Pet Store Visits...

[Lindsey, Lee, Whopper and Simba]

I am truly hoping that this does not stir up any major controversy or arguments but I am truly curious. I have an extreme amount of sympathy for the animals that end up there. As a result, whenever in a mall with a pet store, I like to go in, pick a puppy or two, most often ones that don't appear to draw the most attention, and pretend that I'm interested. I try to spend 10-15 minutes at least just handling and giving it affection. I know that these puppies are in crates and their handling is so limited that it is my belief that any attention and affection is a positive thing. I do also go to shelters and visit with dogs as well but I am wondering, does entering these pet stores further their cause in any way? My heart breaks for the 8 week old puppy not getting socialized and just thought I'd get other people's opinions on visiting pet store puppies.

[Karen, Jasper and Jackdoodle]

If there is any doubt in anyone's mind about where those pet store puppies come from, please take a look at this link. The video will break your heart and open your eyes. This is what you condemn a dog to when you patronize pet stores:

http://fortheloveofthedogblog.com/news-updates/more-on-kathy-bauck-...

[Stella]

When I moved to Canada I was appalled to see pet stores in malls selling puppies. It has been illegal for many years back home (England) for pet stores to sell puppies, kittens etc. Going in and giving a pet store puppy some love can't be a bad thing. But, the most important thing is stopping people from buying animals there. If no one buys a puppy in a pet store there is no demand there and the number of puppy mills will drop as they will have lost one of the main outlets for their "product".