That is so sad! Aren't there any state laws as to how much room they must have? I think calling the Humane Society is a good first step. That little one needs liberated! If you can get the actual dates narrowed down (even if you have to act good natured to question an employee) then write to the paper too. Make sure you stir some public opinion against this place!
The Animal Welfare Act (
Animal Welfare Act : Government and Professional Resources : Animal Welfare Information Center) gives actual standards that must be maintained for cage size and exercise opportunities.
About the price though......that is not really out of line. I just paid $1500 for mine. But she came from a good breeder that I know. She was actually going to be more but they knocked off a little for me because I am a repeat customer. So, it is not the price that is at issue -- it is the fact that they are perpetuating a horror on this poor Yorkie. First born to who knows what puppymill and then relegated to an existance like this. No real life at all......
I know how much you can want to free a pup from such a place, but I agree that paying money to the pet shop is just encouraging them to continue. They will use that money to order another pup into that same situation. I hve been tempted when I have seen a little one in a pet shop. I just mke myself stay completely out of any pet shop that sells cats and dogs. They do not deserve my money for anything. But the mall has caught my eye with their window display many times.