Every year, millions of animals become homeless. They are strays or surrendered by their owners. They fill animal shelters, rescue groups and humane societies nationwide. Most of these pets are homeless through no fault of their own. Looking for a “pure bred”? They end up in shelters and rescue groups, too! Before you buy, please consider adoption. They all deserve another chance... Read this PDF to learn more about what to look for when buying a pet. Letters: Puppies' housing at pet store doesn't offer best environment With all the controversy since Petland opened, I think another important factor should be considered. What about the quality of life for these puppies? After talking with a Petland employee, I was told the puppies stay in those cages 24/7. How do they get exercise when they can't run or walk any distance? If they aren't sold, they keep them until they are, even if that means they live in cages until they are much older. The isolation from the outside world will mean behavioral problems later on.

New owners will have problems housetraining them, because they are forced to eliminate in their cages, which is against their nature. Also considering the age of these puppies, they must have been taken away from their mothers at an early age, an age that is critical to their social and psychological development.

Compare all this to a reputable breeder whose puppies live in the house, and have a yard where they can get the exercise they need for their physical development. They are started on housetraining, and taken out into the world every day.

They screen buyers and inform them of their breed's characteristics, size and grooming needs. They only breed dogs to improve the breed, not for monetary gain.
I was also informed that Petland's puppies have a "pedigree" and are "AKC registered." This simply means they have a mother, father and grandparents and there is a record of who they are. It does not denote quality.

Please educate yourself before committing 10-15 years of your life to a new puppy. Contact your local dog club or the breed's parent club for a reputable breeder. You will get a healthy, well-socialized puppy that the breeder stands behind for a lot less money, and will help put an end to inferior breeding practices.
Joanne Hjella - Larsen, WIsconsin