It’s the picture-perfect scene: Sweet little Suzy, just turned three, toddles downstairs on Christmas morning to find a brand new puppy with a big red bow under the Christmas tree.
And with the latest charismatic canine movies—Beverly Hills Chihuahua and Marley & Me—hitting the big screen, purebred Chihuahuas and Labrador Retrievers are bound to be on kids’ lists this Holiday Season.
Unfortunately, while the giver may have the best intentions, that cute little purchased pooch most likely will come from a substandard commercial breeding operation, commonly known as a Puppy Mill.
And with the Holiday Season upon us, Puppy Scammers are already now on the prowl, hoping to lure shoppers with endearing photos and phony promises.
If you’re thinking of surprising the family with a new pet for the Holidays, please visit your local animal shelter first.
And please watch the linked video below.
ASPCA President Ed Sayres and Officer Annemarie Lucas, ASPCA Humane Law Enforcement’s Supervisory Special Investigator, have prepared a video message with tips for determining if a pet really is the best gift—and if so, where to find your furry bundle of joy. (Here’s a not-so-subtle hint: your local shelter or rescue group!)
And if you know someone who’s planning to give a pup as a present, please ask them to watch the video, too.
