Democrats in 2008: Re: [Dems2008] OT: Puppy Mills

Thanks Cat--and thanks to Oprah. I have been to puppy mills to rescue dogs.

Believe me it is a sight one will never forget. One of my Chihuahua's is a

rescue from a puppy mill and she is the dearest little dog that ever lived.

Five years ago when I first got her she was close to death today she is

a happy healthy 14 year old.--------------Nan

BE PRETTY IF YOU CAN, BE WITTY IF YOU MUST, BE
ATTRACTIVE IF IT KILLS YOU:-------Elsie de Wolfe

Oprah had a show on this topic last week that was painfully informative, so I'm passing along an "action" email from the Humane Society for those who may be interested. I thought I was pretty well-informed on these issues, but I was suprised to learn that a lot of these puppy mills are run by the Amish. Another case of biblical interpretation taken to extreme - they view animals as "things" to have dominion over.

Number 1 - Don't buy from pet stores! 99% come from puppy mills. Please feel free to pass this along.

Take Action Against Puppy Mills

Fight against those who put profits ahead of compassion. Help us bring an end to puppy mills.

Dear Cathy,

Today, "The Oprah Winfrey Show" aired an exposé on puppy mills that no doubt horrified everyone who watched.

Undercover footage showed dogs in filthy, overcrowded conditions, where they are confined for their entire lives, without human companionship or adequate veterinary care. These dogs are often killed once their reproductive capacity wanes.

The HSUS has been investigating and fighting against puppy mills for decades. With your help, we can advance our fight to stop puppy mills and the tragic consequences of pet overpopulation. Join us by signing the Stop Puppy Mills pledge.

Here's what else you can do right now:

If you are thinking of bringing a new dog into the family, or know someone who is, request a free copy of our puppy buyer's guide for information on how to find reputable breeders, shelters, and rescue groups.
Ask your federal legislators to crack down on puppy mills.
Get the word out about puppy mills: write a letter to the editor of your local newspaper. Visit StopPuppyMills.org to educate yourself.
Download one of our Stop Puppy Mills campaign badges or banners to your own MySpace or Facebook page, blog, or website.
Did you adopt your canine companion from a rescue group or shelter? Then order our Proud to Adopt care package.
Download Puppy Mill Cruelty flyers and post them or give them out at your neighborhood dog park, to engage fellow dog owners and help spread the word.
Help us place advertisements and billboards to spread the word about puppy mill cruelty.
The puppy mill industry will thrive as long as consumers are kept in the dark about the "mass production" of purebred and designer dogs. With your help, we'll shed light on the cruelty of puppy mills and put them out of business for good. We can't do it without your help!

Thank you for your commitment to stopping puppy mills and for all that you do for animals.

Sincerely,

Wayne Pacelle
President & CEO
The Humane Society of the United States