why i shouldn’t t adopt dogs from pet stores?

Adopting dogs from pet stores is often discouraged because most of them come from puppy mills, which are mass breeding facilities known for poor conditions. Here’s why you should avoid pet store dogs, backed by real facts:

1. Most Pet Store Dogs Come from Puppy Mills
   • The Humane Society of the United States (HSUS) reports that 90% of pet store puppies come from puppy mills, where they are bred in overcrowded, unsanitary conditions with little medical care.
   • The ASPCA states that puppy mills prioritize profit over the well-being of animals, leading to genetic disorders and behavioral issues.
2. Health and Behavioral Problems
   • A study published in the Journal of the American Veterinary Medical Association (JAVMA) found that pet store puppies have a higher risk of infections, parasites, and congenital diseases compared to dogs from responsible breeders or shelters.
   • Puppies raised in stressful environments often develop anxiety and behavioral issues, making training more difficult.
3. Adopting Saves Lives
   • According to the American Society for the Prevention of Cruelty to Animals (ASPCA), around 390,000 dogs are euthanized each year in U.S. shelters. Choosing adoption helps reduce these numbers.
4. Pet Store Prices Are Inflated
   • Pet stores overcharge for puppies, sometimes selling mixed breeds as “designer dogs” for thousands of dollars, while shelters and rescues offer fully vetted dogs for a fraction of the cost.

What’s the Better Alternative?

• Adopt from a shelter or rescue (ASPCA, Humane Society, local rescues).
• If you want a specific breed, choose a reputable breeder who follows ethical breeding practices and allows visits to their facilities.