How are dog auctions perpetuating the problem of homeless pets in this state?
Mary: The sad truth behind the dog auctions is that there often lies a puppy mill. The documented problems of these mass breeding facilities include over breeding, inbreeding, minimal veterinary care, poor quality of food and shelter, lack of socialization with humans, overcrowded cages, and the killing of unwanted animals. Consumer demand for purebred puppies, more than any other factor, perpetuates the misery of puppy mills. Unfortunately, a dog’s lifespan is often longer than a consumer’s desire to maintain their “product.” As a result, millions of purebred dogs are sent to animal shelters every year, where roughly half will be euthanized. Q. What can we do about dog auctions? Mary: It is my firm belief that until the public truly understands and appreciates the cruel aspect—not to mention the consumer fraud—connected with “dealing dogs,” dog auctions will continue to generate millions of dollars for puppy mill breeders and their distributors. Q. What advice do you have for those wa
