Hope

This Blog is for the love of Hope.

Hope is a five month old puppy that was recently rescued from a pet store chain called Pet Habitat.

Pet Habitat had purchased her (and all their other dogs) from a large company in the US called "The Hunte Corporation".
The Hunte Corporation bought her from a dirt shack puppy mill for approx $300-.
Yet we bought her under the premise that she is a certified "purebred" of high standards...certificate and all.
She was discounted for us to $1188-...Because she was "As is"...a damaged dog.

Hope is one of hundreds of puppies that are transported across the continent by the truckload. This Shopping mall pet store is selling each one to the tune of $2600-. But they aren't selling. They are too expensive. Hope was five months old when we rescued her from her cage. She pees when she is touched and she bites uncontrolably simply because she doesn't know any better. She had never been socialized. The puppies never touch each other.

The city pound says that if they were to rescue a dog who had been in a cage for as long as she had been there, sitting in a cage the size of hers, they would put her to down. They call her behavior problems "kennel crazy" If she were to have been adopted by anyone with fragile skin or small children, this beautiful innocent puppy would be a liability.

Hope has now been rescued and is now receiving intensive one on one love and training from a 24/7 American Eskimo trainer.

She is a lucky puppy. But Soooooo many others are not.

When they don't sell.... where do they go?

Comments from CBC Site

Hope's story is an old one. Pet stores like Pet Habitat and Pj's Pets have been selling puppies for over two decades, yet because of the short amount of time spent IN their stores, the plight of these puppies is continuing un-noticed. And the puppies are SO cute. How could the situation be ugly? -It is...more ugly than you can imagine.

Imported by the thousands, puppies are dying of debilitating issues and growing up in their cages. Legislation needs to be created banning the mass market of these little lives. They are not food, or Guchi Hand bags. And they should certainly NOT be for sale at a price range of $2600 to $1000-.

The Shopping mall pet stores have to be stopped.

These are comments from the CBC Marketplace show. This is a small example the concerns:

I just watched CBC's Marketplace with Wendy Mesley, concerning PJ's in Toronto and Pet Habitat in British Columbia. I was not aware of the Hunt Corporation in Missouri and the conditions the puppies are subjected to. As a Canadian, I am appalled that the government doesn't do more to prevent the puppies from "immigrating" over the border. Are there not enough reputable breeders in Canada to supply the Canadian retailers with healthy puppies?
As a Permanent Resident of the United States I am once again disgusted by yet another story of "puppy breeding" in America. Whether it's a mill or a factory, it's all supply and demand, and who really pays the price.
V. Bechard
Posted by vbechard on March 6, 2009 09:53 PM

A reputable breeder ALWAYS wants to know what kind of family their puppy is going to be a part of, never uses a middle man,and doesn't necessarily sell you a puppy just because you are shopping for one.
Why do people buy on impulse from pet stores and not do their homework first? The only way to stop pet stores
from buying these poor puppies is to stop buying them at pet stores!
Posted by Jeannette Hargreaves on March 6, 2009 10:02 PM

Bravo, "Marketplace"!! As a professional dog groomer, in Toronto, I cannot tell you the number of pet-store puppies (PJ's for one eg.) I have seen in my 10+ years in the business. The majority are not well bred, not overly healthy, and have numerous behavioural problems. I have been "asked to leave" PJ's when I started questioning (politely) the pedigree of a certain breed of dog, of which I know very well. They showed me a piece of paper, with four generations of dog names...all supposedly AKC (American Kennel Club)registered. There was no way to prove the existence of these named dogs, and they are banking that most people won't even notice the difference between a "certificate of pedigree" and a "certified pedigree" complete with seal and stamp of the issuing kennel club. i.e. a way to actually follow-up on the pup's ancestry. (Getting off soap box, for now)
Posted by Marilyn Zeldin on March 6, 2009 10:17 PM

Hello,
How can people be so blind by these pet stores ? I am really glad that you aired this show as people need to know where they are really getting their puppies from.
Thanks for airing this show.
Posted by Marcy on March 6, 2009 10:19 PM

Thank you for your story on the puppy mill puppies.
I am aware of these problems and would never consider purchasing any animal from a pet store.
Why wouldn't you question the price of these unfortunate animals when considering getting a pet. If people would boycott these places en mass I am sure it would not take long for them to go out of business. The humane societes certainly have pets that need loving homes.
I am puzzled on how this can still go on and people seem to accept the horrible conditions endured by these animals.
Hopefully this story will help in putting some of these places out of business.
Posted by Elaine Fraser on March 6, 2009 10:24 PM

