I have had many dogs over the years; as a child and now. I can honestly say I never knew anything about puppy mills. The first time I became aware, was when I purchased "Halo", our cairn/scottie mix. I worked with a girl whose neighbor bred dogs. She said so many great things about her, so I thought why not see what kind of puppies she has available. I didn't have a special breed in mind, so off I went. Once I arrived, I thought I would vomit. She had a little pen set up outside of her house with a mix of puppies. I noticed that one of them looked a little sluggish and she said that he had just woken up. All around me were cages on top of cages, outside mind you, that housed many breeds of dogs. I could not believe my eyes! I was so sad! I almost walked away, but I felt if I left that little puppy there it would die and nobody would care.
I bought the puppy and low and behold that evening I had to rush him to the vet. He had parvo! After many tears and many dollars later, he has lived to be a healthy 5 year old dog. I will never, ever, buy another dog from anything that resembles a puppy mill, including pet stores. I called the women that sold me the puppy and told her what had happened. I yelled and screamed at her for the lies and her actions. After many days and many threatening phone calls, she reimbursed me for the puppy, but would not touch the vet bill.
I have learned my lesson the hard way! Even though it is hard to watch some of these commercials they are now showing about puppy mills, it is education. Loving pet owners have to spread the word about backyard breeders/sellers/puppy mills/pet stores. It is dangerous and appalling!
I appreciate the fact that you tried to do the right thing. Now, let's hope the puppy is healthy...
