Puppy mill (known as a puppy farm in the UK and Australia) is a common term used to describe large scale dog breeding operations. The term originated among critics of these operations. Small-scale puppy farming is usually called backyard breeding.
Critics argue that puppy mill operators ignore duties that are standard among responsible dog breeders - raising dogs in humane conditions, providing good socialization and formal training, and screening potential dog owners for suitability. Critics say that these "puppy farmers" are motivated only by profit rather than a commitment to the breed standard or any empathy for the animals in their care. It must be pointed out, however, that some excellent breeders run profitable large-scale operations with knowledgeable staff and superlative veterinary care, so size and motive alone are not indicative of the quality of the breeding program.
Puppy mill dogs may live in overcrowded, inhumane conditions, are poorly socialized, receive no training and often suffer from medical afflictions that are not disclosed to potential buyers. It is not uncommon for these breeders to misrepresent the breed of dog being sold, and the vast majority of these animals are sold to pet stores.
Purchasing dogs from a pet store is therefore strongly discouraged by reputable breeders and animal shelter employees alike; it is assumed that many animal shelter dogs are pet store dogs who were purchased on impulse and abandoned when the owner lost interest. While many pet stores claim to purchase dogs from "local breeders" instead of puppy mills, this is often untrue or is a difference in name only, as reputable breeders generally do not sell animals to pet stores. Thanks Wikipedia
Below you'll find pictures of what a puppy mill looks like, and what these poor animals go through. The pain and suffering doesnt end....until they die! Each picture opens in a new window for larger viewing.