Like most viewers I was saddened and horrified by tonight's show, though unfortunately not surprised. Mixed in with this reaction, however, was frustration. I am continually stunned that people continue to be taken in by pet store's claims that that their animals come from so-called reputable breeders. This claim in an of itself should be a red flag. No reputable breeder would ever EVER sell their puppies to a pet store.
It is time for potential dog owners to take responsibility. Don't buy from the pet store. You are not 'rescuing' the dog from what is admittedly, a sad situation Every puppy bought in a pet store only provides more incentive for places like Hunte. Refuse to participate and hopefully stories like those of Hope and Dinglehopper will be a thing of the past.
Posted by Heather Istace on March 6, 2009 10:25 PM

Great episode. I hope now more people are aware o!!f pet store puppy's. hope this episode will air again, or even a second part.
Posted by Glen Hanhams on March 6, 2009 10:27 PM

I recently assisted in a puppy mill seizure operation. The dogs were traumatized from living in rabbit-hutch sized cages, they stunk of ammonia and many were immobilized by their thick matts. These dogs were sold over the Internet, I saw the misleading ads that the breeder put out--happy dogs romping thru the grass, and to pet stores. These dogs are lucky, they were rescued, they will be cared for and socialized and homed in loving forever homes. Tens of thousands others are not so lucky. People, wake up! DO NOT BUY FROM PET STORES OR OVER THE INTERNET! Ask yourself, what does "reputable" breeder mean? How can that be quantified or verified? If you love animals, there are thousands of them in rescue groups and in shelters who need a home. Please don't buy while shelter animals die.
Posted by Essbee on March 6, 2009 10:35 PM

How many shows, articles etc. do people have to see before they get it through their heads that puppies sold in pet stores come from dubious backgrounds and most likely originate from puppy mills!
As a dog owner who has gone through reputible breeders registered with the CKC or have rescued dogs through the pound or rescue organizations, it amazes me that consumer are part of the problem of supply and demand....the more people purchase from pet stores the more they will continue to sell puppies that are overpriced and more than likely have various health problems.
I used to go in to pet stores in Toronto and advise consumers to spend a few bucks on a magazine that lists breeders then to plunk their money down on an over priced pup that chances were would only bring them heartache along with an empty wallet. Save a rescue or use a reputable breeder with the CKC,DON'T GO TO A PETSTORE.
Posted by Barbara Thompson on March 6, 2009 10:40 PM

I would also add that this breeder was quite normal looking. Most people would say they looked to be 'reputable'. Normal house, normal neighbourhood, normal town. The inside of their house was typical suburban. That is where they showed their dogs. The rest of the time, the miserable animals were crammed into stinking, feces-encrusted rabbit hutches. The breeding moms and papas likely never set foot on solid ground or saw the light of day.
Posted by Essbee on March 6, 2009 10:48 PM

Furthermore, I will never buy pet products from a store that deals in the sale of puppies. I can provide for my dogs without
giving any of my business to stores who are part of the problem...
Posted by Barbara Thompson on March 6, 2009 10:50 PM

Cudos to CBC's Marketplace for bringing this issue to the public's attention. As an avid dog lover and active volunteer for foster dogs from the local Humane Society, a number of points rang true in this feature. Two in particular bear special mention.
The first being that responsibly bred animals are not sold through pet stores, period. Reputable breeders adhere to a code of ethics that dictate they carefully screen the potential buyer.
The second being the behavioural issues that arise from pups that are taken away too young from their litter and dam. These issues are difficult to deal with if the pup has not had the proper start.
As a buyer don't settle for anything less than an open invitation to see the dogs in their environment and a frank discussion about health and the genetic background of your potential new family member. Your dog will thank you for your diligence!
Posted by H.L.Coulter on March 6, 2009 10:53 PM

I'm RAHT (registered animal health tech.) in victoria BC and I can't tell you how many times I've seen puppies of all breeds from the pet store CREATURES,come in to the facility I worked at with a very serious virus called "parvo" it causes puppies in to have diarrhea, sometimes bloody and there's vomiting, lethargy and severe dehydration. It can also lead to death. this virus can be prevented with a series of puppy vaccines (three). Often what happens is the "breeder" gives the puppy it's first vaccine and then sends it on it's way to the pet store and then the owner is responsible for the final two shots or final shot. But unfortunately due to the traveling, often poor living conditions and then finally a new home with a new family, the immune system just cannot handle the stress and an unvaccinated puppy becomes extremely sick.
Posted by melissa on March 6, 2009 10:53 PM

Thank you for this expose on pet store puppies and puppy mills. I hope you will replay this and educate people that they should never buy from a petstore. A well bred dog, from a reputable breeder will cost them less money. And they can meet the breeder and see the parents and ask for health testing. Reputable breeders registered with the Canadian Kennel Club will be able to provide a picture history as well as documented health test reports on the ancestors of the puppy. And they will cost far less than a commercial pet store. Thank you again for this report. There are good breeders out there, and people need to do their homework and not buy dogs from a store like a loaf of bread
Posted by Diana Kinnear on March 6, 2009 10:57 PM

