
• Humane Societies, Animal Shelters, and Rescue Organizations
• Cat Budget
• Dog Budget