As the largest rescue and adoption organization in the world, North Shore Animal League America is often called upon to assist or conduct special rescue operations. Sadly, one of our most common rescue efforts is saving dogs from the horrors of puppy mills.
Our next mill dog rescue is scheduled for August 24, 2009 and we’re expecting MORE THAN 100 ANIMALS to arrive at our Port Washington, NY headquarters.
We are currently seeking qualified individuals who live in the NY, NJ, and CT tri-state area willing to donate their time and energy to the cause of helping these animals. We are looking for:
- New York State Licensed Veterinarians
- Experienced Veterinary Technicians (New York State license a plus)
- Groomers
- Foster Care Guardians
We are looking for patient people who live in the NY, NJ and CT tri-state area who love animals and who are willing to open their hearts and homes to these poor animals by becoming foster guardians. A foster guardian will temporarily house the animal, usually for up to 30 days, with the goal of allowing the dog to heal emotionally and physically. Foster parents are the key to a successful adjustment from a fearful, uncared for puppy mill dog to a health, happy, well-socialized family pet. We will provide all the training that you need.
To volunteer, please e-mail CassandraF@AnimalLeague.org and put
“Puppy Mill” in the subject line.
We are also in need of several items to help care for these dogs such as:
- New or gently used towels
- New or gently used washcloths
- New appropriate bones and toys; a list of which can be found here
Puppy mills are commercial facility that breeds dogs specifically for profit. They do not provide appropriate care for the animals they house. Many of these animals have never seen sunlight and most never get to walk on the ground. North Shore Animal League America regularly rescues large groups of dogs from puppy mill operations, many of which are illegal.
In this environment, the animals are void of love, healthcare, socialization, proper nutrition, respect and decency. They are often infested with fleas and mites and have health issues that include ear infections, loss of hearing, eye infections, dental disease, and their feet covered in sores and blisters from walking on hard wire their entire lives.
Puppy mill dogs are special and need the love and care of special people who are kind, patient and who will understand their specific needs. The emotional damage caused by the puppy mill experience can be very difficult to treat.
Most of the physical damage can be treated and eventually healed with proper medical care, but the scars of emotional abuse can be devastating. Please help give a puppy mill dog the life he deserves. Any amount of time is greatly appreciated both by the animals and us, and the rewards will be infinite.
*To learn more about puppy mills, read “What is a Puppy Mill?”
To find out when these dogs will be ready for adoption, please make sure you are signed up to receive our local adoption updates and rescue alerts.
516.883.7575