To the editor:
Over the last few months, many have taken on the opportunity to welcome a new, furry member to the family. As an animal lover, I gushed over the many reports of local shelters saying that they have had a record high of fostered and adopted pets during this time, but was shocked by all those who chose to purchase this new member of the family from a breeder.
Like many, I spent most of my life unaware of the issues associated with purchasing your pet from a breeder. It wasn’t until I started working in Marion county that I learned of the sheer number of animals surrendered or rescued throughout the county. After which, I pledged to never purchase another animal from a breeder.
The Humane Society of the United States is on the front lines fighting for animals and their well-being. Each year, they release the Horrible Hundred report, a document that describes known puppy mills and their horrific conditions. Some dogs go without food and water; some are suffering from injuries and illness without medical treatment. This year, five Indiana dog breeders made the list.
The American Kennel Club, typically associated with quality, had a connection with 30% of the puppy mills in this year’s report. Being an AKC breeder does not ensure that these animals are well-treated, loved and disease-free. Many AKC-registered breeders documented in this report sold sick puppies, killed puppies they couldn’t sell and refused to vaccinate.
With that being said, if you are interested in welcoming a new four-legged member of the family, please consider adopting from a local shelter. Indianapolis is home to many reputable shelters such as Indy Humane, Animal Care Services and more.
Visit to humanesociety.org/100puppymills to view the full report.
Rachel Pope
Greenfield
