Great!

I hope to see them EVERYWHERE!

Posted by: Susan T | September 11, 2007 04:13 PM

Great Ad! And sooo true! THere was a big scandal in our hometown papers a few weeks ago about a man who owned a pet shop donating food to the local shelter and they refused due to conflict of interest. There was a huge uproar on both sides of the fence, a lot of people agreeing that someone owning a petshop HAS to be using puppy milled dogs because no "respectable" breeder(if there are any) would ever sell their dogs to a two bit animal shop. You should look it up PETA. Sarnia Observer Ontario, it was huge, but the shelter got lots of back up from concerned citizens. Let me tell you though, it sparked debate! My dog is from a shelter and is the best dog EVER~

Posted by: Courtney | September 11, 2007 04:38 PM

YESSS!!! I love them! My dogs would probablly not be alive today if we hadn't picked them up.

Posted by: Hannah | September 11, 2007 05:02 PM

That is such an awesome billboard!!

I completely agree: There is no such thing as a responsible breeders.

I find that this is a topic that people are more open minded about. It is easy to spread the word about breeders.

Good job Peta!!!

:o)

Posted by: Jaclyn | September 11, 2007 05:43 PM

How do I get one in my town.

Posted by: MIKE | September 11, 2007 05:50 PM

Of course, the real villains here are the breeders themselves.

NOT TRUE!!

responible breeders are awesome people who LOVE their dogs! Also they hardly make any money-most lose alot by breeding dogs, they just love their dogs and their breed so much they don't care about the money. Also alot of breeders help breed resuces and shelters, SO STOP PICKING ON DOGS BREEDERS!!!

Posted by: Diad Hisea | September 11, 2007 06:38 PM

if you wnat a purebred go to a rescue mines from boxerrescue.com and hes a great dog and purebred

Posted by: Anonymous | September 11, 2007 06:44 PM

People who deliberately breed animals for profit are scum. Every bit as bad are people who do not have their animals spayed or neutered. We must work to have MANDATORY spay/neuter laws adopted nationwide.

Posted by: Kelley | September 11, 2007 07:42 PM

i think the billboard is rather vague -- exactly which breeders are they speaking of?? I know the difference between puppy mill and properly run dog kennel - but this board doesnt make an effort to reveal that distinction.

Posted by: stasya berber | September 11, 2007 08:04 PM

Thank you soooooo much for this topic. I work at a vet clinic & I'm really sick of people constantly coming in with puppies from breeders. People don't realize that this billboard is SO true!!!

Posted by: Kim | September 11, 2007 08:22 PM

I have worked at the local animal shelter for years. The number of homeless animals ending up in shelters is staggering. Worse, the numbers are increasing. Part of the cause of the overcrowding in animal shelters is because of irresponsible breeders. One of my responsibilities was to follow the veterinarian as she did her rounds, and to bag the dead animals that had to be euthanized. For every puppy or kitten that is born, it is a death sentance for another loving, deserving animal because that is one less home available to them. All of my four legged roomates are rescue animals and I wouldn't have it any other way.

Posted by: pamela lawhead | September 11, 2007 10:57 PM

You people are idiots. To not aknkowledge the difference between puppy mills, backyard breeders and responsible hobby breeders shows your ignorance. The sad fact is that the reason why so many people are so turned off by PETA is this black and white approach to very complex issues.

Posted by: Mike | September 11, 2007 11:13 PM

But what about people who want or need certain breeds of dogs. Have you ever tried to find a well bread hunting dog in a shelter?

Posted by: Aaron Bevard | September 12, 2007 12:38 AM

I come from a dog breeder background. I belonged to the AKC and was active in a breed club. I personally know some of the most "reputable" breeders and show people and fanciers and show judges in this country.

You would throw up if you knew what these people supported.

Don't let the liars like above Diad Hisea EVER convince you that the so-called "responsible" breeders are that. A few are, but too many support the puppy mills, fight against breeder licensing and inspections, oppose mandatory spay neuter, fight against any kind of humane law that could make life better for dogs and reduce suffering.

Why? MONEY. Don't let these liars convince you they "don't make money" or "they lose money." That is a con! They damn well make plenty of money, and it is unreported and UNTAXED! That is why they oppose licensing & inspections. They want to keep hiding their lucative businesses.

They sell dogs UNSPAYED and UNNEUTERED, with a flimsy altering contract that is completely unenforceable. Why? They don't want to reduce profits by altering first.

The AKC lobbies for puppy mill interests because the AKC now makes the majority of its income from puppy mill registrations. All that blood money pays for a lot of breed club activities, dog shows, etc

And the dogs of so-called "reputable" breeders ARE getting dumped, ARE getting used in backyard breeding businesses, ARE getting abused.

Too many "reputable" don't love their dogs. They LOVE MONEY.

They believe that dogs are property, and that property owners may do whatever they wish with their property. Anything. Including beat, starve, kill, abuse dogs.

These so-called "reputable" breeders hate the humane world. Some of them have set up sideline groups and focus on harassing shelters, shutting down adoption programs, smearing people involved in the humane world, attacking humane societies and rescues.

I have been present at hate meetings and in hate forums run by some of the best known "reputable" breeders that plot smear attacks against humane campaigns, plan and plot false complaints and lies about shelters and rescues and people involved in rescue, try to get people in the humane world declared "terrorists."

Where they declare that "inferior mutts" should be killed.

The "reputable" breeding world is a selfish cesspool. And it needs to be cleaned up.

If anyone wants to find these supporters of cruelty, look to your state legislative liasions, breed clubs (not all but many,) "responsible" dog owner groups (code for BREEDER,) federations of whatever, dog law or pet law groups or forums, and other alliances of breeders

That's where they hide out, spreading slime and supporting abuse and cruelty.

And madly protecting profits and often-illegal businesses.

The "reputable" dog breeding world is one of the biggest cons around.

It's time to expose this.

Posted by: kelly | September 12, 2007 12:45 AM

And the number one thing you can do in your community and state is to get laws passed that require licensing and inspections and rules for dog breeders.

That is the only way to deal with the puppy millers and dog fighter breeders.

A truly reputable breeder would be PROUD to be licensed and inspected. They don't want to hide!

And when the AKCers and so-called "reputable" breeders come out of the woodwork to whine and complain and oppose breeder licensing, EXPOSE their profit interests, their unlicensed hidden businesses, their tax fraud.

It is time for breeders to follow rules just like other businesses do, and that includes the "hobbyists" who aren't hobbyists at all! This is all about the business. The money.

And it is time to point out the relationship between the AKC and the puppy mills.

The AKC is lobbying FOR the puppy mills, and lobbying to keep puppy mills unregulated and unlicensed. Secret, hidden, underground, off-the-books hells.

Posted by: kelly | September 12, 2007 12:55 AM

Awesome! I completely support buying animals from shelters and rescuing them (all my cats are rescued from the streets by myself), I have a slight question.. What about the animals at the pet store though? They need homes too.

Posted by: kitty | September 12, 2007 01:09 AM

I find the topic negative and misguided. The ad "looks" like a soundbite, created to stir up emotions and not develop a reasonable train of thought. I agree, Puppy mills are dangerous; however, dedicated, professional breeders provide a service to the whole dog community.

I think PETA efforts should be placed where the damage is created: on pet owners who do not act responsibly regarding the care of the animals entrusted to them.

Posted by: henry d. bliley | September 12, 2007 01:15 AM

Shining a light on this topic is crucial. Even though I've been active defending animals since 1971, I didn't know about this angle of dog "breeding" a la Mike Vick. True, not all are in the same $ scheme. Some may love their animals BUT the bottom line IS...they are sending other animals to their DEATH which in a sense is animal murder. A well kept secret to the outside world. Kelly really hit home with her letter. Thank goodness she went there and was able to shed light on this quasi illegitimate organisation. PETA knows what needs to be done. They are a beacon for the animal world.

Posted by: daylight 365 | September 12, 2007 03:43 AM

NOT ONE breeder I know makes any profit from the sale of their puppies. I was $2000 in the hole after the last litter I bred to keep alive the 6000 year old heritage of my wonderful breed.

NOT ONE person who has ever gotten a puppy from me is ever going to adopt a pit or chihuahua mix from the pound instead (even though most of them have rescued many animals in the past.) And they usually have to wait 3 to 5 years to get a puppy from me. And I'm a totally typical breeder.

PETA, you keep making these ignorant statements demonizing breeders and you keep promoting MSN (mandatory spay/neuter) laws which, statistics have shown, always end up with more, not fewer, animals being euthanized. (Counter-intuitive, I know, but the irresponsible people who dump animals dump them even faster when faced with fines.) Your rhetoric and lobbying has gotten lots of people angry and threatened enough to start spending a lot of time and money to get the truth out to the American public, time and money that would be much better spent into turning this into a No Kill nation.

I'll be very interested to see if you have the guts to approve this message. The sad thing is that all the breeders I know also do rescue (I've rescued far more animals than I have ever bred) and we all could do so much more good if we'd work together.

Posted by: Geraldine Clarke | September 12, 2007 05:23 AM

It's amazing how many people are reading this blog and still don't get it. No wonder the general population doesn't get it. Looking past the perhaps 0.5% of breed dogs used for a specific reason (like hunting which is a whole different topic) almost all breed dogs are there for no other reason than being a pet. All of these owners could have been just as happy with a pet from a shelter but think they need these pure breeds to fit in with the other preppy pet families. That's the point, all breeders are breeding unneeded animals causing others to die.

Posted by: Amanda | September 12, 2007 07:37 AM

OK. So when all the breeders are gone, where will the pets come from? Where do you think most police, search and rescue and military dogs come from? Breeders are not the problem. There is no "pet overpopulation" Please refer to the basic principles of supply and demand. Shelters should do better jobs of getting their dogs adopted and educating owners.

