“Our lives begin to end when we become silent about things that matter.” — Martin Luther King Jr.
Last year, I went with a friend to Squaw Creek Kennel in Barnes City to purchase a puppy she had seen online.
As I got out of the car, I realized in horror that we were at a puppy mill. There were row after row of chicken coop structures with small wire cages filled with one or more dogs.
These cages had plastic sides and wire bottoms full of excrement, offering no protection from the elements. These cages, as well as their food and water dishes, were filthy with dirt and excrement. Most of these dogs are used for breeding and inbreeding purposes and once they are no longer useful, they are disposed of. Only a few ever have proper veterinary care and after sold can be very costly to the consumer.
Needless to say, Puppy Mills are an “evil epidemic” that mar the beauty and reputation of our state.
So, what can be done? In this crucial time of elections in Iowa, we need to vote for candidates that advocate for dogs and will strive to get laws passed that make stricter regulations for licensure and renewal and will punish them severely for not complying.
We need to stop the life of man’s best friend from being forsaken in the name of profit. Also stop purchasing dogs off the internet other than at Petfinder.com. Instead, rescue from shelters, special rescues, or Humane Societies. Most Pet Stores sell dogs that came from Puppy Mills. If purchasing any dog, ask questions about where they came from, proof of parenting, etc. If there are any Red Flags, beware and leave.
Adopt, don’t shop.
Mary Masterson
Eldridge