Don’t support puppy mills
The first and most important thing that you can do is to not support the puppy mill industry. Please do not buy your next pet from a pet store. It is widely estimated that nearly every puppy sold in a pet store has come from a commercial dog breeder or puppy mill. Responsible breeders carefully screen their buyers and do not sell to pet stores.
Consider adoption as your first option
Nearly every community has a local shelter. In Monmouth County, we have many wonderful shelters and rescue groups. We encourage you to visit shelters or rescues. There are wonderful dogs of all sizes, breeds, and temperaments.
If you do have your heart set on a particular breed, there are breed-specific rescues for almost every breed. About 25% of dogs in shelters are pure breeds.
Research breeders
Finally, if you do wish to go to a breeder, learn how to recognize a responsible breeder. A responsible breeder loves their animals and will carefully screen buyers. They will allow you to come onsite and see where the dogs live and how they care for them. You should be able to meet both of the parents. If the breeder will only meet you offsite and will not let you see the facilities or meet the puppy’s parents, this is not a responsible breeder.
Do your research
Please be careful when purchasing a pet through a website. Puppy mill operators can create beautiful websites to make you feel like you are purchasing your pet from a responsible and kind place. Please make sure that you can visit the puppy and the facility first.
Support our efforts
Tell your friends and family about The Puppy Project and share your knowledge about puppy mills. If your friend, or a member of your family is planning to buy a puppy, please share the information on our website and encourage them to consider adopting from a rescue or shelter.
Help us spread the word to local schools.
Donate online at thepuppyproject.org
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