Doodle in a pet store

[Karen & Maple]

So I've been looking for an obedience class for both my husband and myself to bring our 4 month old to. We've been challenged to find one that fits our schedule. While I wasn't to happy about where this class was being held (Puppy Express), the trainer seemed good (retired cop K-9 trainer). I didn't want to delay any more on getting started, especially with socialization. His company is independent and he holds the class at different locations each night in the area. I've never been in this place, only snarled every time I drove by, assuming they sell puppy mill pups. Thursdays work best for us,it very close to our house, so I agreed. Anyways sure enough, we went tonight, and find a 6 month old Doodle in one the glass pens. He's obviously a standard who barely fits in the cage. And while I'm not happy about any of the puppies being in this store, this really bothered us. He was much older and bigger than the other puppies. I asked the trainer if he knew where these puppies come from. He said to the best of his knowledge they are not from mills. Most where AKC certified. I was pleasantly surprised to find the store was clean, and I did like that they carry high quality holistic food (such as the ones on our list). But still, something didn't smell right. Not sure if there's anything that can be done. Not sure of the arrangement this trainer has with this store. I hope we're not supporting mills in some way.

[Texas Doodle Mom and Molly Rose]

I can see why you would be nervous about attending classes there and supporting something such as a puppy mill. My heart breaks for the dogs who end up in terrible conditions - all for money :(. I'm feeling guilty enough for not "rescuing" a dog from a shelter, but very carefully selected the breeder for our doodle. Just wanted to send you positive thoughts -- let us know what you uncover there. Karen has a good point about being exposed to diseases while there.

[Karen, Jasper and Jackdoodle]

Information about where pet store puppies really come from:

http://www.petshoppuppies.org/pspstore.htm

[Karen, Jasper and Jackdoodle]

More info on where pet store puppies come from: 

http://www.prisonersofgreed.org/Broker.html

[Karen, Jasper and Jackdoodle]

And yet more information about where pet store puppies come from: 

http://nopetstorepuppies.com/puppy-mills-are-cruel

[Stephanie and Ragley]

I see what you are aiming at, Rose, but you are talking about ONE store owner and ONE litter of puppies and using that as an example to condone the practice of selling pet store puppies nationwide. You cannot apply your ONE friend's ONE litter that was sold to ONE store and have that be used to say that sales of puppies in pet stores (in which THOUSANDS of puppies are from puppy mills and other irreputable sources) should still exist. It is more than ungracious to all of those poor puppy mill parent dogs and puppies NATIONWIDE for you to still be arguing in favor of this practice, IMO.

[Karen, Jasper and Jackdoodle]

Amen. 

[Stephanie and Ragley]

I guess Karen and I have differing definitions of what it means to love animals than you do. I know plenty of pet store clerks here who know Ragley and I by name and greet her at the door and give her treats. We share stories about our pets' recent antics and discuss things such as recent training successes and pitfalls as I shop for a new treat formula or brand and she gets loved on by all her favorite pet store people. These people LOVE pets. They are all crazy pet people and I love the store for it. They would never dream of selling animals of any kind (we'll go ahead and lump the birds and hamsters in there) in that store. Loving an animal is keeping it warm and safe and dry in the comfort of a home with its mother and/or people caring for it. Loving that litter of puppies is knowing who is taking them home and will be caring for them for the rest of that puppy's life. Loving that litter of puppies is knowing that when they leave your possession they will NOT be subjected to endless hours in a wire cage as they wander in their own urine and feces, but rather will be cozy and warm cuddled up on someone's lap.
These are my opinions and I stand by them. And please no backlash for the "that litter" as it was not intended as a reference to or insult to your friend.

[Cheryl and Finnegan]

Well said, Stephanie.

[Karen, Jasper and Jackdoodle]

http://friendsofanimals.org/programs/domesticated-and-feral-animals...

[Nicky, Riley & Boris]

It is a disgusting practice to sell puppies in pet stores and anyone who advocates for it or excuses it should be ashamed of themselves. The facts are clear. It is people like Rose whether wittingly or through ignorance that helps this heinous business continue. Shame on you.

To go back to the original post. I would not attend classes in this place. If the trainer is knowledgeable and caring he would not hold classes there. Surely he could find another place. The truth is probably that he has an arrangement with this business, either he rents the space or there is some kickback for the store. Whatever it is, who would want to do business that trades in Puppy Mill puppies? I would challenge him on the subject and let him know your thoughts and find another trainer. PS Of course that is my opinion and you must do what you believe is best for you. 

[Karen & Maple]

I know in my gut where those puppies came from. I makes me sick. I would never even purchase goods from such a place. The trainer was an older gentleman, who in my opinion does care for, or dare I say, loves dogs. Couldn't stop talking about how much time and effort he spends with his 4 dogs-his family. And how much we need to realize this is a commitment, and how important training is. He may just be ignorant. I'm sure he may have an 'arrangement' with the store. However most of his classes on other nights are held at facilities. In Lynn, there are none. That's why I'll be traveling in a few weeks to another location. As I mentioned, I was very surprised to see that store and it's dogs looked clean. That's not condoning, but in my mind I expected, a nasty place. There was a Chihuahua there that had never been exposed as a puppy to situations and dogs. She was a mess. The trainer used this as an example. And that's why we were there. Now that Maple has all her shots, we have been venturing into the cold, to the beach where there are lots of dogs. I live in the city, in a neighborhood where there's not a square inch that's not contaminated by other dogs and yuck. But its time to get out with Maple. She 4+ months. While we already have basic commands down at home, she needs exposure. I know, I know find someplace else. But I will say that overall the exposure there last night wasn't bad. The other dogs and their owners were great. There were children that wanted to greet the puppy. Lots of birds chirping, carriage wheels squeeling etc. She even overcame her fear of the super scary chihuahua.

I believe reasonable conversation and sharing of facts is good. But, I didn't mean for this to be a discussion in which other DK member's love for dogs is questioned.

So of course, I somewhat regret going there, but it wasn't all bad. I will consider all this before next week. Thanks for the input.

[Rosemary (Ro) and Enzo]

Well put, Nicky! And I believe you have stated exactly what many of us believe. Thank you. As it is my opinion, as well.