Thanks guys--goin' to check out the links now.

I can not believe these (Petland) creeps actually colaborate with the puppymill owners!

Just to clarify , I (unfortunately) do know the horrors of puppymills. I understand, supporate, and congratulate those who work hard to stop the pain, suffering, and abuse of pet store critters, but the question that weighs heavily on my mind...

Who saves the Pet Store Puppies, Kitties, Bunnies?

The root of the problem lies in greed (more bang for the buck--more pups per litter) and a general lack of concern for the animals' wellbeing (no spay/neuter operation, no shots, no LOVE). There seems to be alot of attention at the beginning (puppymill) and the end (shelter) of the cycle....but at what point do we focus on the pets who are presently *IN* the pet store? (Please don't get me wrong, I have nothing but applause and well wishes for rescue/shelter pets placed in good homes.)

I'll readily admit that Sophie came from a pet store and by doin' so, I'll also admit to being part of the problem. I knew the "pet store" game of buying from bad breeders (*though at the time, I did not know that they bought bunnies WAY BEFORE 6wks of age). However, Sophie was soo tiny and soo sick that I just could not leave her there. (eek! here come the tears...) I know I was/am a part of the problem by purchasing her from a pet store. I can't explain the spark that happened between us, but I knew I couldn't leave her there to die or become snake food.

...I apologize...I can't finish this post right now... gotta go get tissues 'n dry my eyes