National Puppy Mill Survivor Day, observed every year on September 30, is dedicated to recognizing the resilience and courage of dogs who have been rescued from puppy mills and found loving homes. This day is an opportunity to raise awareness about the harsh realities of puppy mills and to celebrate the survivors who have overcome so much to become cherished family members.
This awareness day was created in 2021 by Bailing Out Benji, an Iowa-based non-profit dedicated to ending puppy mills.
Is that Dog from a Puppy Mill?
If you’re looking at a dog for sale in a pet store (not a dog whose shelter or rescue is having an adoption day in the store), it’s essential to be aware of signs that might indicate the dog is from a puppy mill. One red flag is a lack of transparency from the pet store about the dog’s origins. Reputable breeders are proud to share information about their breeding practices, the puppy’s parents, and the living conditions where the puppies were raised–and don’t sell the puppies through pet stores. If a pet store is unwilling or unable to provide detailed information about where their puppies come from, including breeder details and health records, this could be a sign that the dog is from a puppy mill.
Puppy mills also often use online platforms to sell their puppies because it allows them to reach a wide audience without revealing the poor conditions in which the dogs were bred. These online listings can be misleading, with sellers often providing little to no information about the dog’s origins, health, or living conditions.
Puppy mills may create attractive websites or ads with photos of clean, happy puppies, but these images often don’t reflect the reality of the dogs’ upbringing.
Additionally, online sellers may offer to ship puppies directly to buyers, which can be another red flag. Without seeing where the puppies were raised or meeting the breeder in person, it’s difficult for buyers to assess the true conditions and ethical practices behind the breeding operation. To avoid supporting puppy mills, it’s crucial to research breeders thoroughly, visit the premises if possible, or consider adopting from reputable shelters and rescues instead!
10 Things to Know About Dogs Rescued from Puppy Mills
Related pet holiday: Puppy Mill Awareness Day
- Severe Neglect: Dogs rescued from puppy mills often suffer from severe neglect. They may have lived in filthy, cramped conditions with little to no veterinary care, resulting in a range of health issues.
- Physical Health Challenges: Many puppy mill survivors have untreated medical conditions, including infections, malnutrition, dental disease, and parasites. It’s essential to provide them with immediate and ongoing veterinary care after rescue.
- Emotional Trauma: The emotional scars from a puppy mill can run deep. Dogs may have experienced little to no human interaction, leading to fear, anxiety, and trust issues. Patience and gentle care are crucial for helping them adjust to their new lives.
- Socialization Gaps: Due to isolation in puppy mills, these dogs often lack basic socialization skills. They may be fearful of common household sounds, other pets, or new people. Gradual exposure and positive reinforcement are key to helping them acclimate.
- House Training: Many puppy mill dogs have never been outside of a cage or crate, so they may not be house-trained. Consistent, gentle training is necessary to help them learn where and when to go to the bathroom.
- Lack of Basic Commands: Puppy mill survivors typically haven’t been taught basic commands like “sit” or “stay.” Training should begin slowly and with positive reinforcement, focusing on building trust and confidence.
- Tendency to Bond Strongly: Once they start to feel safe, puppy mill survivors often form incredibly strong bonds with their new owners. Their loyalty and gratitude can be deeply rewarding for those who adopt them.
- Need for Gradual Introduction: These dogs often benefit from a gradual introduction to their new environment. Start by giving them a quiet, safe space to retreat to when they feel overwhelmed, and slowly expand their access to other areas of the home.
- Potential for Behavioral Issues: Due to their past experiences, puppy mill dogs may exhibit behaviors like excessive barking, chewing, or pacing. Understanding these behaviors as coping mechanisms can help guide effective, compassionate training strategies.
- Incredible Resilience: Despite everything they’ve been through, many puppy mill survivors go on to live happy, fulfilling lives. With love, patience, and care, these dogs can thrive and become cherished members of their new families.
National Puppy Mill Survivor Day is a day to honor the strength and resilience of dogs who have survived the horrors of puppy mills and to celebrate the new lives they’ve found. It’s also a day to raise awareness about the ongoing issue of puppy mills and to encourage adoption from shelters and rescues!