The background of the puppy purchased from the pet store, found in the want ads, or being sold on the parking lot, during the peak puppy buying season, may come as a surprise to prospective owners.
Shannon Lacewell, owner of Paws Claws and More Rescue, in Wingo, recently took on the responsibility of caring for 95 abused and neglected dogs, rescued from a puppy mill in Missouri.
Lacewell entered into a contract with the City of Fulton earlier this year to house abandoned animals at her facility until claimed by the owner or adopted.
Puppy Mill dogs typically receive little to no medical care, live in squalid conditions with no exercise, socialization, or human interaction. These dogs are usually confined inside cramped wire cages, and must endure constant breeding cycles, according to a press release from the Humane Society, which recently launched the first national “puppy mill” tip line.
“Puppy Mill dogs come from breeders who breed large quantities of dogs to sell, without spaying or neutering them. These animals are just continuously bred,” Lacewell said.
Lois Birk, President of the Ken-Tenn Humane Society, has worked with Lacewell, and suggests those considering becoming dog owners, visit the environment the puppy comes from.
“It is important to visit the place where the dogs live. I think if people did this, they would not purchase a dog that has been bred at puppy mills,” Birk said.
Puppy mills are legal, in most states. However, breeders are required to be USDA licensed, and the facility in which the dogs are bred is usually inspected once per year, or upon complaint, according to Lacewell.
“Puppy mill breeders are very private. The mills are often found in isolated locations. Most breeders will sell the dogs from parking lots, and do not want the buyer to know the location where the animals are bred,” Chondra Davis, a volunteer at Paws Claws and More Rescue said.
A Tennessee law will go into effect in January, limiting the number of dogs breeders are allowed in the state.
According to Birk, smaller dogs from the mills often have dental problems, as a result of not being fed the proper foods.
“Conduct your own investigation. Check for skin lesions, red or swollen gums, and the behavior of the animal. Well adjusted dogs usually have had a happy puppyhood. Check to see if the animal is extremely aggressive, or shy,” Birk said.
Lacewell said the animals rescued from the mill will be vaccinated, spayed, and neutered, before available to adopt.
Davis said she does not suggest purchasing puppies as gifts, unless the owner is going to be dedicated to taking care of the animal, because once they grow, often times they end up back in shelters.
Upon choosing a puppy, Lacewell suggests potential owners do the following: • Obtain proof of shot records and vaccinations before a purchase or adoption is final. These should be given without question.
• Look for fleas on the animal (animals should be deflead before being sold or adopted).
• Check for bald spots. This could be an indication of mange or allergies (do not pay for a puppy with known health issues).
• Check the animal’s teeth and breath.
• Make sure the ears are clean.
• The animal’s eyes should be clear.
Those who wish to adopt an animal from Paws, Claws, and More Rescue, will be required to complete an application. An adoption fee will apply. However, fees will not exceed $150, depending on the care provided.