Posted by: brandi | September 12, 2007 07:50 AM

Its not the breeders who kill the shelter dogs chances it is people who don't spay or neuter their pets and allow unwanted litters to be produced. That's the problem. Look at the numbers folks, they don't lie, the real numbers of what cause the problems are the unspayed/nuetered animals making more babies.

Posted by: DK | September 12, 2007 08:20 AM

Its not the breeders who kill the shelter dogs chances it is people who don't spay or neuter their pets and allow unwanted litters to be produced. That's the problem. Look at the numbers folks, they don't lie, the real numbers of what cause the problems are the unspayed/nuetered animals making more babies.

Posted by: DK | September 12, 2007 08:20 AM

I continue to support our local SPCA, which gets NO support from HSUSA or PETA, or any other national "humane" organization. They take animals from our local shelters, alter them and vet them and then find good homes for them. When PETA and HSUSA step up to the plate and stop haranging responsible hobby breeders, and physically help to reduce the random breeding by BYB and irresponsible pet owners, I will support them. Giving up my freedom to breed a very few healthy tested pups a year, which I pay taxes on, BTW, would make me and their new owners very unhappy. Not everyone wants someone elses castoff pets, which are the ones who end up in the shelters.

Posted by: Bonnie Hale | September 12, 2007 08:43 AM

You people are idiots. You won't be happy until there are no pets let in the world. I don't want to live in a world where I can't have a dog. But of course this is what you want too. No more people either....?

Posted by: Gina | September 12, 2007 09:24 AM

" I belonged to the AKC and was active in a breed club."

You are a liar...people do NOT belong to the AKC: it's a club of clubs. The fact that you said that indicates that you're just trying to make trouble for real animal people.

Posted by: Dog Person | September 12, 2007 09:26 AM

"We must work to have MANDATORY spay/neuter laws adopted nationwide."

People who say things like that, don't stop to think about where their pets will come from. There are many people like myself, who own dogs from breeders. I have owned dogs from breeders for almost 20 years. I usually spay or neuter my dogs when they're middle aged and yet I've never had a litter. Responsible owners can easily keep their intact pets from having puppies: it really isn't that hard.

When laws like that are passed, people like me will be forced to obey them. But the real problem people, the people who do not fence in and otherwise control their pets will still be producing puppies.

Educate, don't legislate. It's going to accomplish more.

Posted by: Dog Person | September 12, 2007 09:30 AM

One question. In your "perfect world", once all the breeders are gone, and all the other dogs are spayed/neutered because of mandatory laws, where is the next generation of dogs going to come from???
In 10 or 15 years, there would not be a single purebred dog in existence with no breeders of any kind left. And there would be no more shelter dogs of any kind either. As there would be no more intact dogs in this country able to reproduce. So how many of you supporting all these supposed "ideals" are ready to never own a dog again, when that day arrives???? You would be able to sit back and say "what a great day, no more shelters, no more unwanted dogs" but it would also mean the total elimination of domestic dogs of any sort in this country. Which in reality is exactly what PETA's goals are. The elimination of humans owning any domesticated animals. How many of you are ready for that day??
BTW, I am NOT a breeder. I just own two spayed purebred dogs, who have never been bred.
Now, let's see if I even get "approved", so others can read my point of view.

Posted by: Sue | September 12, 2007 09:37 AM

This advertisement is not about puppies mistreated in puppy mills. It's about the fact that every time you buy a dog from a breeder (puppy mill or "reputable") you are condemning a shelter dog to death.

This IS a black and white issue: one dog purchased is one dog NOT rescued.

Posted by: wil | September 12, 2007 09:46 AM

Do not lump all breeders together! I have been in the sport of purebred dogs for over 20 years, and have been involved in rescue for just as long. I worked with the dogs rescued after Katrina,and fostered several. As far as breeding, I have bred only 4 litters in this time. All my homes are prescreened, and puppies sold with extensive contracts. I sell only to responsible owners. No puppy has been altered before leaving, and NOT ONE has had an accidental or on purpose breeding! I take back any puppy at any age for any reason that I have sold. My puppies do NOT end up as a shelter dog needing a home. The puppymillers and pet stores have a business because they sell to the people I won't sell to. It's the owners that fail to take care of their dogs, train them, meet their medical needs, and abandon them that are the problem here. Put the blame were it belongs! On society! If people had to be held accountable for their own pets, and not allowed to dump them on a whim, then no pet would need a shelter, and the demand for pet shop and puppy mill dogs would decrease drastically! Bravo to the rescue groups around the country that never put an animal down just because they are full!!

Posted by: Diane | September 12, 2007 09:53 AM

If you mandate spay/neuter of all dogs there will be NO dogs (most of the cat problems stem from feral cats) hense no pets. I don't think that is what most people want, however PETA does. Show and hobby breeder will be gone, leaving only large corporation breeders (like the Hunte corp) who could afford the large fees for breeding, or puppy mills, the mass breeders. Not a really good option I think.

Posted by: Terri | September 12, 2007 10:36 AM

Notice a common denominator among all the breeders who show up here?

like henry d. bliley

They sure do a lot of fingerpointing. The problem is all "those other guys." The so-called "professional" breeders are magically ok.

Garbage!

The "professional" breeders ARE part of the problem, especially when they oppose any efforts whatsoever to deal with and clean up the puppy mills and dog fighters!

For as long as the "professional" or "reputable" breeders lobby for the interests of the puppy mills and dog fighter breeders, there is NO SUCH THING as "reputable" breeders.

Time to take responsibility, breeders, for the cesspool that you have allowed the dog breeding world to become!

Posted by: kelly | September 12, 2007 10:36 AM

Ah, then there is the hunting dog breeder lobby represented here by Aaron Brevard.

Now THERE is dog abuse in the name of breeding

First of all, hunters are the most backward and ignorant souls around when it comes to dogs.

They cling to a ridiculous OLD WIVES TALE that good hunting dogs can't be altered. Stupid or what? The exact opposite is true, but this country bumpkin myth means that thousands upon thousands of unwanted puppies get dumped into the world every year.

(Have you ever seen that Tractor Supply ad that suggests to the bumpkins that maybe they should fence their unspayed hunting dog? There's an indicator of this kind of backwards mentality)

Then, every year, massive numbers of hunting dogs are bred (much like fighting dogs) to serve as tools and income for hunters.

Problem is, that just like fighting dogs, only a percentage of dogs bred for hunting make the cut. The rest are killed (and not humanely by any vet,) dumped in the woods to starve, or dumped at pounds.

There are countless rescue groups and people trying desperately to save the cast-off "byproducts" of the hunting breeding world.

Living, suffering, dying pups and dogs that are perceived as mere property by weak hunters.

Methods used in much of hunting dog breeding are similar to those used at puppy mills and dog fighting breeders.

Caged, penned, or tethered OUTDOORS for their lives unless they are being "used." Killed inhumanely. Often receiving little to no vet care or treatment.

And the hunters too lobby against any kind of clean-up to the dog breeding world. They want no rules, no licensing, no inspections, no regulations.

They want to do what they want (and that includes not paying taxes on the income, too!)

Posted by: kelly | September 12, 2007 10:54 AM

You know, this is one topic that really bothers me. I am a member of PETA and support the work they do, but this campaign is poorly thought out. People love dogs, there are good breeders out there. All this campaign will do is turn even more people off to the good work PETA is doing. Please understand that breeding is not the problem, problem breeders are the problems. The government should enforce dog breeding liscencing and owning. If breeders and owners were responsible for the lives they help create, we would see a decrease in the number of shelter dogs and especially in the number of poorly trained, aggressive shleter dogs. While I agree that many breeders are ruthless, attacking a class of people is not the answer. Lobby for owner breeder restrictions. That is the only way we can truly make a difference.

Posted by: Frank | September 12, 2007 11:00 AM

I think you are nuts if you believe there is not a difference between puppy mills and responsible breeders. I toyed with the idea of getting a labrador to breed, but I could not find a quality breeder willing to sell me a puppy with anything other than a limited registration (no breeding rights. Most did not give a reason why, but one did. What she said made a lot of sense. here was her response:

I can understand your frustration because it is hard to understand when you are just starting out and it is hard to get started because of that policy, but the breeders aren't actually trying to prevent anyone else from breeding, they are just trying to protect the dogs (mainly the females) that they brought into the world and also to protect the reputation that they have built up in their kennel name.

The majority of people are only interested in a pet, so the limited registration does not interfere with that. The limited registration does prevent those people from suddenly deciding one day that they want to breed their dog "just this once" and then going into it blind and not producing quality puppies or possibly producing puppies with health problems. There is a lot involved with breeding a dog properly, and it is best to learn what makes a good breeder from someone with some experience. The limited registration forces the puppy buyer to go back and talk to the original breeder about their plans. Limited registrations can be converted to full registrations by the original breeder at any time. Some breeders will never give breeding rights. Mainly because they have been lied to by someone or have been burned by the experience in some way. They may have found that one of those full registered puppies wound up in a puppy mill and it left a bad taste in their mouth, so they won't give the breeding rights at all. The problem is that more breeders don't take the time to explain to the newbie why they do the things that they do.

You mentioned the high cost of a puppy with a limited registration. Well, that is the price that is charged for the quality of puppy and what you are getting. The breeder isn't looking at it as they should get more money for a puppy they sell with breeding rights because they aren't selling the puppy as a potential income maker for the new owner. I sell with limited registrations only unless I know the person or they have someone that can vouch for them that I know.

