For kids:

WHAT IS A PUPPY MILL?

A puppy mill is a place where dogs are not kept as pets - their owners only want them so they can have puppies.

These puppies are sold so that the owners can make money, and often they don't take very good care of the dogs or puppies.

A lot of times, the owners won't even spend money on good food, or veterinary care. But worst of all, the dogs and puppies are not loved. Since we know animals have feelings, it must be very sad and lonely for a dog to be in a puppy mill.

What can you do to stop puppy mills?

There are lots of things that kids can to to help stop puppy mills:

1. If your family is looking for a new pet, tell your mom and dad about puppy mills. Let them know that there are lots of GOOD places to get dogs. These places include rescues, animal shelters and good breeders.

Rescues and animal shelters have all kinds of dogs who really need a family to love them. Good breeders love their dogs, and take really good care of them. If your parents want a purebred puppy, tell them to visit the breeder and to make sure the breeder is treating their dogs like loved members of their family!

2. Only shop at pet stores that don't sell puppies or kittens. This will let the stores know that they shouldn't be selling puppies or kittens because your money will only be spent at stores that don't sell them. It is better to spend your money at stores that help rescues and animal shelters adopt their animals, or those that just sell pet supplies.

3. Write a letter to your Member of Parliament, asking him/her to help pass a law to stop puppy mills. Ask your mom or dad to help you find their address. Or, color one of our pictures to send to your MP, to let them know how you feel.

4. Tell all of your friends about puppy mills. Ask them to help you stop puppy mills, by doing the same things you are doing!

From the site No Puppy Mills, Canada
http://www.nopuppymillscanada.ca/kids.htm

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