Puppy Mills

I know, another depressing subject.  Sorry about that, folks.

The Missouri people passed a referendum to require basic health and safety standards for the state’s puppy mills.  Now the legislature is poised to nullify the new law because it’s “too expensive.”

My first dog was abused for a year by a Deputy Sheriff, then in a no-kill shelter for a year where I visited her weekly until I was told by a fellow volunteer that she was to be euthanized the following week.  I took that girl home and we spent ten wonderful years together and she loved everyone, people, dogs and cats (she raised my youngest).

Nearly 8 years ago my husband and I adopted a six week-old Aussie mix pup from a shelter.  She’d already been spayed at five weeks, and was suffering from hookworm and severe coccidia, and needed fluids two days after we got her home.

Then a couple of months later we had to have her hips taken out and she had to grow her own.  I say this because I adopt from shelters.  None of the pet stores have animals for purchase.  One I’ve helped with has a few cats that are up for adoption through a local shelter.

Why buy a puppy that’s been raised by a mother in horrible conditions who only has puppies, litter after litter?  I adopted two dogs from horrific conditions and two cats as well, during my lifetime.  I am dedicated to giving them a good life and caring for them for the rest of their lives.

Buying a substandard puppy is ludicrous.  I would not judge you harshly if you researched the type of dog you want and reputable breeders and bought one.  But looking at that doggy in the window just doesn’t make sense.

Please contact hsus.org and let them know you support the people’s vote to enact basic health and safety standards for puppy mills, and NOT the Legislature’s efforts to repeal that law.  Zoe (my rescue dog) and I thank you.  Dee