The term “puppy mill” does not describe a building or structure as much as it defines the breeding and conditions of the dog’s housing and care. A basic definition is: “An unlicensed, non-inspected facility that operated below minimum standards set forth by the US Department of Agriculture (USDA).” A puppy mill can operate in a person’s basement or garage and is not limited by the number of dogs or types of breeds.
Puppy mills are by definition hazardous to the puppies and dogs health due to their total lack of veterinary care and supervision. Unlike professional breeders, puppy mill owners and operators are not educated on the husbandry and feeding procedures for their dogs.
Professional breeders are quick to observe and even test their breeding adults to reduce the degree or likelihood of congenital defects in their puppies. Professional breeders also register their litters with canine registries that tract and permanently log in the databases any congenital defects that may arise in their puppies. Puppy mills do not follow these important and potentially life saving procedures.
When buying your next puppy, go to a professional who offers a guarantee with the puppies they sell. Remember, a puppy mill may be in a state far away from you - or might just right next door to you - shown by the cardboard sign saying “puppies for sale.”