Hello
I have made the same mistake I bought from a pet store as well. Pet Land! My little angel has had many surguries for her luxating pattela. Roxie is her name. She has had soooo many problems since we have had her. I can not stand to watch these people get rich doing this to these animals. What can I do to help stop this?? I have spent a small fortune on Roxie trying to make her life better. She should not have to go through all the pain and suffering she does. Please plaes let me know what I can do to help.
Yours truly
Cheryl Penny
Posted by cheryl penny on March 6, 2009 10:58 PM

Wendy did a very good job of profiling the problem. It was very representative of the situation and a much needed look behind those cute little puppies in the pet store window. Please keep up the pressure and let's get this insanity stopped.
I too bought a dog from PJ Pets (Yorkdale) in 1994 and another from Doogans (Barrie) in 1996 and the found out they came from mills in the midwest US. Appalled, I have been trying to educate people not to repeat my mistakes ever since.
Keep up the good work.
Posted by Hilary Dorricott on March 6, 2009 11:04 PM

The puppy "industry" is just that. It sickens me and many others that the government of Canada does not have strict rules and regulations regarding the sale of puppies for profit. Just like any other "industry". Especially those crossing our boarders from the U.S. It is well known, but ignored, that these stores sell puppymill puppies yet so called Watchdogs fein innocence....please...If you are being paid to do this job then do it properly. Marketplace can.
Posted by Nicola on March 6, 2009 11:12 PM

Loved the show tonight. I however was not one of the shocked people. I have heard of puppy mills for years. What I don't understand is how a person can pay so much for the pet store pups ($2500!!). I recently purchased my pure bread, CKC registered, international championship parented, genetically tested parented, with a contract stating I get a new pup if mine has any major problems, standard poodle for $1500 from a breeder. I met both of the parent dogs, and was at the bitches home when the puppies were 5 weeks old. I could not stress enough on going with a breeder, and also I could not stress enough peoples' responsibility to do their homework. Visit the whelping area to find out how clean they keep the puppies, and how much socialization they get right off.
I feel sorry for all of the people who got sucked into the pet stores...
Posted by Michelle on March 6, 2009 11:28 PM

Thank you Marketplace for investigating this horrible problem in the pet industry, and I hope you air it again. Where there is no demand, there will be no supply. PEOPLE! DO NOT BUY DOGS/CATS FROM PET STORES!!!
Posted by Christina on March 6, 2009 11:37 PM
Well that was an eye-opener! I am sure a lot of people out there, including myself, were unaware of the conditions the cute little doggie in the window lived in prior to and you might as well call it a Breeding Warehouse Facility- Big Business. No wonder puppies bought from Pet Stores have multiply health issues from continous inbreeding, terrible kennel conditions (I should just say wire cages), etc...
Posted by Janice Bowlen on March 6, 2009 11:47 PM

It's not uncommon for breeders to say their dogs are registered a with a kennel club. I don't know about the CKC but the AKC does little or nothing to prevent such abuses from occuring. Some major puppy mill busts in the U.S. recently--the breeders had lovely websites saying their dogs were AKC and some of them probably were, at some time.
Caveat emptor. "Reputable breeder" is a term that is used loosely and there are NO ENFORCED AND MONITORED STANDARDS.
Posted by Essbee on March 6, 2009 11:51 PM

Thank you marketplace!
I have been working very hard for a number of years to encourage friends and family to NOT shop for animals. I have seen many undercover puppy mill operations online and have been exposing each and every one to as many people as possible. This broadcast is yet another that I will refer friends and family to view. Unfortunately, thousands of dogs are purchased yearly from these deplorable conditions and to be quite honest, I'm sick of it. It's time for us all to put an end to these kinds of operations.
Here's food for thought... don't shop... ADOPT!
Rachael Bowdridge
St. John's, Newfoundland
Posted by Rachael Bowdridge on March 7, 2009 12:02 AM

I was disgusted to learn about this. It is an act of animal cruelty and if the government is aware of it, I don't see why they allow it. I wish I knew about this before I bought my puppy from a pet store. For any people who work in places like the Hunte Corporation or breed there dogs in this manner are sick. I am extremely disgusted and saddened and I will do everything I can to warn people about this.
Posted by Kyley on March 7, 2009 12:07 AM