It is a shame, but unfortunately it is usually because of a bad experience, or because they are afraid that the dog will be bred to death that makes breeders not want to give that full registration. The puppies are pricey because of all of the genetic testing that is done and because of the guarantees the breeders give and because of the best of care that the dogs receive and the high stud fees that they pay to breed to the best stud dogs. A good breeder spends a lot of money to produce quality puppies. Puppies that you can feel good about owning. A good breeder also does not charge extra for a full registration. They only give them to people that they are familiar with and know will be responsible with the dog. I don't know any good breeder that will give a full registration unless it is as a co-ownership which means that the original breeder has to sign off on every litter registration. This basically means that they can prevent you from breeding the dog if they feel you are not going about it in a responsible manner, or you haven't had the dog's hips, eyes, elbows, etc certified or if you are breeding the dog too much. There are too many people out there looking to make a quick buck and don't care about producing a quality puppy, so breeders have to do their part to prevent that from happening. There are too many dogs needing homes already, there just isn't any point in producing more unless you are doing it responsibly. To that end, I take back any puppy I produced at any age if the new owner no longer wants it, or can no longer care for it. Whatever the reason is that the person must get rid of the dog, I will take it back. I don't want my puppies going to a shelter. People who aren't willing or able to do that, shouldn't be producing puppies.

To be perfectly honest, I hear a lot of breeders say that they won't even respond to a person who just sends an email saying "I want a dog to breed", or just inquires about the price and nothing else. But I think that is wrong, because sooner or later these people will find someone to sell them a dog. It will probably not be a quality dog, and they will breed it anyway and they won't have had any guidance about how to go about it correctly. I like to try to explain the way things are to those people and give them something to think about. There is a lot that goes into breeding and some people never actually thought about it and don't know what they are getting into. The biggest issue I warn people about is, what would you do if the mother dies while having the puppies. It happens, and then you have to bottle feed those puppies every two hours. It takes a long time to bottle feed 10-12 lab puppies. Do you work? Who would do it while you are away?

I hope I explained the limited registration theory a little better too you. If you are interested in breeding, I would be willing to talk to you further about what your goals are and maybe I could be of assistance to you, but please don't enter into it lightly. It is a very big responsibility. My entire life literally revolves around my dogs and what I do with them. I am sure all good breeders would say the same.

Now, does that sound like someone who is contributing to the pet overpopulation problem? Can you honestly say after reading that, that breeders are only looking to make money? Can you honestly say that there is no such thing as a responsible breeder? If you can, then you haven't got a clue!

Posted by: Jen | September 12, 2007 11:01 AM

Kitty, you asked about pet store puppies

ALL PET STORE PUPPIES COME FROM PUPPY MILLS

Buying a pet store puppy is like giving animal abusers cash and telling them to go abuse more dogs.

That is exactly what happens.

The puppy mills stay in business and get bigger and abuse more dogs because of the ignorant who don't know they are buying mill dogs, and the confused who think that somehow buying the pet store dogs is equivalent to "rescuing" them.

Not true!

Posted by: kelly | September 12, 2007 11:14 AM

I am consistently perplexed at the logic of peta. The love of animals is certainly not a 'them and us' issue. Most of us who own dogs, cats, horses, cows, goats, etc. do have great affection for them. peta has a tendency to find the spurious bad apples and whoop and holler and generalize that all abbatiors are the same or all dog breeders are 'scum.' Realistically in typical peta fasion they exhibit poor understanding of the subject matter. Dogs are here because for eons man has selectively bred specific dogs that exhibited certain desirable traits such as herding, pointing, hounding, haring, or
even being tiny and not shedding much. If not for this selective breeding, there would be no dogs as we know them just wild versions of Canis sp. I suppose that would be ok, but I sure would miss my purebred registered Labrador retriever who is never happier than when he is returning with a duck or pheasant in his mouth on a cold fall morning. He wanted me to pass on his sympathy for all the dogs of peta members who don't get to do the things
they were bred to love. Oh, and he asked me to ask you to stop protecting his rights. He feels that with friends like you, who needs enemies?
Of course, if you need to castigate someone, the villains here are people who do not responsibly control the
reproduction of their pets. This is the source of all the
'mutts' that are in shelters. This seems fairly obvious.

Posted by: Christopher Cochran MD | September 12, 2007 11:22 AM

Those looking for a problem with overpopulation of unwanted dogs should look to Maricopa County Arizona (Phoenix and environs) as an example of how to manage a mega-city. They went over 30 months without having to euthanize an adoptable dog. Let us use our heads instead of our mouths when dealing with dog overpopulations. There are so many other rational ways to solve the problems.

Reputable breeders help rescue their own breeds so none ever get to the shelters. The ones we have to rescue come from commercial breeders and backyard breeders but we find them forever homes nevertheless.

Many dogs live due to our efforts, far more than we could ever breed.

Posted by: Judith | September 12, 2007 11:27 AM

To all of you pro-breeders and those who think that people should have the right to own a pet: I challenge you to watch the movie Earthlings, narrated by Joaquin Phoenix. You do not even have to watch the whole thing, because the section on companion animals is the first part. You will see why breeding is irresponsible (overpopulation is the main one) and it explains why humans do NOT have the right to own a pet - we should only be taking in rescues and having them spayed/neutred, we should not be supporting stores that sell animals, and we should definitely not be supporting people who deliberately bring more domestic animals into the world.

Posted by: Michele | September 12, 2007 11:31 AM

I disagree that a dog in a shelter will die because of the buyer buying from a breeder. Breeders, reputable breeders, spend hundreds if not thousands on health testing, top quality food, best of kennel housing, etc. and cannot afford to place dogs at the prices charged at animal shelters. If a person is looking for a pet and they have the choice between a small adoption fee charged by the shelter verses buying from a reputable breeder where the dog may cost int he hundreds, most would buy from the shelter first.
I'd also like to mention, that Dogs are not in shelters because of the majority of breeders. They are there because of irresponsible pet ownership, and occassionaly from irresponsible breeders. But most end up in shelters as drop off from pet owners. Pet owners need to be educated on the care and responsibility of the pet they own and not just dump it off at the animal shelter whenever they tire of it or can't train it.

Posted by: Rhonda Gillette | September 12, 2007 11:45 AM

i am a dog breeder & also a rescue. i, single handedly, have adopted out 246 rescue dogs in 2 years that i have personally taken from high kill shelters. they get shots utd, spayed/neutered before they go home, etc. i also am a breeder & my pups all go home with utd shots, a micro chip, & spay/neuter contract by the time they are 6 months old. i also require them to send me a copy of the certificate to prove that it was done.if they do not provide that & it doesn't get done, it's in my contract that i get them back if they do not do it. my application to apply for a puppy is 3 pages long, i do background checks & vet checks on everyone. my puppy contract is 5 pages long.so don't get on all the breeders, why don't you concentrate on the puppy mills in this country. THEY are contributing to the problem.

Posted by: lori | September 12, 2007 11:51 AM

"So how many of you supporting all these supposed "ideals" are ready to never own a dog again, when that day arrives????"

I'll put my hand up here. While I am a cat "owner," the principle is the same (we need compulsory cat sterilisation laws too). I have already decided that I will never go out and buy a cat again, as I simply will not support the breeding industry. Animals are not toys or accessories; they are not possessions; they are not ours to use as we want.

Posted by: DaliyVeg Editor | September 12, 2007 12:03 PM

I think this ad is misleading and another scare tactic by PETA. I am sorry, but I would not have ever adopted a shelter dog. I am not a breeder, but have been raised around purebred dogs my whole life. I have known breeders, ones that I consider good and they defintely do not make money. They often have puppies that they are left with because they will not sell them to every Tom, Dick or Harry. I have also seen one breeder try and take a person to court for violating the spay/neuter contract which she sold the puppy under. Unfortuntely, if you have 5-7 puppies in a litter and you sell all but 2 of them as pets, it can get even more costly to have them fixed before you sell them, and some vets won't fix them before a certain age (I just had a fight with having my puppy fixed at 4 month old). So if I am horrible for wanting to go to a breeder, where I can see the parents, the grandparents, and know what the genetic background of my dog may be, call me horrible. If I want to deal with a breeder who knows what the potential temperment of the puppy I am looking at may be, and match me up with that temperment, instead of going into a shelter and looking at dogs that someone knows little or nothing about, then call me horrible. I made wrong moves by looking at cute faces before, and dealt with those dogs for years until they passed, and now I learned that you must research and chose wisely.

Posted by: Virginia | September 12, 2007 12:05 PM

>

In some cases this is true. However, many people go to a responsible breeder because they want a dog with known temperament and health history, one that has been carefully nurtured from birth to give it the best possible start in life. Buying from a responsible breeder is not a guarantee of health, temperament, and working ability, but the odds are dramatically increased. People who are serious about wanting those odds are not likely to adopt from a shelter or rescue group.

I have 3 dogs and 2 cats. All but the youngest dog are rescues, and all have various health issues. My oldest dog in particular is a genetic nightmare with costly medical bills. Both of the resccue dogs also have temperament issues because of not being properly raised. I've spent thousands on training and they've improved, but by getting a rescue I got someone else's mess.

For my third dog I went to a responsible breeder because I wanted to up the odds of a healthy dog (couldn't afford another with huge medical bills) with good temperament and working abilities. I was not going to go the rescue route for that dog, so no dogs died because I chose to get one directly from a breeder.

Fact is there isn't so much a breeding problem, as there is an ownership problem. Most of the shelter population is there because the dogs aren't given appropriate socialization and training in their youth, hit adolesence, and are out of control. Much easier to dump and start over. Many pets are turned in because people are moving, remodeling, allegedly allergic, too big/hairy/loud, or some other incredibly stupid reason. People have to take responsibility for their dogs. Unfortunately, you cannot mandate or legislate common sense.

Perhaps if as much outrage was directed at those who believe pets are disposable, there would be less dogs dying.

Hope

Posted by: Hope Schmeling | September 12, 2007 12:14 PM

These overtly provocative campaigns do make me laugh together with the comments of the "animal liberation army" type people they are supported by. Hey Terri, which particular cesspool of breeding do you suggest police dogs, guide dogs and search and rescue dogs come from?? Can't wait to see the next pack of mongrels being trained to do these vital jobs in the community. Why dont you just think about it a little before you jump on the next intentionally devisive, negatively focussed campaign. How about a poster saying "irresponsible owners KILL dogs" or isnt this provocative enough.

