Dogs that are bred in Puppy Mills are often kept in crowded and unsanitary cages. They are often exposed to harsh winters and sweltering summers. They aren't given a proper amount of food or water, or veterinary care. The female dogs are forced to breed every time they are in heat until their death. The puppies are weaned much before the eight to ten week recommendation.

Puppies that come from Puppy Mills may come with a pedigree, but pedigrees are often faked because most times, the dogs are bred without care or selectivity. Some of the puppies may not even be purebred.

The puppies tend to have issues with socializing properly with humans and other animals. The puppies are transported over long distances in poor conditions which many of the dogs don't survive.

Many people believe that when a people stop buying puppies in pet stores, Puppy Mills will be forced to shut down. The Humane Society of America strongly encourages dog buyers to adopt from their local shelter.

1. Most pet store puppies come from Puppy Mills
2. Originated in the post-World War II era
3. Thousands located throughout the United States
4. Kept in harsh conditions
5. Female dogs are bred over and over again
6. Pedigrees may be fakes
7. To boycott Puppy Mills, don't buy from pet shops, adopt a dog at your local pound or shelter