Thank you for airing this program as it illustated how the public is constantly duped by pet stores. Sadly, however, you failed to point out that a dog with an easily generated pedigree is NOT purebred. Only a certificate of registration from the Canadian Kennel Club or the American Kennel Club guarantees a purebred dog.
The examples shown were poor representatives of the breed and would make one suspect they are not purebred (and likely haven't been for a few generations). If you want a dog you have two choices - the local shelter or a responsible breeder who tests their stock and who breeds first for themselves.
Posted by J.E. Jefferson on March 7, 2009 12:13 AM

The vast majority of pet store puppies are healthy, happy and problem free. The vast majority of breeders who provide these puppies are responsible animal lovers who trust the pet store to care for their puppies during the placement process. Pet stores are a legitimate source for potential pet owners who want a responsibly bred animal from a professional kennel with a comprehensive health and development warranty. Most pet stores will pay for warranty related health issues. This is an important service. Most breeder warranties do not - they will offer to replace your pet with another animal. This story does a disservice to potential pet owners who will now avoid a safe and legitimate source for puppies, turning instead to the internet or other dubious sources, and a disservice to the vast majority of reputable pet stores who place animals responsibly and ethically into the community
Posted by Robert Church on March 7, 2009 12:51 AM

I can only hope that someday, somehow, some way, people will finally get it: pet stores do not sell healthy dogs. CKC registered breeders can not sell their puppies through stores. If you think you're getting a CKC registered dog at a PJ Pets or some other pet store you're wrong. What most people don't realize is that a carefully, responsibly bred purebred from health checked lines cost far less than what you hand over to these stores. Are you thinking about adding a dog to your family? A living, breathing, feeling creature? Start here: www.ckc.ca Research the breeds. Find breeders in your area. Go to dog shows in your area and talk to breeders and owners, find out the good and the bad about the breeds you're interested in. Breeders care who they put their puppies with. Go to rescue organizations or shelters. Just don't go to "pet stores". Please.
Posted by T Dean on March 7, 2009 01:16 AM

I just watched your show and I am disturbed beyond belief. I went into Pet Habitat and they told me that ALL of their puppies come from the Hunte Corporation and that they NEVER buy puppies from Canadian Breeders.
Because it was the only way to "guarantee" the "purity" of the genetic line...
Posted by Anne on March 7, 2009 01:34 AM

This is simply heart breaking. Unfortunately for every person that cares for living creatures... there are people that do not. Pet stores like any other stores are out to make money. Make the effort to do research on the pets you plan to own and care for.
Posted by Elle on March 7, 2009 01:54 AM

Just as bad a petstores is buying any kind of animal from the back of a truck. I had a friend do this and, though she was lucky and got a healthy dog, how can anybody possibly know for sure? Do you really think this guy is going to be there if you have a complaint? Its time people started using their heads when making purchases of any kind and not their hearts. After all, have you ever seen an ugly puppy or kitten?
Thanks too for the $10 tip. Im going to keep it in mind when I go shopping tomorrow. I have a store here in my town (Wholesale club) try to tell me they werent obliged to refund me for an incorrect purchase because it was over the 14 day limit. I told them it was their mistake and my money and if they wanted to stay out of the limelight they'd better cough up. They did!
Great shows
Posted by Christina Hallam on March 7, 2009 03:14 AM

This is an excellent show, but only a first step. If the public want change, it takes only a few words in the right place.

Tell your friends about the show. For everyone who saw it, a dozen didn't. Share the knowledge you gained. When the topic of pets comes up, take the opportunity to mention the problems of pet store pets and to promote shelter adoption. If you have a shelter animal, brag.

Talking up the problem raises awareness, especially in the age of the internet. Blogging, twittering and messaging have a huge impact: use them.

If you want to do more, you can volunteer or donate to a shelter. A big return for a small investment.
Posted by Cathrine on March 7, 2009 04:45 AM

This show made me so mad! I can't believe that people would do this kind of thing for a living! I bought my dog 8 1/2 years ago from a pet store and later watched a show on Puppy Mills, I took her to the Vet right away! I'm so lucky that she is in good health, but would never buy any animal unless it was from a breeder and see where the animals live and the parents should be on site as well. This was my first dog and I love her more than words can say. I was lucky but the people I was watching on your show last night could have been me. I feel so bad for them. I can't believe that the government could sit back and let this happen. This should not be allowed to go on! The people who do this do not have any kind of regard for life! They are the lowest form of life there is on the planet! They have to be shut down and never be allowed to own any animals at all! Your show made an impact!
Posted by Joanne Osborne on March 7, 2009 06:43 AM

I am a breeder of purebred, CKC registered Miniature Schnauzers and recently had a client that unfortunately for her purchased not one but two puppies from Pet-A-Rama. One of the puppies died from VWB (a bleeding disorder)after being spayed and the other had seizures and had to be euthinized (sp) both at around 6 months of age. They had no recourse with the store. It is the old story - the puppy looked so cute I couldn't walk away and this is exactly what these pet stores rely on for business.
I went into this store when they first opened and asked about their guarantee on the puppies they sold - their comment was they don't have guarantees because their puppies are all healthy!!!!! I have never been in that store again.

