Puppy mills are commercial dog breeding facilities that prioritize profit over the welfare of the dogs. The dogs are simply a commodity to be sold as quickly as possible to whomever is willing to pay the price. Dogs are often kept in overcrowded and unsanitary conditions, with little to no veterinary care. Dogs are typically kept in small enclosures leading to physical and psychological distress, deprived of any sort of socialization, exercise or enrichment.
The PUPS Act
Passed in the summer of 2024, the PUPS Act is being marketed as “a fix” to Ontario’s puppy mill problem.
This is not true.
The actual PUPS Act legislation is very narrow in scope and nothing has or will change until the government invests in a licensing system to register breeders and brokers.
These facilities often neglect the most basic needs of the animals, resulting in health issues, behavioral problems, and a significantly reduced lifespan. The puppies bred in these environments are often sickly, leading to high vet bills and heartache for unsuspecting buyers. The breeder dogs live in misery and isolation until they are deemed no longer efficient and are then disposed of.
What is the point of having legislation to say what a breeder can and cannot do if the choice was made not to include a mechanism to identify and register who these individuals are.
Enforcement is impossible.
What can you do?
There are several steps you can take to combat puppy mills. First, educate yourself and others about the realities of puppy mills. Spread awareness through social media, community events, or conversations with friends and family. Second, never buy a dog from a pet store or online source that may be selling puppy mill dogs. Instead, consider adopting from a local shelter or rescue group. If you’re looking for a specific breed, reach out to breed-specific rescue organizations.
Lastly, advocate for stricter regulations on commercial dog breeding operations. Contact your MPP and tell them about the problems with Ontario’s animal welfare system. Support local and national legislation aimed at improving the conditions for dogs in breeding facilities. You can also report any suspected puppy mills to your local law enforcement or animal welfare organization. Every action, no matter how small, can make a difference in the fight against puppy mills.
Please contact your member of Provincial Parliament, our animal welfare laws need fixing!!