Although difficult to precisely define, most puppy mills are large-scale, low-overhead breeding operations where profits are given priority over the welfare of the animals. Nearly all pet store dogs come from puppy mills. These puppies are covered under the Animal Welfare Act but its standards provide only minimum survival conditions for these animals and enforcement is sorely lacking. Also, these protections only apply to puppy wholesalers, not to the considerable number of facilities selling online or directly to the public. Only about half our states have laws to protect against puppy mill abuse and cruelty. These animals often live in cramped, unsanitary cages without veterinary care, climate control or daily exercise - all the while being forced to produce as many offspring as possible.

In an effort to reduce the number animals that are bred and abused in puppy mills and other mass breeding centers, New York has recently banned the sale of dogs, cats and rabbits in retail pet stores throughout the state. Animal activists, which have long been calling for such a ban, hope other states will follow New York’s lead.

Proposed Legislation: S.3519 - Puppy Uniform Protection and Safety Act (110th Congress 2007-2008)
Prospective Sponsor: Sen. Richard Durbin (IL)