Avoiding puppy mills is the number one way to put them out of business. If you are looking for a puppy, read on to learn avoidance strategies. First we will cover what a puppy mill is, and then we will move on to the THREE TIPS YOU NEED TO KNOW and by the time we finish, you will have a better understanding of puppy mills and you will know how to avoid them.

What is a Puppy Mill?

Saw mills produce wood, windmills produce wind and puppy mills produce puppies. Like a production line with no regard to the heath or well-being of the animals involved, they are churned out at a rapid pace. Space is limited, cages are stacked on top of each other, they are feed low quality, cheap food, they don't get to run and play outside and they are deprived of physical affection and attention from humans. The result of this is puppies with health and or behaviour issues.

Three Tips You Need To Know

Never purchase puppies from pet stores, newspaper ads or off of the Internet unless you do extensive research first. Pet stores frequently purchase puppies from mills and rarely can they produce paperwork that verifies that they were bought from a reputable source. Many times newspaper ads or Internet sites will lure you in with a sale and then will falsely state information regarding the blood line of the animals. Don't think for one minute that you are helping the situation if you "rescue" a pup by purchasing it from a mill. That will just add another notch in the owner's belt and they will breed even more puppies because business is good.

Where to Buy Puppies

Responsible breeders and animal shelters are the best places to purchase puppies. Great breeders do exist; you just need to seek them out. You can tell if a breeder is acceptable by visiting them or the area where they keep the puppies. If they are puppy mill owners they will be hesitant to show you the area where the animals are kept. A good breeder will be concerned about you and how well you will take care of the puppy. If the facility is spacious, clean and the animals look healthy and happy then you probably found a good breeder. Don't be afraid to ask for references, good breeders will be happy to provide these. Animal shelters are another great avenue for purchasing puppies. Many times they will have the breed you are looking for or they can put you on a waiting list.

Knowledge is Power

Now you know what a puppy mill is and three tips to avoid them. You also have some resources for purchasing a puppy. The next step is very important; talk about this. Through the power of speech, you will be able to share what you have learnt and to teach others the facts about puppy mills. If everyone stops buying from puppy mills, eventually they will no longer exist.