I would love to see your program repeated and perhaps a sequel done with actual breeders of CKC registered dogs showcased.
Posted by S. Brownridge on March 7, 2009 06:54 AM
I purchased a Chi-Pom mix from PJ's in August of 2008. He has had terrible problems with his legs due to lax-patellas. Also, I noticed when I got him home that he was missing a toe. He has some unidentified deficiency that causes him to crave to eat the feces of other animals. It has been really disturbing and challenging. I cannot let him enjoy the yard without having to supervise him constantly. I am so glad that you did this program. I had no idea that this was going on. No wonder Chino, my dog is so sick.
Posted by Andrea Ward on March 7, 2009 07:58 AM

Bravo! Hopefully your expose on pet stores will air a few more times to make even more people aware of where those puppies come from. I knew that you should never buy from the stores for those reasons but was unaware that the puppies were being mostly brought in from the states. I was glad that the provincial laws were clamping down on the puppy mills here in canada but I see now our import laws will have to be looked at. Thank again for the insight.
Posted by Liz on March 7, 2009 08:00 AM

It's not only sick puppies that are coming from PJ's. I once bought a guinea pig and ended up spending over $200 at a vet because he had ring worm which is highly contagious to both animals and humans!! I no longer support or make any purchase from PJ's and encourage everyone else to do the same.
Posted by Vicki Penney on March 7, 2009 09:15 AM

Excellent episode,

The phrase "caveat emptor" has never been so important. Dog breeder, through "line breeding" (inbreeding) have so corrupted the most popular breeds that the list of genetic faults is almost endless. Before you buy, find out everything that can go wrong with a breed and decide to live with it, or not. The sickest puppy I ever bought (giardia etc) came from one of the most prestigious breeders at the time. Not a pet store.

Do your homework!
Posted by Rick Roberts on March 7, 2009 09:18 AM

Well done Marketplace!!! Information like this is necessary to bring the horrors that these poor creatures and their sires & dams must endure to the public. When purchasing a puppy, the buyer should be able to meet the dam(mother) and occasionally the sire(father)as well. Buyers should be able to see the area where the puppies are raised as well as be able to interact with the dam and/or any other dogs on the premises. Records of health testing should be available to view or sometimes be posted to the OFFA site, but no matter how, it should always be available to the puppy buyers. Registration is required by Federal Law in Canada when you sell a dog as a "purebred". This registration must be done by an acceptable registry such as the Canadian Kennel Club (CKC).
Posted by Yvonne Poole on March 7, 2009 09:23 AM

I find it disgusting that pet stores are willingly partici[pating in the sale of puppy mill dogs. They play dumb and turn a blind eye - they know full well where these poor animals come from. They not only need to be held accountable and financially reponsible for these animals - they need to STOP . They also need to be forced by law to spay or neuter before adoption to put and end to the overwhelming, needless deaths of unwanted animals. People need to boycott pet stores that sell animals.
Posted by Sarah Parker on March 7, 2009 09:36 AM

With attempts at the border to tighten regulations on puppy mill imports from the US, the mill opportunities have opened up here in Canada. Quebec is apparently the puppy mill capital. But anyone can just set up shop...
Posted by Jan on March 7, 2009 09:38 AM

I find it very interesting that so much research is done on bad breeders, who and where NOT to buy a puppy but as a person looking where do I go. there is never anything I can remember on a program on good ethical breeders. Home breeders, who spend hours training, socializing and loving their puppies. Maybe someone should show the puppy buyer what they look like . Novel idea hey?
Posted by Heather Vallance on March 7, 2009 09:44 AM

We were given a puppy from a young couple who said they could not care for this dog. He was 3 months old and after a couple of weeks we noticed a limp. It has gotten progressively worse, we were told xrays probably wouldn't show anything til about a year old. He may have a genetic shoulder problem needing surgery. We can't afford this, but watching him limp day after day is heart-breaking.
This genetic problem should have been picked up by PJ's or Hunte Corp. if they looked at the history of the parents.
The dog is a Yellow Lab and he is now 8 months old.
Posted by chris on March 7, 2009 09:54 AM

