In a recent episode of All My Children Wear Fur Coats, Kate Macfall discussed the cruel treatment of animals in massive breeding operations known as Puppy Mills and how The Humane Society of the United States (HSUS) is working to expunge them.
Kate Macfall has served as the Florida state director for The HSUS since 2012. Kate is a lifetime advocate for animal rights who has worked with numerous non-profits to enact protective legislature for pets and wildlife.
Macfall explained that puppy mills prioritize profit over the wellbeing of canines. Large scale breeders often force dogs to live in unsanitary conditions and spend all their time inside a tiny cage. In some circumstances, they are never allowed to see the light of day. Females are bred every heat cycle. After an excruciating life of pumping out puppies, they are typically abandoned or destroyed once they can no longer reproduce. Kate revealed that the HSUS conducts undercover investigations, and the footage they’ve shared on their site is shocking to viewers.
Although this problem exists throughout the United States, Kate noted that it is particularly egregious in Florida. Florida has more puppy-selling pet stores than any other state. Some individuals perceive the banning of puppy mills to be anti-business, but Kate contends that it is anti-cruelty. She understands the importance of protecting businesses but is adamant that a line must be drawn when animals are being abused. Additionally, she pointed out that her research suggests pet supply stores are more profitable when they don’t sell animals.
While Kate works vigorously to get regulations in place, she shared some suggestions for individuals who want to contribute to the cause. Virtually all pet retail stores are supplied by puppy mills, so keep their demand low by staying away from them. Contact your local pet shelter instead. Adopt, don’t shop. Protect your loved pet with a Pet Trust. If you are determined to adopt a specific breed, Kate urges you to visit a responsible breeder or a breed-specific rescue agency. She also encourages listeners to write to their state decision makers and ask them to ban the retail sale of dogs, cats, and rabbits.
If you would like to learn more about the fight to end puppy mills, visit facebook.com/HSUSFlorida