Posted by: Alan | September 12, 2007 12:21 PM

Legislating is not the answer. Education as to what and who are responsible breeders is the key.

Educating as to what constitutes a responsible dog owner is also important.

Posted by: Meg | September 12, 2007 12:31 PM

The problem with shelter overcrowding is the owners of the dog. How are reputable breeders, who take puppies back if the owner can't keep it, part of the problem. The main goal of animal rights activist is to ban pet ownership of all kinds. If we fix all pets, ban all breeders, ban all dogs from " servitude" there will be no pets in the future. That is the primary purpose of Peta and they will support all laws that help them acheive that goal. Those of you who have rescue dogs, good for you:) I own three rescue dogs and three show dogs. I do know the difference in real breeders who care and those who do not. I will not point the finger at any one person for shelter crowding other than the person who gave up that dog. If you can not care for that dog, then do not take it.

Posted by: leslie | September 12, 2007 12:42 PM

You people are IDIOTS!!! What do you think would happen if every single dog and cat were spayed or neutered?? There would not be anymore dogs or cats!! The ONLY way to get more is by breeding!! Also any reputable breeder has their puppy buyers sign a contract stating if the pup is ever not wanted that it goes back to the breeder, and people who buy pups from reputable breeders need permission from the breeder to breed their dog in the future. It is called breeding rights, many breeders will not sell pups with this right and will hold the registration papers for a pup until proof is provided that the pup has been altered.

So why are the breeders at fault for shelter dogs?? The advertisement should read "The General Public Kill Shelter Dogs Chances!" Breeders do not force people to come and buy their pups.

Posted by: Billie | September 12, 2007 12:44 PM

bonnie hale

Shelter cats and dogs are NOT "castoff pets". Your snide remark is both ignorant and stupid. So with your rationale does that mean adopted children are "castoffs"? No human has a pure line either; are we all "castoffs" as well? Take a course in ethnology and anthropology and get educted.

Many rescued and shelter cats, dogs and bunnies make wonderful companions whether they are "pure" breeds or not.

Posted by: Ana | September 12, 2007 12:44 PM

If Aaron the moron knew anything about breeders and the AKC, he would know that puppymill breeders are not using the AKC like they used to. Most puppymill breeders use puppymill registries like ACA and APR. Don't believe me, call any local pet store and ask them what registries their puppies are registered to. GET A CLUE Aaron!

Posted by: Gamedoggie | September 12, 2007 12:45 PM

Michael Vick!

Posted by: Thomas Hutto | September 12, 2007 12:49 PM

You guys are all irresponsible. This subject is WAY to complex for you to stereo type breeders. So lets spey and neuter everything that breaths so we have NO animals in the future.hmmm could peta be about that??? I know more humans that need to be altered that animals. I have 3 purebreds only one is intact. I have had 4 litters in 20 yrs. I hate the fact that people make $ from animals, THere is a difference in ethics here folks. wake up AND see what the big picture is. Wha does the future hold???

Posted by: connie johnson | September 12, 2007 12:53 PM

This advertisement is not about (puppies) CHILDREN mistreated in (puppy mills) AFRICA, INDIA, PAKISTAN,AFGANISTAN ETC It's about the fact that every time you (buy) HAVE a (dog) CHILD from (a breeder) YOU AND YOUR PARTNER(puppy mill or "reputable") you are condemning a (shelter dog) ADOPTABLE CHILD to death.

This IS a black and white issue: one (dog) CHILD HAD BY YOU is one (dog)CHILD NOT rescued.

Posted by: bestuvall | September 12, 2007 01:14 PM

Terri, stop lying about mandatory spay/neuter.

And stop with the hysterical "no pet" garbage! You know that breeders are spreading lies like that nonsense to try to get sympathy and avoid responsibility.

Licensed breeders will be exempt. Small breeders will be exempt. True hobby breeders won't be affected at all.

Many breeders may need to be licensed, but licensing is cheap. And since other businesses must get licensed, why should dog breeders get a special loophole?

You know why you and your breeder friends don't like mandatory spay neuter.

It's because you will have to be honest that you are running businesses. You will have to document your sales and acknowledge that you DO make money (despite the lies about breaking even or losing money,) which right now the tax man and your community know nothing about.

You will have to be honest about just how many litters you actually breed, as opposed to what you claim to breed.

You will have to be honest about the fact that you are breaking dog limits, running illegal businesses out of your homes, and selling unaltered animals.

But it will also mean that the puppy mill blood money that gets channelled through AKC registrations might not be as readily available for your breed and showing activities, as unlicensed puppy mills are shut down.

The AKC was going broke, after all, until they started registering puppy mill puppies.

Stop thinking about the money! Start thinking about the dogs for once.

And above all, stop lying.

Posted by: kelly | September 12, 2007 01:17 PM

Uhh... As for Kelley's comment 09/11/07 at 7:42 pm.

Mandatory neuter/spay laws?

That would stop the progression of dogs altogether.
That is more inhumane then the actual breeding of dogs.

I picked up a Wirehaired Pointing Griffon from a breeder in Montana. They are not horrible people, they actually have two rescue WPG's in their house.

Posted by: LEVI | September 12, 2007 01:18 PM

Your claim that responsible breeders "make a tidy profit" is unfounded and absolutely untrue. Ask any truely responsible breeder about the amount of time and money invested in producing a healthy litter of puppies:

We perform a host of health exams, obtain certifications, show the dogs in conformation or performance events to prove that they are quality representatives of their breed and worthy of passing on their genetics, pay for vaccines/worming/health exams/eye exams/etc for the puppies, and are always there to take back any puppies we produce if their owners cannot keep them. The last thing I want as a breeder is to find one of my puppies in a shelter...my contract clearly states that if the dog cannot be kept it MUST be returned to me for re-homing.

Here's a short list of the health checks we perform on my breed:
*OFA xrays for hips, elbows (some also certify cardiac, patella)
*CERF annual eye exams
*DNA profiling (designed to track diseases in families of dogs and allow breeders to make informed decisions when planning litters).
*Drug reactivity testing (to determine if the dog is sensative to certain medications)
*Annual health exams, vaccines, licensing
*Microchipping/tattooing for identification purposes
*Puppy vaccines, worming, health exams, eye exams
*Be prepared for emergency room visit if there is a problem during whelping or with one of the dogs/puppies
*Take back and re-home a puppy/dog if needed
*Training and competition fees and other expenses
*Food, preventatives, supplements, grooming

I could go on forever, but hopefully you get the point.

In my last litter I broke even. However, I do not breed to make money (I am otherwise employed) and if I had lost money on the litter that wouldn't have mattered. I bred the litter to try to better my breed and keep a puppy for myself.

I agree that irresponsible breeders are a problem, but you won't deter them by passing legislation outlawing breeding or the other attempts you've made...remember, these people are irresponsible anyway and are highly unlikely to abide by your new laws no matter how threatening.

Before you make bogus claims and rely on fear tactics to obtain support I suggest you do your research.

Posted by: Anonymous | September 12, 2007 01:25 PM

So you're saying that a well planned litter with a pedigree that includes health and temperament history should never be born because some irresponsible person let their dog of unknown heritage, health and temperament get pregnant by some other dog of unknown heritage and then dumped them in the shelter? Who is mentoring these people that adopt those dogs if they decide they would like to share a dog sport with their companion? Who do they ask about the specialized feeding, exercise, and training that their breed might need? What happens if something happens and they can't keep the dog?
Reputable breeders do exist, and here's my definition of one:
Someone who has good knowlege of their breed, who has proven the dog's worthiness to be bred through health, temperament, and performance tests, all of which are documented, and stands behind each dog they produce for the life of that dog, and will take it back if needed for the entire life of the dog. A responsible breeder usually keeps control of the rights to breed any dogs they produce. This is to protect their reputation for producing good dogs, as well as to keep unmentored breeding out of the hands of people who think they should have a litter for some silly reason, like kids witnessing the miracle of birth, etc. I have to laugh at the vet tech who hates breeders for producing puppies that people bring to the vet. WHAT JOB would this person have if there were no pets? I wonder if there was a vet tech with that attitude at the hospital where I took my dog to be spayed. Maybe the fact that she had had puppies in the past was the reason she was given no care after her surgery and slowly and painfully bled through the day, dying when I arrived to pick her up.

Posted by: Susie | September 12, 2007 01:30 PM

And would anyone like to know why the crackpot breeders have come out of the woodwork to come here and spread the usual propaganda about "reputable" breeders?

They are all madly messaging each other and emailing each other and exhorting each other on their forums to come here and spread the gospel

And try to cover their butts.

This is what happens every time breeder licensing is attempted, anti-puppy mill laws are attempted, better regulation of breeders is attempted. The kooks come out of the woodwork and gas on with the usual hot air ("dogs will disappear! I don't make money! None of my dogs get dumped! I'm saving the heritage of my breed!)

Lies, lies, and more lies.

nd yeah, some of these breeders do rescue. OF THEIR OWN BREED ONLY. OF THEIR OWN DOGS. Dogs that can no longer be bred, can never be bred (genetic "mistakes"), or dumps from buyers! (at least the buyers who bothered to contact them before they dumped the dog)

And Brandi- successful police, military, and search and rescue dogs COME FROM ANIMAL SHELTERS AND RESCUE PROGRAMS!

Posted by: kelly | September 12, 2007 01:33 PM

As long as there is so much misery in this world and milliards of stray-dogs and cats it is idiotic, criminal and selfish to breed dogs and cats! People can take a homeless animal - and it must not be of a special race - this is racism - isn't it!!!

