Humane Society says Petland stores tied to puppy mills

[Giselle]

Oh, I'm not accusing anybody of anything. I've just seen comments regarding the monetary disadvantage of buying pet store puppies and it has always irked me, so I just thought I'd clear that up now vs. later In the end, education is education. Hopefully, eventually, everybody will understand the issues at large =)

[Cataholic]

Giselle,
I think I see your point, somewhat. But, will you elaborate? I think it is an interesting distinction that you make.

I do think I disagree somewhat that this is just about money/ethics. I think it is morally reprehensible/inhumane/irresponsible to breed animals in the BYB or puppy mill situation, money aside. I think it is inhumane to lock an animal in a cage, and essentially breed the life out of it. I think at the heart of it all, I DO think it is wrong (general word) to 'make money' off of another living creature. I think this is different than making money off of an employee, in the employment context, as that human has rights/responsiblities/choices.

But, maybe I just don't see your point as clearly as I should.
Johanna

[Giselle]

I do think I disagree somewhat that this is just about money/ethics.

I never said it was as simple as money. But it definitely is about ethics. Btw, I'm using the word "ethics" in the same manner that you're using "moral", but I figure "ethics" is a less polarizing word to use

The point about caging breeding animals in puppy mills is part of breeding ethics. But the larger point I'm making is this: We have millions and millions and millions of companion quality animals being tossed around the rescue system. A large majority of those animals will never get adopted out. They will get killed. To add insult to injury, BYBs and puppy millers create puppies for the sole purpose of companionship. Thus, in today's vastly overpopulated society, one should only breed an animal to create more exemplary examples of that animal. In other words, if one were breeding a Doberman Pinscher, that Doberman Pinscher should fit the correct type, health, temperament, and possess adequate (preferably, strong) working ability. In other words, a breeder should only breed to "better" the breed. In essence, it'd be unethical to produce puppies for the sole purpose of companionship when there are millions of companion-quality puppies languishing in shelters. But BYB's and PM's totally disregard this, and this is the ethical dilemma I'm talking about.

So when people try to convince others not to buy pet store animals simply because those animals may harbor health issues/they may cost more with vet bills, it's sidestepping the larger issue. And it also opens up the door for a lot of anecdotal "Well, I bought my dog from a pet store and he's perfectly healthy" arguments. So THAT is my gripe.

[Cataholic]

And, now I see your distinction clearly. And, I could not agree more. Thanks for the extra information.