On June 10th 1996 my wife and I made the mistake of buying a puppy from PJ's at Yorkdale. In the first week we spent $1500.00 fixing numerous health issues and this continued over the next 11.5 years of Cody's life. But we loved Cody so much, and we always made sure he had the best of everything,I had never owned a more affectionate and gentle dog. Over the course of his life he developed Colitis,Pancreatic Insufficiency,Diabetes,a heart murmur and eventually stomach cancer.The cost of Vet bills over his life time exceeded $70,000.00, but for us,doing everything to keep him well and give him the best quality of life we could for such a courageous little dog was worth it. But in reality no Pet owner should have to go through that,I blame poor breeding standards and Stores like PJ's who show little compassion not juist for the Pets but also for the owners.In memory of Cody 12/24/2008.
Posted by Stephen Rosevear on March 7, 2009 09:57 AM

Wendy Mesley and CBC's Marketplace, thank you for this most informative investigative report. It must have been terribly frustrating for Wendy while interviewing Louis McCann of Pijac. He did two things: ... b)he said they don't stay in the hutches all their lives, he forgot to mention that the puppies parents do from birth to death! c) he did not have an answer for the rest of the questions...
Let's be very clear, it is in the best interest of Pijac that pet stores sell puppies. He can't possibly not know that these puppies come from puppy mills, as no reputable breeder would sell his puppies to a pet store. There should be a national ban on puppy mills and the sale of pets in pet stores. The millers are part of the underground economy and the government is giving them the green light to do business.
Posted by Nicole Joncas on March 7, 2009 10:01 AM

Though it is great that Marketplace would expose pet stores buying practices, there was no mention of the "right way" to get a dog. Consumers think that you go to a pet store to get a dog, and no alternatives were proposed.
As a volunteer for an animal rescue in Quebec, I see that the average Canadian has no idea about rescue or adopting animals. Thousands of animals put down every week across Canada -- most with no health problems at all.
More than just stopping buying animals at puppy mills, it is very important to get the word out that adoption is the best option.
Posted by Chris on March 7, 2009 10:06 AM

I know of someone who paid $3,000 for a boxer puppy, and someone else who paid $5,000 for a Dogue deBordeaux pup, using P.J.s pets financing and monthly payments. Aside from this being a ridiculous amount to pay for a pet-quality pup (even a purebred), neither person wound up keeping them. No serious health issues, just too much dog for them. The Dogue DeBordeaux pup was taken to a vet to be euthanized at 14 weeks of age! It wound up surrendered to the Vet clinic and rehomed. The buyers were still on the hook for the full purchase price though..,
Posted by Luan on March 7, 2009 10:13 AM

Thank you for this story. While individual breeders vary in terms of conscientiousness, it is wonderful to see that large scale operations are being examined. There is no way that the Hunt Corporation can provide the loving environment that is necessary to produce a well socialized puppy. Dogs are not livestock. They are accepted into most families almost on a level equal to a child, and educating the general public is the most effective way to shut down poor quality breeders and those who would take advantage of the quest for a loving creature to share with one's life.

Please don't stop there. How about a look at what goes into producing a happy, healthy puppy. Compare private breeders who put their health testing out for all to see on the Orthopedic Fondation for Animals website and are willing to commit themselves to the puppies they produce.
Thank you. Rita Thomas
Posted by Rita Thomas on March 7, 2009 10:44 AM

Kudos to marketplace for doing such a fabulous job on such a horrific problem. People are taken everyday by these unscrupuloous dealers of canine flesh.
Truly this is one place that desperatly needs regulation.
More fine honest programs like this need to be aired.
Thank you again marketplace.
Sheila Robillard
Posted by Sheila Robillard on March 7, 2009 10:48 AM

Thank you for again reminding people that buying a pet from a pet store is not a good idea. Unfortunately these stores rely on impulse buyers. Perhaps a followup feature on how to find a well bred, stable and healthy puppy is needed. People need to know that there are reputable breeders and shelters out there who care about their little charges. They need to remeber that they are going to be responsible for a life for the next 10 to 15 years and a little research and thought will go a long way to make the experience positive for all.
Posted by Josee Veltman on March 7, 2009 11:12 AM

Excellent expose on pet shop puppies! Unfortunately, the cute factor sells puppies and until the sale of puppies in pet stores is banned, people will continue to fall for the adorable 'puppy in the window'. I think people believe they are saving the puppy from the small glass box in the pet shop, but they don't realize that every time they purchase a puppy, one more is being born in a puppy mill. There are lots of reputable breeders in Canada who charge a lot less than pet shops and they guarantee the health of the puppies they sell and screen buyers to be sure they're going to the best of homes.

