PALM BEACH COUNTY, Fla. – Many South Florida pet owners unknowingly buy purebred dogs from stores that source their animals from puppy mills, fueling an industry criticized for inhumane conditions.
Now, a local no-kill shelter is stepping in to give these dogs a second chance.
Tri-County Animal Rescue in Boca Raton has taken in several dogs rescued from puppy mills, including a Yorkie named Cammy and a Shih Tzu mix named June.
Both dogs arrived at the shelter needing urgent care, socialization, and love. Shelter advocates are now calling on the community to adopt, not shop, for pets to help stop the cycle of abuse.
“Puppy mills are not the way to go,” said Natalie Quintero, a shelter volunteer. “June and Cammy came from horrible conditions. They need forever homes where they can finally experience the love they deserve.”
Puppy mills, often characterized by overcrowded cages and lack of proper veterinary care, produce puppies for sale in retail stores or online.
Many of these dogs end up in shelters after families cannot care for them or realize the pets have medical or behavioral issues stemming from poor breeding practices.
Tri-County Animal Rescue operates as a no-kill shelter, meaning animals stay until they find permanent homes. The shelter houses not only former puppy mill dogs but also other abandoned or surrendered animals.
“This is why we always say, ‘Adopt, don’t shop,’” said Local 10′s Animal Advocate Jacey Birch.
Cammy and June, along with many other animals, are now available for adoption. The shelter encourages anyone looking for a pet to visit their website or stop by in person to meet the animals.
Tri-County Animal Rescue is known for its dedication to animal welfare in South Florida.
The shelter is a hub for community outreach, advocating against unethical breeding practices and raising awareness about adoption.
For more information or to view adoptable pets, visit Tri-County Animal Rescue.
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