Stories about illegal puppy mills are all over the news these days. Unfortunately, not much is being done to stop this wicked atrocity that brings so much pain to innocent dogs. The conditions the dogs live in are indescribable. Craving human companionship and affection, these animals live their lives in tiny cages, where they get to do nothing but have puppies over and over again. There are many ways to help these abused and neglected dogs by working within the law to shut down puppy mills.
Instructions
1. Educate yourself. Contact your local animal shelter or rescue and ask for information. You can even contact the Humane Society of the United States to learn more about puppy mills. Also get in touch with local authorities to learn the applicable laws in your area.
2. Educate others. Share the accurate information you have obtained with people who have similar beliefs about animals. Write a blog explaining puppy mills and the horrific conditions these dogs must endure. Tell your friends and family what you have learned. Invite them to help you shut down these places of terror. Write letters to the editor of you local newspaper, explaining the situation these dogs face--particularly if there is a puppy mill close to you.
3. Support animal-related causes. Donate to reputable animal shelters and rescues, especially those that employ animal-welfare officers. Volunteer at these shelters, helping to free up funds that can help shut down puppy mills. Give of your talents, whatever they may be. Lick stamps and participate in fund-raisers. Every little bit helps, so be sure to do your share.
4. Encourage local authorities to be more proactive when it comes to puppy mills. Support politicians running for office who will pass stricter laws concerning puppy mills. Start a petition asking for more animal-welfare officers. Attend local events that champion animal causes. Contact local television and radio stations, as well as newspapers, to make sure they are aware of the event.
5. Contact the police or the sheriff’s office if you suspect a puppy mill is in your area. Know the laws regarding the number of animals a breeder can legally have and the housing (or shelter) requirements he must meet. If the authorities are unwilling to do anything, contact the media. Let the authorities to know that you will be doing this; it adds a bit of pressure on them to make sure the matter is handled properly.
6. Never confront a breeder about running a puppy mill. This can be an extremely dangerous situation for you. If a breeder feels you are suspicious of her, it is easy for her to move her puppy mill to another location. These puppy mills are usually highly mobile; they can be closed and moved in a matter of hours. Do not call the authorities until you are off the property.
Tags: puppy mills, puppy mill, puppy mills, animal-welfare officers, down puppy