I'd love to see Marketplace go one step further and debunk the 'hybrid vigour' hogwash of so called 'designer dogs' i.e. doodles, poochi's, maltipoos, etc. A mutt by any other name is still a mutt.
Posted by Lori Silverthorne on March 7, 2009 11:23 AM
The only way to stop this evil trade is boycott ALL the stores that sell live animals. Buy nothing from them and tell the staff why you will not purchase from them. Do not even buy food or pet accessories from them. Pass it on to your friends and ask them to pass it on. Demand feeds the supply; do NOT buy a puppy because you feel sorry for it. If you do YOU are part of the problem.
Reputable breeders NEVER sell their puppies to pet stores.
Posted by Sue Morecroft on March 7, 2009 11:27 AM

I have to agree with other, this was a great show, I have known that pet shops get their pups from these types of places for years, and and happy to see any show that will open others peoples eyes. I fail to believe that Louis McCann of PIJAC Canada did no know that this is where these places get puppies from, and if it is true then he needs to be replaced with someone who knows his job better.
People need to clue into the fact that buying a pup from these places is not "rescuing" it is letting the puppymillers know to breed more puppies because there are more suckers.
The sooner that laws are passed preventing the sale of puppies and kittens in pet shops the better.
Posted by Tina on March 7, 2009 11:37 AM

It is a known fact that the "Hunte Corporation" buys from Puppy Mills, mostly in the USA. They should be SHUT DOWN, not P.J's who just need to buy locally instead of from a "Puppy Broker" which Alberta PJ's does already.This episode of Marketplace contains misinformation. The American Eskimo featured is an older pup that could easily be "Peeing Submissively" because of something the owner is doing wrong handling it. The Vet called it "Submissive Peeing" because it was doing it in its bed"? That sounds like "Urinary Incontinence", not "Submissive Urination" which is usually caused not by a medical problem but how the owner is handling the pup! Wrong diagnosis here? Now for the DOG TRAINER.The papers he is talking about pertains to Breeds such as German Shepherds who are Purebreds with known Hip/Elbow problems so those parent dogs need to be tested, not all other breeds require testing.
Posted by Toni Patrick on March 7, 2009 12:06 PM

Thank you Marketplace for airing this program on the real origins of pet store puppies! I hope this will go a long way towards educating people on why they should never buy a puppy from a pet store, and should instead seek out one from a reputable breeder. A reputable breeder would never knowingly allow one of their puppies to be sold through a pet store. Perhaps the answer is to ban all pet stores from selling puppies?
Posted by A. Dabb on March 7, 2009 12:09 PM

too many people stick their heads into the sand when it comes to pet store puppies. Thank you.
Posted by Gail on March 7, 2009 12:10 PM

I was disappointed that they did not mention that sick, inbred and genetically ill puppies do not only come from the US. Stores can easily refute everything this documentary says by simply saying their puppies do not come from the US. Yet Quebec has over 2,000 active puppy mills and is a supplier to many Canadian and American brokers/pet stores. All Canadian provinces have a good number of puppy mills and not-so-reputable breeders that supply our retail pet stores and flea markets. Marketplace should have traced some Canadian dogs or at the very least, mentioned that it is not strictly an American problem.
Posted by AC on March 7, 2009 12:10 PM

Your checklist is a good beginning - but only that. There is so much more that people should be asking.
How long have you been breeding/raising this breed?
What guarantees come with the puppy?
Are the parents on the premises & can i see them?
What criteria do you use to match puppies with homes?
On what basis did you choose to breed the parents?
What type of temperament do the parents have?
Has either parent ever had a health problem?
What health checks do the parents have?
What activities to you partake in with your dogs?
and I could go on. Do your research - look up "Selecting A Breeder" on the internet - much information is available.
Posted by Shelley on March 7, 2009 12:18 PM

This is an excellent report on purchasing puppies from Pet Stores. Too often these purchases are spur of the moment because the puppy is soooo cute. That is what these sellers count on and the more pet stores sell puppies the more they are bred by corporations to fill the niches. The purchase of a dog is a lifetime commitment and buying from a reputable breeder helps ensure that your dog is healthy and there will be someone there to help you if a problem does arise.I am amazed thta the gentleman from the agency that oversees Pet Stores professed not to be aware of how the Hunte Corp. houses its puppies.
Please repeat this story closer to Christmas!
Posted by Kathy Fleming on March 7, 2009 12:34 PM

As a dog owner, I did my homework, and was pleased to find that the breeder was very interested in where she was sending her puppy. We went to her, saw where the dogs were housed, and were impressed. The breeder has always been supportive in the almost 3 years we have had our dog. What is wrong with our gov't, allowing dogs to be shipped from another country? We are not allowed to take a pet into another country without a perfect bill of health. I agree there are enough breeders here in Canada to more than supply the need, and at a much cheaper price than in Pet Stores! What can I do to help? Is there anyone I can call, email to show my displeasure of this cruelty to animals?
Posted by Barbara Stewart on March 7, 2009 01:00 PM

