Today, I want to talk about something serious: why pet stores are HORRIBLE places to buy puppies. I know some of you might be tempted by those cute faces in the window, but trust me, there are many reasons to avoid pet stores and choose shelters instead.
First of all, pet stores often get their puppies from puppy mills, which are horrible places where dogs are bred in cruel and unhealthy conditions. The dogs are kept in tiny cages, deprived of proper care and socialization, and forced to produce litter after litter until they are no longer profitable. Many of them suffer from diseases, genetic defects, and behavioral problems that can affect their quality of life and cost you a lot of money in vet bills.
Credit: aspca.org
Secondly, pet stores are not interested in finding the best match for you and your family. They just want to sell you a puppy as quickly as possible, without giving you any information about its background, personality, or needs. They might even lie to you about the breed, age, or health of the puppy, or pressure you into buying accessories and products that you don't need. You might end up with a puppy that is not suitable for your lifestyle, environment, or expectations. Not to mention that because of the isolated living conditions and separation from parents, Most puppy mill puppies turn out with major behavioral disorders.
credit: faunalytics.org
Thirdly, pet stores contribute to the overpopulation of dogs and the euthanasia of millions of unwanted animals every year. By buying a puppy from a pet store, you are supporting the demand for more puppies from puppy mills, and taking away a chance for a shelter dog to find a loving home. Shelter dogs are not inferior to pet store dogs in any way. They come in all shapes, sizes, breeds, and personalities, and they are just as loyal, smart, and adorable as any other dog. Many of them are already spayed or neutered, vaccinated, and microchipped, which saves you time and money.
Credit: SOCIAL TEES ANIMAL RESCUE
So, the next time you are thinking about getting a puppy, please consider adopting from a shelter instead of buying from a pet store. You will be saving a life, making a difference, and finding a true friend. Thank you for reading this article, and I hope you enjoy my webcomic!
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