The San Francisco SPCA joins California Attorney General Rob Bonta in urging pet lovers to adopt from shelters or, if purchasing, to stay vigilant when selecting a breeder. In a new consumer alert, Bonta sheds light on the cruel realities of puppy mills, and the deceptive sales practices of dog and cat sellers, and offers guidance to help protect animals and their future families from predatory sellers.
How to Avoid Deceptive Breeders in California
Deceptive breeders and sellers prioritize profit over the welfare of animals, offering dogs from puppy mills that expose pets to unhealthy and inhumane conditions, or cruelly treating them while they are trying to sell them. The suffering these animals experience can result in serious medical conditions and costly veterinary bills, as well as heartbreaking experiences for new pet owners. Buyers are urged to be cautious and informed to avoid falling victim to these predatory sellers.
California shelters offer an abundance of healthy, loving animals in need of homes. The SF SPCA encourages adoption as the best option, noting that shelters provide a wide variety of pets without the hidden risks of deceptive breeding practices. Dr. Jennifer Scarlett, a veterinarian and CEO of the San Francisco SPCA, stresses that shelters are not only filled with wonderful pets but also often collaborate with overcrowded shelters statewide to give animals a chance at a new life. “There has never been a better time to adopt,” she says, highlighting the importance of helping animals who may otherwise be left behind.
By adopting from shelters or choosing reputable breeders, consumers can ensure they are giving a loving home to a healthy pet while avoiding the pitfalls of fraudulent breeding and sales practices.
“‘I adopted my dogs, Luna and Solí, from a shelter, and they have become deeply cherished members of our family. While I highly encourage Californians to adopt their pets from animal shelters and rescue organizations, consumers who continue to purchase their dogs from breeders should ensure the person they are buying from is responsible, honest, and credible, ’” said Attorney General Rob Bonta.” Tragically and too often, shady breeders only interested in making a profit sell chronically sick, injured, and mistreated puppies to unsuspecting consumers. This is sickening. I urge Californians to be vigilant and watch out for negligent breeders.”
If Californians choose not to adopt from shelters or rescue groups, the attorney general’s alert provides helpful and detailed information on “what to look for” when purchasing animals. Read the full consumer alert here.