Pet Store Supports Puppy Mills

[EmilyB]

Oh right I forgot, you don't have dogs do you? You should check out the Humane Society for cats, seems like that's all they have these days...

[Der_Iron_Chef]

Originally Posted by EmilyB

Oh right I forgot, you don't have dogs do you? You should check out the Humane Society for cats, seems like that's all they have these days...

LOL. No, but I do love dogs...and I'd hate to support an inhumane trade. I'm just saying...it seems difficult to really KNOW who is reputable and who isn't. At least for me....it seems like it might be.

But yeah. If I wanted a pet, I'd probably hit up the humane society first.

[dsaundry]

The one question I asked and you have still not answered is how do you know that this dog is from a "puppy mill"? If you do report this to the authorities, the first question they will ask is what proof you have. "Gut" instinct isn't enough. You have said in your previous posts that another member should do his research. Have you done yours? I am very familiar with the deplorable condition that dogs{amongst other animals} are kept in when they are in these inhumane breeding factories. My question still stands. What proof do you have that this animal is from a "puppy mill"? If it is indeed from a "mill" then the pet store in question and the "mill" operators should face the concequences. I have worked with both the S.P.C.A. and law enforcement officers and have seen some horrible situations regarding animals. I have also seen reputable breeders been put under the microscope due to an uninformed opinion. I am talking about breeders who go above and beyond when it come to the care of their animals. If you are going to proceed with your charges against this "Store" then make sure you have all your facts and document all your evidence against them so they can face charges. I am not against you on your quest for humane treatment of animals, I am concerned that you may not have the "evidence" that you need to charge these people.

[Keri]

The problem with buying a puppy from a pet store is almost No reputable breeder could in good conscious sell to a pet store NOT KNOWING where the puppy was going to end up. Also, selling to a pet store decreases the risk that the puppy's owners are going to be able to get a hold of that breeder when the genetic issues turn up.
That being said, those pet store puppies still need good homes, it's a difficult situation... I guess when you buy one you should just know what you're getting yourself into and GET PET INSURANCE BEFORE issues arise so your *** will be covered

That's my 2cents.

Also: just because it only has 3 legs doesn't mean it won't be a great dog, it doesn't affect them the way it does many people....dogs are a little bit wonderful in that respect

[EmilyB]

If you need to find a reputable breeder for a specific breed, do some research. The same way you research your fish purchases I guess.

I can give you some leads for GSD's and Dobermans. Others on here can give you leads for other breeds.

[EmilyB]

Do you yourself know what backyard breeding is?

[Der_Iron_Chef]

I believe it's people who breed dogs to make a buck....not necessarily with the knowledge of what it takes to breed appropriately/responsibly/ethically/etc.

Hey, I'm just curious here...not trying to raise a stink I considered getting a dog, but decided against it as I feel my apartment is too small, and that I don't have the time to devote to such a social creature with specific needs.

Just out of curiosity, what's a GSD? And do you think a Doberman would be happy in my 1100 sq. foot apartment?

[Sebae again]

IMO the best thing to do is ask to see the parents.There are now ''breeders'' who are buying dogs from other sources and giving the impression that they are their own.Everything looks like a ''mom and pop operation'' but some of these people are making a full fledged business out of this out of their home.

[EmilyB]

A GSD is a German Shepherd Dog. That is the exact name of the breed. If you like a velcro demanding dog, that is the Doberman. The well-bred one, anyway.

Seeing the parents is fine. But do you know if they are clear of the possible genetic defects etc for the breed ? Make sure of that.

Anyway, *edited* is notorious for buying from puppy mills. Google it. I have to see it, because I go in there to look...it haunts me. Not in the rest of the city apparently. In fact, how many places are there in Calgary where they sell puppies of unknown origin?

[Chaloupa]

How to buy a dog;
Talk to a veterinarian and get breeder listings from them, then contact the breeder, ask to meet them and their dogs and get many many references. Get the breeders vet's name and ask for a reference from them too. Then because you have researched the breed you know what other things to ask about...ie hips and elbows are free from hip dysplasia, their eyes are clear and have been tested, they have no inherited issues in their lines, etc

I am with ya on the puppy mills....sad sad state most of those dogs live in all their lives. My Mom manages an SPCA and their job is so tough.

Hopefully the SPCA there can and will inspect the pet store that has the puppy BUT unless there is a health concern, it is not being fed/given water, kept warm and dry etc there isn't a bunch they can do with the puppy...after all it's not illegal for pet stores to purchase puppies wherever they want...and then they get the impulse shopper that has to buy that "Dachshund type" or "Purebred Bichon Poodle mix" (love those ones) for $1200.00.

Anyone interested in a dog should always research, research, research first...just like we preach here!