Advocate for the end of puppy mills

Last year, I went with a friend to purchase a puppy she had seen online. As we got out of the car, I realized we were at a puppy mill. There were row after row of chicken coop structures with small, crowded wire cages offering little protection from the elements. The cages were filthy with dirt and excrement.

I later found out that 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, when sold, can be very costly to the consumer.

We need to stop the practice of man's best friend being forsaken in the name of profit. During elections, we must support candidates and advocates for dogs who will work to pass new laws with stricter regulations for licensure and renewal.

And we need to punish the offenders.

The bottom line: Adopt. Don't shop. Rescue from an animal shelter or a humane society.

Mary Masterson

Eldridge