Posted by: Zanoni | September 12, 2007 01:38 PM

My first reaction was "What a load of rubbish" as you may gather I do not agree with these sentiments at all, puppy farms yes, they seem very cruel. I have only little experience, I would not have a dog until I retired as I feel going out to work and leaving it is unkind? the breeder who sold me my wonderful puppy cares a tremendous amount for her dogs, I feel it would be difficult to find a more knowledgeable and caring person in relation to dogs, she is willing to give advice when needed and requires information as to the dogs well being and progress.
How sad it would be to loose some of these wonderful ancient breeds. No I do not agree with the PETA campaign.

Posted by: Kay Lance | September 12, 2007 01:43 PM

I usually support PETA, but this one goes quite far. Why don't so called "dog lovers" stop turning in their dogs to the shelter. There are owners that are repeat offenders of this. Reasons are: they don't have the time, the puppy got too big, etc. Also, many of our shelter dogs have issues from owners who do not know how to train their dogs. Shelter dogs that have been abused by the rolled up newspaper abuse. So dogs are turned in because of the bad habits that were developed due to no training. Do you know how many people I have run into in the petstores that think if they crate their dog that the dog instantly knows that it should not use the bathroom in it? Wow--and the buck doesn't stop there--I have already had to advise 3 owners of puppies under 6 months from using shock collars as a form of discipline. The only thing I would agree to is that there are "backyard breeders" who feel that they have a male and a female and that mating them makes them a breeder. A true responsible breeder is one that takes an interest in the breed, obtains a Canine Good Citizenship Award on their dogs, volunteers with their canine for canine therapy, competes in activities like conformation, obedience, agility, etc. A breeder makes sure by contract, interview, and other means that the family is ready for the puppy and will take care of it through vet care and obedience training. A backyard breeder will just offer a puppy to the first person who offers to pay. Just something to think about. Why do we have all those shelter dogs in the first place? Owners who turn in their dog, leave their dog outside in the backyard rather than being part of the family, or owners who do not properly contain or leash their dogs.

Posted by: Odessa | September 12, 2007 02:11 PM

"Of course, if you need to castigate someone, the villains here are people who do not responsibly control the
reproduction of their pets. This is the source of all the
'mutts' that are in shelters. This seems fairly obvious."

Typical breeder propaganda.

Gee, why is that at least 25 percent and frequently a higher percentage of shelter dogs are "purebred."

And how do you think those "mutts" came to be?

Purebreds breeding with other purebreds.

An altering contract is 100 percent empty, legally unenforceable nonsense.

It's a cheap way to avoid responsiblity and cost of altering BEFORE sale!

Dogs purchased from so-called "reputable" breeders ARE being used in backyard breeding operations and ending up in puppy mills.
And there isn't squat the breeder can do about it. NOTHING!

Dogs are considered property, and the buyer can DO WHAT THEY LIKE WITH THE DOG.

And they sure as heck are! and the breeder is usually clueless.

Posted by: kelly | September 12, 2007 02:45 PM

As a small hobby breeder, I don't make any money off of puppies. In fact I am usually in the red. Breeders aren't your culprit. Its people who don't spay/neuter dogs placed as pets and then bring into the world dogs that no one wants. It's too bad you don't research the entire problem.

Posted by: Tina | September 12, 2007 02:46 PM

The real villains are the puppy mills who breed for profit, backyard breeders who breed for profit and the DOG AND CAT OWNERS that dump their animals in shelters. Instead of pumping $$$$ to lump together and stereotype ALL breeders, why not try to spend the money to set up camps and ranches to 'rescue' animals out of shelters or better yet EDUCATE not mislead the public. I am a breeder PROUD OF IT, have NEVER made one penny. All my dogs have NEVER ended up in shelters b/c I interview all potential puppy buyers and TAKE BACK NO QUESTIONS ASKED any dog that doesn't work out. It is so very sad to see the waste of this money that could go into better things then billboards that are a black and white lie.

Posted by: ethical breeder AND PROUD! | September 12, 2007 02:51 PM

The AKC makes the majority of its income from puppy mill registrations.

For the liars who claim otherwise?

AKC. Hunte Corporation.

AKC High Volume Breeder Committee (pretty language for puppy mills.)

PETLAND pet stores

"In 2006, the Board of Directors of the AKC signed a contract with Petland pet stores to facilitate the registration of dogs sold by Petland and bred by the Hunte Corporation, the largest commercial dog breeder (sometimes referred to as a puppy mill) in the U.S. After a brief flurry of controversy, the AKC rescinded the Petland contract, but as AKC Chairman Ron Menaker notes, the AKC has "been registering AKC eligible puppies from Petland, and every other company selling AKC registrable puppies"

Posted by: kelly | September 12, 2007 02:52 PM

Hey folks, notice some of the breeder buzzwords? Makes them evident from a mile away.

For example, the term "ownership." Yep, you have breeders here.

Breeders are obsessed with the term "ownership" because their central philosophy is that animals are PROPERTY and that property OWNERS may do as they wish with their property

ANYTHING

without rules, regulations, laws, inspections, oversight

(or taxes paid!)

And yes, that covers abuse, cruelty, torture, failure to seek vet treatment- because they lobby against laws to prevent those things as well!

That's why you will see them supporting "property rights" political candidates, that promise to let them keep hiding out underground

Posted by: kelly | September 12, 2007 03:05 PM

I know that there are some unreliable breeders but most shelter dogs come from back yard breeders or puppy mills, neither or which I would consider reliable. You need to do some research and not lead with your prejudices. The more I see of PITA the more I am reminded of some millitant vegans I knew back in the 60s.

Posted by: Kacie | September 12, 2007 03:43 PM

"This subject is WAY to complex for you to stereo type breeders. So lets spey and neuter everything that breaths so we have NO animals in the future.hmmm could peta be about that???"

yup, don't let PETA fool you-PETA actually stands for People for the Extinction of Tame Animals, or so they act like it.

"Don't let the liars like above Diad Hisea EVER convince you that the so-called "responsible" breeders are that."

In response to Aaron Bevard,

Personally, I don't prefer to be called a liar without having a chance to defend myself-I was simply desribing myself (and a host of other people I know) in my post above. Without knowing me on a personal level you have NO evidence or right to call me a liar AT ALL! If you don't want to call good breeders "responible" then just call them ethical :)

Posted by: Diad Hisea | September 12, 2007 03:43 PM

And if anyone thinks that the dogs from "responsible" or "reputable" breeders are not afflicted with genetic health and behavior problems-well, they most certainly are!

These issues are some of the biggest problems that the breeding world tries (and fails!) to cope with.

And spends much time hiding or defending from customers, the media, and the public.

So don't start in with that "shelter dogs are defective" routine that sleazy breeders try to pull!

And when your dog from a breeder exhibits those genetic issues, what will the breeder do for you? They won't refund your money. They won't pay your vet bills (unless you sue them. Suggestion? Do so). They will offer you a pup from one of their future litters "free."

Disgusting.

But hey, an honest breeder will admit it at least! Note that the alleged lucky breeds are practically or essentially nil.

"All breeds of dog suffer some degree of hereditary defects and diseases that cause conscientious breeders to have nightmares. Some lucky breeds are relatively free of these inherited conditions, while others are riddled with them - it is almost impossible, for instance to find a collie which is both free of eye defects and the genes which cause them. Skeletal disorders are also common in dogs - hip dysplasia is found very frequently in some giant breeds and many toy breeds are often afflicted with patellar luxation (slipping kneecaps). Blood clotting disorders (hemophilia and Von Willebran's Disease) also occur in a number of breeds.

These things are the main genetic nightmares, though others occur with greater or lesser frequency in one or more breeds."

Posted by: kelly | September 12, 2007 03:51 PM

"And would anyone like to know why the crackpot breeders have come out of the woodwork to come here and spread the usual propaganda about "reputable" breeders?

They are all madly messaging each other and emailing each other and exhorting each other on their forums to come here and spread the gospel"

Hmm...first I'm NOT a "crackpot breeder"

Secondly, it is not propaganda we are just telling the truth about how we breed dogs, I LOSE money breeding my dogs but I do it out of a sense of duty and love.

Thirdly, you are simply stating what YOU think is going on, "They are all madly messaging each other and emailing each other and exhorting each other on their forums to come here and spread the gospel" you have no facts AT ALL that this happening-AND IT"S NOT!! I don't even know any other breeders on the web. PLEASE don't state something as fact until you know it is fact.

Posted by: Diad Hisea | September 12, 2007 03:55 PM

Check out PETA's factsheet on the "responsible" breeders so many people seem to be such big fans of:

Animal Rights Uncompromised:
There's No Such Thing as a 'Responsible Breeder'

Most people know to avoid puppy mills and "backyard" breeders. But many kind individuals fall prey to the picket-fence appeal of so-called "responsible" breeders and fail to recognize that no matter how kindly a breeder treats his or her animals, as long as dogs and cats are dying in animal shelters and pounds because of a lack of homes, no breeding can be considered "responsible."

All breeders fuel the companion animal overpopulation crisis, and every time someone purchases a puppy or a kitten instead of adopting from an animal shelter, homeless animals lose their chance of finding a home—and will be euthanized. Many breeders don't require every puppy or kitten to be spayed or neutered prior to purchase, so the animals they sell can soon have litters of their own, creating even more animals to fill homes that could have gone to shelter animals—or who will end up in animal shelters or so-called "no-kill" animal warehouses themselves. Simply put, for every puppy or kitten who is deliberately produced by any breeder, a shelter animal dies. Producing animals for sale is a greedy and callous business in a world where there is a critical and chronic shortage of good homes for dogs, cats, and other animals, and the only "responsible breeders" are ones who, upon learning about their contribution to the overpopulation crisis, spay or neuter their animals, and get out of the business altogether.

