Puppy Mills
PAWS opposes “puppy mills,” facilities and individuals who mass-produce puppies to sell them on side walk, to produce them for the pet shop industry, for Internet sales, or for other retail purposes.
Puppy mills suffer from poor oversight, control, and regulation. Ill health, genetic defects and/or negative behavior traits are often overlooked in favor of financial profit. The dogs used for breeding purposes are often insufficiently cared for, inhumanely housed, and lacking adequate veterinary care.
Retail Sale of Pets
PAWS advocates the adoption of animals from an animal shelter versus the purchase of an animal from a breeder or a pet shop. Pet shops are the primary customers of puppy mills. If the individual chooses to buy a specific breed of dog, we encourage him to seek out reputable breeders dedicated to improving the health, condition and behavior of their animals.