Breeding Trouble
Producing more animals—either to make money or to obtain a certain "look" or characteristic—is also harmful to the animals who are produced by breeding. Dogs and cats don't care whether their physical appearance conforms to a judge's standards, yet they are the ones who suffer the consequences of humans' manipulation. Inbreeding causes painful and life-threatening genetic defects in "purebred" dogs and cats, including crippling hip dysplasia, blindness, deafness, heart defects, skin problems, and epilepsy. Distorting animals for specific physical features also causes severe health problems. The short, pushed-up noses of bulldogs and pugs, for example, can make exercise and even normal breathing difficult for these animals. Dachshunds' long spinal columns often cause back problems, including disk disease.

Adoption: The Only Compassionate Option
There is no excuse for breeding or for supporting breeders. If you love animals and are ready to care for a cat or a dog for the rest of the animal's life, please adopt from your local animal shelter, where there are dogs and cats galore—tails wagging and hearts filled with hope, looking out through the cage bars, just waiting to find someone to love. Shelters receive new animals every day, so if you don't find the perfect companion to match your lifestyle on your first visit, keep checking back. When you find your new best friend, you'll be glad that you chose to save a life—and made a new best friend as well.

If you know anyone who is considering purchasing an animal instead of adopting from a shelter, please forward this article to them, and please consider making a donation today to support PETA's vital work to save lives.

Posted by: Spay and neuter immediately, please | September 12, 2007 04:00 PM

GREAT BILLBOARD!! PUT THEM UP EVERYWHERE!!

Posted by: Michelle | September 12, 2007 04:08 PM

Too bad PETA doesn't spend some of their millions educating JQP on the difference between puppymills, backyard breeders and responsible breeders, instead of bashing all.
To end ALL breeding would mean the end of the purebred dog in the US (no need then for boxerrescue.com) and ultimately the end of pet dogs as we know them in today's society.

Posted by: Linda S. | September 12, 2007 04:09 PM

RIGHT ON Kelly!

tell it like it is...breeders want no accountability, no IRS Income Reporting and no Licensing Regulations.

They are the PROBLEM!!

go PETA!! Great Billboard put one up in NORFOLK VA
where I live.

Posted by: Denise | September 12, 2007 04:15 PM

There is a huge difference between an ethical responsible breeder of pure bred dogs & a puppy mill breeder---but both DO take homes from dogs that might be adopted from shelters. But a responsible breeder is one that does home checks before they sell a puppy---they offer refunds or rebates on the price after the puppy or kitten is spayed or neutered---they follow up & offer advice on training & care---they always take the puppy/dog back if the family changes or just doesn't want the pet any more--no matter what their age---puppies bred by these folks rarely end up at shelters---when they do---they are usually microchipped or tattooed & are returned to the breeder---the majority of dogs at shelters are breeds that are bred intentionally or accidentally by low class uncaring people & given away as puppies free to someone who is not able to properly care for them--I do a lot of rescue--pulling dogs from large kill shelters on their last day---there are some 300 dogs at all times in the runs of the animal control I pull from most of the time---& typically there are only 50 adoptable dogs out of 300--the rest are sick--unsocialized---untrained--"bad" breeds--that are very hard to rehabilitate & rehome---almost all of the pure bred dogs will be taken in by the pure bred rescue groups---there's nothing wrong with responsible breeders that breed a litter of puppies 1 time a year in their kitchen & train the puppies & screen the potential adopters---but puppy mills--that breeds many many litters out in a kennel--no socialization---no screening of potential adopters---sold to pet shops (who also do not screen homes)---they may indeed make some money off of the puppies--but it's not the right way to do it---to condemn all breeders is to stop having the characteristics of any pure bred dog any more---we don't want that---those of us that adore a particular breed want to encourage ethical breeders & educate people about proper pet care--& step in when our neighbor leaves their pet chained to a tree to have puppies with whatever comes along & nothing should be coming along either!! We have decent laws---we even have laws that police the puppy mills---but not enough tax money to pay the saleries to check & make sure people are treating animals well---maybe that's where we need the work!!!

Posted by: Ellen Morgan | September 12, 2007 04:15 PM

Dogs are not designer hand bags. People are too interested in the breed, as if it was a Coach bag. "Oh, my dog is a pure bred this" or "My dog is a pure bred that." Who cares?!?!? How about: My dog is a loving and loyal being that I adopted from the shelter. Because I adopted him, he was not put to sleep.

Posted by: Jaclyn | September 12, 2007 04:17 PM

Leave it to PETA to oversimplify for the purpose of galvanizing sides.

As a breeder of beautiful Bernese Mountain dogs, profit is not a factor in our decision-making nor is it even an objective of our breeding program. We spare no expense if it will benefit our dogs and do not consider our passion a profit-maker.

Of course, the choices and sacrifices breeders make for the benefit of their dogs isn't something the good folk at PETA want to take into account.

Posted by: joe reader | September 12, 2007 04:25 PM

Just reading Kelly's comments...

Any facts (any at all) to back up your claims or are you just spouting hyperbole?

Posted by: joereader | September 12, 2007 04:32 PM

Dog and cat breeders believe PETA has an agenda to end the ownership of all domestic animals. For those of us who deeply love our pets and cannot imagine life without pets, this is a horrifying scenario.

Breeders believe PETA's first step in that goal is to stop all purebred breeders. They fight legislation because they perceive that as soon as the animal rights activitists get one law passed, they will push for more and more laws until they DO end all breeding and end ALL pet ownership.

WE BELIEVE WE ARE FIGHTING TO PRESERVE THE VERY EXISTANCE OF THE PETS WE ALL LOVE.

Ads like this serve one purpose - to re-enforce our belief that PETA is out to end all pet ownership.

Anyone who loves animals is heartbroken at the number of dogs and cats that are euthanized. I believe that those who care about animal welfare include many of you AND many breeders.....we have much in common, but PETA insists on using tactics that emphasize divisiveness, fear and mistrust ON BOTH SIDES so that we are unable to work together to find solutions.

There is a solution to every problem, but the key is finding the common ground, to find agreement, then work on the differences.

Posted by: Gina | September 12, 2007 04:39 PM

I think that we should also cease any human breeding as well until all the foster children are adopted out and are living wonderful happy lives!

You have your right to voice your opinion, I respect that, we live in a free country. I could also shell out $150 to rent a billboard for a month. It would have a family giving their robotic animal an oil change asking America if this is the ideal pet. PETA wants to do away with all breeding of any kind, that means no more domesticated pets.

If it were not for wonderful responsible breeders we wouldn't be able to enjoy the companionship of our beloved pets.

Just because your dog has it's reproductive organs, does not mean your an awful person. I'm a proud owner of a 15 yr old male (pure bred) dog, he's still packing between his legs and he's never fathered a litter! Because he is owned by a responsible pet owner who feels we don't need to slash off our dogs testicals or tear our dogs uterus out to proove we are "responsible" or doing the right thing!

Do your research people, just like humans, hormones play a vital role in our bodies functions. Why don't we just all go get our uterus' out if we don't want kids? Why do older women spend thousands a year for hormones when they go through menopause? Hormones are an essential part of any animals bodies.

What kind of people are responsible for bringing all those "unwanted" animals at the shelters? Irresponsible pet owners, not responsible breeders and pet owners. Responsible breeders take back any dog/puppy they produced, they don't let them end up in shelters. The animals that end up in shelters are from irresponsible people who either brought the animals there and surrendered themselves, they are brought in by people who found strays wandering the streets (dumped by irresponsible pet owners) and they are brought in from animal control officers because of owner surrender or court warranted due to abuse and or not properly caring for the animals.

I also enjoy pure bred dogs, I am actively involved in conformation events, training my dog(s) to start obedience competition, I help out with breed rescue, volunteer at local shelter and proud to say that some day I may be lucky enough to carrying on the wonderful pure bred breed I have so fallen in love with by choosing to breed. When I choose to breed, I will have completed the health testing to ensure the dogs health, I will also require that of the stud I choose and my reason for breeding will to produce my next companion(s) and conformation, performace event dogs. I will rely on my many mentors who also hold this breed near and dear to their heart to help guide me in acheiving my goal of producing wonderful healthy examples of the breed. BTW I think that most any responsible breeder would welcome the opportunity to claim their hobby on their taxes. I know I would, I spend an excess of thousands of dollars exhibiting my dogs, feeding them, providing medical care and the additional cost of housing as well. I could get a tax relief from the government because my "business" would most certainly not show a profit!

Responsible pet owners and breeders are not the issue, there will still be irrespsonible pet owners/breeders with or without laws. They will only have to work harder to fly under the radar.

I also forsee that their pets will get even less care than before. What incentive would they have to take their pet to the vet if they would worry about being reported if their dog was not spayed/neutered?

Mandatory spay/neuter laws are not the answer and will only punish law abiding citizens.

How many dollars does PETA spend to actually benefit those unwanted dogs/cats that are used for their direct care and not for lobbying for laws that will only result in a bigger more costly government? How many no kill shelters does PETA operate? What kind of productive education does PETA do for the general public to let them know about responsible pet ownership?

Posted by: Melissa | September 12, 2007 04:47 PM

Sorry, PETA and their ilk are all terrifyingly weird and irresponsible nutcases. I have no use for people who spend their lives, time, and money trying to tell, and if that doesn't work, FORCE, everybody else to do it their way.
I'm a breeder, and I'll continue to be. Try to stop me. If there are no breeders in N.A., we'll simply get our stock from Europe. I've done that in the past, and it was a refreshing change from the ding-dongs I have to deal with over here. Don't be within arm's reach if you try to tell me I don't care about my dogs, only breed for the money (HA!), or whatever other mad, twilight zone hyperbole you people spout.

Posted by: Mags | September 12, 2007 04:51 PM

Once again, lets just say that if the people that purchased the pet in the first place would actually committ to care for that pet for its lifetime, there would be no need for shelters or rescue groups, because people wouldn't be leaving them at shelters, or neglecting them, or abusing them!

If society can ever learn that lesson, then this world will be a better place.

Mandatory spay/nueter will NEVER work for the simple fact that those that don't care now, won't care then. They won't fix their dogs and cats...they don't even bother to take care of them now! And extensive studies are showing that altering animals at a early age (less than 4 months) is having severe consequences to the health of the animal as it gets older.

Again, those that care don't let accidental breedings happen. They do genetic screening to produce the best they can (and yes sometimes they do still produce a dog with a genetic issue), they prescreen homes and always take back what they have bred regardless of their age. If all breeders did just that there wouldn't be any rescues or shelters needed.

Of course, not everyone would qualify to own a pet, and right now I guess it's every person's right to be able to purchase a pet on a whim and then dump it in a shelter later for getting 'knocked up' or barking because it's chained to a tree 24/7, or my personal favorite...they just installed new carpet, or moved into a new house and don't want fur all over it.

Fix society and you've fixed the problem. Unless your objective really is the elimination of pets. I believe I've been told to my face that a 'Dead dog is better than a slave dog!' And don't bash me for having purebred dogs and wanting to compete with them! I do my part for helping dogs in need!!!

Posted by: Diane | September 12, 2007 05:17 PM

Gina, you and your friends "believe" any nutty piece of propaganda that you dream up to oppose just about any humane legislation under the sun!

Don't pull that fake "love my pet" or "end pet ownership" garbage.

And you fight legislation to protect your selfish interests!

If you and your pals spent half as much time on dog rescue as you did sitting around instigating each other on breeder and pet law boards with the latest hate against humane groups, and belittling people involved in the humane world, and making up the latest lies to fight legislation with-

well, the world would be a better place for dogs!

But it is far easier for the selfish and greedy to whip each other into frenzies over foolishness and conspiracy theories.

And you and your breeder friends seek NO common ground, and refuse to compromise, and brag that you will fight any and all humane legislation till your last breaths!

Spreading and creating divisiveness, fear, and mistrust are what breeders and their lobby spend most of their time and effort on.

Vast numbers of hours every day.

Those are BREEDER tactics.

While people in the humane world are out rescuing dogs, running spay neuter clinics, dealing with abuse and cruelty issues, trying to educate, you name it.

Posted by: kelly | September 12, 2007 05:18 PM

Please put this message on a bumper sticker! My half-retarded breeder neighbor doesn't seem to grasp that I think she's scum, so maybe if I park my car in front of her house with this sticker on it, she'll get the picture.

Here in Southern California, breeders like her are the norm. Losers breeding untitled and possible paper-hung dogs in dirty little houses filled with children. No health tests, no deposits and waiting list. Open any Pennysaver or classified ad section. These dogs get sold to more lowrent losers who think animals are like handbags or cars and get dumped at the shelter when they aren't convenient anymore.

Posted by: pitbullmom | September 12, 2007 05:53 PM

99% of the animals in shelters are Mutts and there are rescue groups for all purebreds!!!Since China has too many people should all Americans stop having their own children until there are no surplus children in China???

Posted by: amy | September 12, 2007 06:13 PM

NOT TRUE!

If people would only purchase from responsible breeder's there would be no shelter dogs. Ethical responsible breeders screen homes to make sure the dog is a suitable match, they insure they are placing each puppy into a loving home that has properly researched the big decision in adding a pet to their family and if for some reason something happens that they can no longer keep that dog the breeder will take the dog they raised back, they don't end up in shelters!

Posted by: Jennifer | September 12, 2007 06:14 PM

The animals in shelters are mutts and there are rescue groups for all purebreds.

Posted by: amy rasmussen | September 12, 2007 06:17 PM

This is so misguided. While some breeders/puppy mills may be in it for the money...responsible breeders are not! A GOOD responsible breeder spends alot of money on health testing to attempt to breed away from health issues rampant in specific breeds. They also require animals be spayed/neutered before they leave and will take them back at any time for any reason during the life time of the pet. The poor animals in the shelters are there for numerous reasons: lost, puppy mills and ignorance. NOT from responsible breeders! Your money & time would be better spent educating the general public about spaying & neutering. I personally own both. AKC show dogs that I have bred & animals I have rescued from the local shelters.

Posted by: Lisa | September 12, 2007 06:24 PM

And who is trying to stop breeding? NO ONE

All you need to do is be honest and get licensed if you breed multiple litters a year

Cheap, easy.

You are fighting to preserve off-the-books, unregulated profits and activity.

You are fighting to protect puppy mills and dog fighter breeders (whether you want to admit it or not.)

Try having some dignity and honesty and be proud of what you do.

Be honest, law-abiding LICENSED businesses. With rules.

The breeding world cannot be an unregulated jungle, or dogs will continue to suffer. And they are sure suffering while you sit around screeching about pet ownership.

Posted by: kelly | September 12, 2007 06:29 PM

Remember those that breed those mixed breeds are still Breeders. Most of those dogs are not feral but from someone who wanted to show the kids of get another Daisy dog without the thought of another puppy or where the others will go.
Responsible breeders are just that responsible breeders follow up and take back their dogs so they won't wind up in a shelter

Posted by: Mary Jane Malko | September 12, 2007 06:34 PM

AKC did NOT complete any registration deal with Petland or any other puppymill supplier. Obviously the Peta brainwashed havent kept up with the facts. Nor will they ever be able to distinguish between hobby breeders vs anyone else. To ignorant to walk thru Petland and see the truth about who is really breeding for profit. None of those pups parents, grandparents etc have been screened against possible hereditary problems and they have no real guarantee. their registry's are NOT AKC....
i have owned both mixed breeds and purebred dogs. my preference is purebred. my right as a dog owner. Shelter dogs are the result of compulsive buying of the cute puppy be it in someone's backyard or the petstore. none of which will rehome a puppy if need be.
Peta's supporters who cant see past the blinders are followers and not leaders. Believe what you are told and cannot think for themself. Cult mentality is what Peta must thrive on or they will lose their momentum. its obvious from some of the comments on this list that tunnel vision is not dead. It would be very scary if these people really educated themselve's. Peta would have to disband. What a shame.

Posted by: Mary Kaiser | September 12, 2007 07:49 PM

I’m not a breeder.
I have pure breed dog and yes my dog is a loving and loyal. I’m thinking to breed my dog sometimes in the future.
I can tell you why. My dog has more titles then some people on this forum. LOL
Do I plan to get any profit on breeding? The answer is hell no!!!!
I ‘invest ‘ in my dog 3-4 times more then I can get back. Dogs shows, hunt tests, vet exam and etc. I’m proud of my dog like parents proud of their children. Do you think after that I would be able to give up my dog to the shelter? If my dog was not be able to pass any test like OFA for example I would be never breed him and he will be neutered. Breeder/co owner will be all over me for this and will take dog back rather then let me to give up dog to the shelter. There are puppy mills and breeders who produce designer’s dogs (mutts) and also irresponsible owners. This is what PETA should go after and not after breeders who is building kennel reputation for a years. I love mutts and I’m considering getting second dog from the shelter just to spare life and get companion for my dog. PETA live responsible breeders alone and donate money to the local shelter. I bet the money that PETA spent on this billboard can spare few lives in the shelter.

Posted by: Max | September 12, 2007 08:05 PM

WOW...I find it funny that no one has responded to my deliberation about the true issue--OWNERS. Owners who turn in their dogs to the shelter because the puppy got too big or they don't have enough time. Many owners don't know the history of their dog breed. For instance one owner asked me why did their yorkie always want to play. I asked them if they ever read the breed history and type about terriers. The answer is always no. Or what about the Owners who leave their dog in the back yard all day long rather than part of the family yet wonder why the dog dug its way out of their "backyard jail". Owners who repeatedly turn in dogs because they can't housebreak them yet foster parents are able to make leeway in 2 weeks? Yes, there are owners out there that have turned in 2-3 dogs in a 1-2 year time. Owners who state--what can an obedience class teach me but later they turn in the dog to the shelter because they feel the dog is dumb or is untrainable. That is the real reason why dogs are in the shelters. Go to your local shelter and find out about the horror stories!

Posted by: Odessa | September 12, 2007 08:30 PM

PETA -- Do you know who RUNS purebred rescues?? Ethical Breeders who belong to national and local breed clubs.

Who sells dogs only on return to breeder contracts (to ensure the dogs never end up in rescue or shelters or even with a person other than the one the dog was sold to?) Ethical Breeders.

Ethical breeders are MORE than happy to steer people to the breed rescue instead of a pup. There are plenty of people wanting pups out there -- its the RESCUE DOGS we talk up and try to get homes for!

Ethical breeders practice and teach responsible dog ownership. They educate the public.

Idiotic to attack ethical breeders -- they are part of the solution NOT part of the problem

Posted by: Andy Johnson | September 12, 2007 08:33 PM

I will never an animal from
an animal shelter they only
care about money not animals
I will only get animals from
breeders not the animal KILLERS!

Posted by: Candace | September 12, 2007 08:34 PM

Personally I have never dealt with a irresponsible breeder. The shelters I have had experience with were filthy. The dogs who were ill and needed medical attention were held from 3 days to one week to allow the people who were the "owners" the opportunity to pick up their dog. It has been my experience through personal contact with several "pure-bred-rescue" groups that the dogs in the shelters had been abused and/or neglected. It is necessary to change the system, but to arbitrarily say that the "breeders" are at fault doesn't solve anything. Dog owners need to be responsible owners. This is impossible to legislate. Pure-bred dogs are abused right along with mix-breed types. Good Breeders should not be penalized any more than Dog or Cat lovers who take their responsibilities seriously.
Don't you realize that that the people who tend to treat their pets horribly usually don't spend the money to register their dogs, get their needed shots and boosters and will continue to allow their dogs to breed. They are the folks who dump their dogs in distant neighborhoods, chain them without shelter, food or water and allow them to bark and/or howl without regard. There was an article in a local paper recently surrounding the abuse and ultimate death of pets in a backyard.
A neighbor had called Animal Control for help. The problem was not dealt with, and eventually the neighbor's persistence got their attention. We need to revamp the system that is already in place. We need to take a look at the shelters in all our communities and see how they are functioning. There is a break-down somewhere and it is really irresponsible to point fingers at folks (who are responsible breeders) concerned with the continuation of healthy pure breeds. As with most situations that involve humans, it comes down to peoples hearts.

Posted by: B. Wise | September 12, 2007 08:34 PM

WOW! is all I can say. What a terrible ad. Do you guys not think about the fact that some people are breeding certain breeds to better perfect the breed...aka as in show dogs. I know you guys hate people who show dogs, and think it's cruel. But think about it...we're not the ones breeding the dogs that are being put in the animal shelters...matter of fact if us responsible breeders ever saw one of our dogs we bred in an animal shelter, we would be heartbroken. I do think adopting from an animal shelter is great, but only for some people. People do have opinions, and if they want a particular breed of dog, for whatever best fits their family, then they should be able to get itSo maybe you shouldn't classify breeders as one type of person, like say "irresponsible, and just wanting a way to make easy money". Because that is NOT true at all, and if you actually talked to "responsible" breeders you would know that. Maybe next time you should research a little better. So if you're trying to stop people from breeding dogs, maybe you should think about all the people involved in breeding dogs, and not just the type of people who want money. Think about it!!

Posted by: Breawna | September 12, 2007 08:37 PM

Wow, I personnally wonder how many of you pro Peta people realize that if Peta had their way non of you would own dogs. Manditory Spay and Nueter means the eventual extintion of dogs of all breeds and combinations there of. Peta blames the Pitbull breed for improper training and ownership. Peta is out to protect the wild animals. Not your beloved Pet. Maybe you should research their agenda a bit more before you approve of an ad they promote.

Posted by: Melissa Swank | September 12, 2007 08:42 PM

It's pretty clear that there's one common thread here: the folks who support PETA really don't like animals. It would appear that if every domestic pet vanished tomorrow, their response would be, "shrug".

That's weird. I don't really understand people who don't like animals. Domesticated animals have been with humans since we were first human. To rail against that is to go against all the instincts that we are bred with. You guys are out of touch with your basic humanity.

I write this with my three very well bred dogs around my desk, sleeping. We're sitting near the door out to our yard, listening to the crickets in the dark. It's what we would have been doing 1000's of years ago, it's what we still do today. I shudder to think of a world or a people who are so wrapped up in themselves or things not of the natural world that they no longer understand the basic pleasure of sitting with animals that you are totally bonded with, listening to the noises in the night.

Posted by: Boom_Boom | September 12, 2007 08:46 PM

How about this? How many dogs in shelters are purebred?? I am betting that the percentage of mutts to purebreds in shelters is a lot higher for mutts. There is nothing wrong with mutts, I love them just as much as any purebred, but the fact of it is... the people who breed for MONEY are the culprits, purebred dog breeders or "designer" mutt dog breeders. Money is the issue here, not the breeder.

Responsible breeders are those who will at all costs look after the well being of the dogs they have produced and will make sure they have a home for as long as they live and will back up their health guarantees.

Those who do not, are the problem breeders and are putting the dogs that are in shelters because they are not being responsible for the pets they have produced into the world.

To lump everyone into a huge generalized group is WRONG!

There are good people, responsible breeders out there. But there will always be people who value money over a life, and THOSE are the ones that should be banned from producing these dog lives because they don't value it, and will not be responsible for them. That is why there are dogs in shelters.

Posted by: Beth | September 12, 2007 08:53 PM

oh and one more thing, if you get a dog from a "reputable/responsible" breeder that has a temperment, behavioural, or genetic health problem, and the breeder does not do anything to help you, replace the dog, or back up their claims as a good breeder, then OBVIOUSLY THE BREEDER IS NOT A RESPONSIBLE or REPUTABLE BREEDER, DUH!!!!!!!!!!!!!!

Posted by: Beth | September 12, 2007 08:59 PM

I probably get 20 or more puppy inquiries a month and seldom have anything to offer. If I produce 3-8 puppies in a year and turn away 235 of the 240 puppy requests, how many of those 235 buy from rescue????

I am not a puppy mill or a backyard breeder. My dogs are health tested before breeding, I only breed on the rare ocassion. My "tidy profit" is swallowed up in dog food, vet bills, health testing, microchipping, training classes, dog show fees, etc.. When I do have puppies to place, the families that we consider are screened extensively with home checks (when possible), face to face interviews, references, etc., and we have it in our contract that we MUST get the puppy back if they can no longer care for it, no matter what the pup's age. I AM a responsible breeder.

The dogs that you find in shelters, while some of them are purebred dogs from backyard breeders and puppymills, the majority are mixed breeds whose original owners couldn't be bothered to fix their bitches or stud dogs and so had "accidental" breedings. They in turn placed an ad in their local paper or on the bulletin at the local supermarket and either sold or gave the puppies (probably WAY too young to leave their siblings) away to people that they had no information on (nor did they give a rats behind as long as those people took their problems away) not knowing if these people had any dog smarts at all or even if they'd ever been convicted of animal abuse before.

If you shut down the responsible hobby breeder, do you honestly think that the problem is going to diminish??? On the contrary, it will only give the back yard breeders and the puppy millers a larger market to sell their poorly bred, inbred, unhealthy, untested puppies to. It will only encourage more dogs to be kept in filthy and disgusting conditions and more puppies to be shipped in cramped, tiny containers (often arriving dead) to large pet stores like Petland, who again, do not screen their potential new ownsers. If the intersted parties have the money, they get the pup regardless as to how irresponsible this may be.

Peta doesn't give a rat's behind about the dogs in shelters either, for that matter. Their true agenda is to rid the world of ANY and ALL pets. Period. These are the very people who were killing healthy, adoptable dogs and cats that they'd just picked up from a shelter and then dumping the bodies into a dumpster. These people, Peta, want to erradicate ALL animals kept as pets. Including seeing eye dogs, service dogs (such as police dogs), dogs for the hearing impaired, etc. So, before you support this organization may I suggest that you research it carefully.

Honestly.... before you jump on the ALL breeders are bad breeders band wagon, consider that #1 responsible breeders NEVER breed for profit. We breed for the betterment of our breed. #2 We screen our potential pet owners carefully and ALWAYS take back puppies if they are no longer wanted (have never had one of my pups come back or turned into a shelter). #3 Our puppies are tattooed and or microchipped to ensure that if they are ever lost, stolen or turned into a shelter or vet clinic that we WILL get them back. #4 We keep in touch with every puppy owner for the life of the puppy to ensure that it is still being loved and cared for and insist on yearly photos and updates. #5 We keep our puppies until at least 8 weeks of age and longer, if necessary, depending on the maturity of the puppies.

This is totally in contrast with puppy millers, back yard breeders and accidental breeders whose only purpose is to make money and get rid of the puppies as quickly as possible and more often than naught, weeks too young.

There IS a difference. A HUGE difference. Go onto the internet. Check out recognized breeders who belong to a local or national club AND the AKC and breeders whose only claim is that their puppies are AKC reg'd. Take a look at the difference between the puppies. You can obviously see the difference between a quality pup and one where little thought or research went into creating the litter.

There IS a difference.... a HUGE difference.

Posted by: Lena | September 12, 2007 09:20 PM

NO - this is WRONG! Dogs in shelters are because people aren't responsible once they GET the animal! They don't want to train, they don't know about personality, they don't want to be bothered! PETA is just perpetuating their myth - instead of admitting THEY are the problem! Teach people to be self-centered, and they won't take care of their pets OR their kids! Oh yes - that's your agenda!!!

Make domestic animals extinct - next comes the human race! SICK!!! I feel sorry for you!

Posted by: Carol | September 12, 2007 09:26 PM

The REAL VILLAIN are people who purchase animals from respectable breeders and then fail to care for them properly, lose interest, or neglected to prepare themselves in the first place. A decrease in demand for these creatures will cause breeders to scale back their breeding programs. (Basic Economics)

There are hundreds of wonderful breeds in the world. Responsible breeders work diligently to maintain healthy blood lines and to produce exemplary specimens that will perpetuate those blood lines into the future. It would be a shame for this age-old right and privilege to cease and for these lovely and unique animals not to be in existence in the future.

In general your anger is misplaced. Yes, there are puppy mills, and the body of responsible breeders at large detest them as much as all of you do. Most responsible breeders either have the animal neutered before placing them in a pet home, or require a spay/neuter agreement from the potential owner before allowing them to take possession of their new pet.

Directing your outrage at breeders in general is illogical. If NO ONE bred any animals and ALL animals were spayed and neutered, then our pets would become extinct. Passing legislation to put ethical breeders out of business is in itself unethical and violates constitutional rights.
Ethical breeders are sensitive to the rights of other people and the animals they produce. Please have an open mind and respect their rights as well.
L in LA

Posted by: L in Louisiana | September 12, 2007 09:38 PM

Diad Hisea said "Adoption: The Only Compassionate Option"

So... all of you who are planning on having children.... DON'T DO IT!!!! That'd be irresponsible!! As long as there are children in this world who are living on the streets and digging in land fill sites for food, having your own child would be a death sentence for some starving orphan somewhere on this planet. We should sterilize EVERYONE and thus end the plight of the homeless.

That pretty much sums up how rediculous mandatory spay/neuter is for EVERY dog, cat, horse, cow, chicken and every other animal (including humans) that PETA is pushing for.

Education along with free or discounted (affordable) spay/neutering....and birth control, NOT legislation is the answer. In BOTH instances.

Posted by: Lena | September 12, 2007 10:40 PM