I have worked at a pet store...
and I'm not sure why, when going undercover, the sales associate was saying it's of true 100% pedigree.
I know that at my store, we were told to push the fact that these are NOT show dogs. Average everyday people would come into the store, because their dog at home accidentally had puppies and they would bring them in because they didn't want to leave them on the street or send them to an animal shelter. Also, the buyer for our store took tons of contact information from the breeders... and it wasn't like the breeders were bringing in twenty dogs every week. It was a litter every once in a while.
I know when you raise 40 puppies all together in one store, there is bound to be problems, believe you me, there were viruses that went around and the dogs do get sick.
I just know that as a worker I probably didn't know the true extent.............
Posted by Anne Franklin on March 7, 2009 01:14 PM

Oh, So much didn't make it into the show, too much for the timeframe. Pet Habitat's puppies are all priced the same. $2588 when they are new, 1788- when they are four months old and haven't sold and 1188- when they are almost "un-sellable" either because they are too old or sick. Hope was discounted to 1188- she was five months old and too big for her cage. Over the month of investigation, six other "older" puppies disappeared...not sold. There isn't the demand for all these puppies, but these stores inexplicably keep a fresh supply of babies, Have you ever seen an adult dog in a pet store? This is a sick business.
Posted by iesza on March 7, 2009 01:18 PM

.......... Just one thing, it is unbelievably necessary to push the fact that as a customer, if you are an activist of animal rights, don't go into the featured pet stores and harass the sales associate. That will achieve nothing.
The workers love animals just as much as you do and yelling at them will just increase tension.
Posted by Anne Franklin on March 7, 2009 01:18 PM

When will people learn? They have been shown this greed based business over and over. After the Oprah show one woman who knows I organize a dog rescue actually said, "That's horrible. Thank God it doesn't happen in Canada." I told her there are approximately 1,800 puppy mills in Quebec alone.
When people won't learn, the dogs and pups suffer. Every time a puppy goes out the pet store door, a mother is sentenced to more years of pain and neglect. What happens to her once she cannot breed? What happens to her? No self respecting breeder would sell their pups to a pet store.
Thank you Market Place for trying to educate people. What we need is to educate politicians who allow these hell holes to exist.
Posted by Bev Davis on March 7, 2009 01:23 PM

Truthfully, there are no good quality dogs in pet stores, as good, responsible, caring breeders NEVER put their puppies in pet stores. Ever.
It was helpful that you interviewed a responsible dog person (the trainer.) However, it would have been more to the point to actually interview a responsible Canadian Kennel Club breeder, who could show you exactly what they do: health testing, appropriate selection of quality parents, REAL pedigrees, pedigree research, no expense spared, contracts, etc. This would show the public what real quality is, where it can be found, and what a sham the pet store is.
Thank you for this timely and accurate program. As I said, I only wish you had promoted what responsible, Canadian Kennel Club members/breeders are and do, to show the contrast, and educate the public.
Posted by Cherie Hunchak on March 7, 2009 01:30 PM

I found your show on How Not to Buy a Puppy very interesting and am glad you exposed this side of the industry. I do feel however, that consumers have to share some responsibility here. Why not go to the SPCA or Humane Society and get a rescue dog or cat? If consumers do not insist on having a pure bred animal, perhaps there will be less economic incentive for puppy mills and pet stores to exist. Heinz 57s make great pets too!
Posted by Diana MacGibbon on March 7, 2009 01:43 PM

Thank you marketplace for exposing the Puppy mill business and Pet Stores yet again!! PJ's deserves every bit of negative publicity--it is well earned.
I purchased a puppy from PJ's Yorkdale Mall Toronto 18 YEARS AGO!!! This puppy had major problems-- I put it to sleep at 2 years of age. This dog was so vicious it could not be trusted around anyone. My vet would not vacinnate him without a muzzle!! He was fine for the first year but he started turning after that. This dog was a cocker spaniel!! I have had dogs my entire life and I currently own a dog and have never experieced a problem such as this.
I sued PJ's who in turn went after the vet. Animal Alliance's Liz White and peter Silverman got involved and pj's settled out of court--they paid for everything except the food. They only paid due to TV exposure--keep up exposing them CBC!!
Posted by pat on March 7, 2009 01:54 PM

Laws need to be put in place to stop the sale of puppies, unless you are a licenced breeder, subject to routine inspections.
With online sales of puppies escalating, the need for Pet Stores decreases. This just cuts out that middleman, but still allows the sale of puppies from less than humane breeding situations. What happened to the days of "Free" mixed breed puppies? Now its the day of Designer Mutt puppies selling for hundreds of dollars. Where will it end?
There are too many puppies for sale now, as everyone thinks its an easy way to make a quick buck.
Posted by cathy on March 7, 2009 02:07 PM

THERE IS ABSOLUTELY NO LOGICAL EXPLANATION FOR WHAT WAS WITNESSED HERE, THE PEOPLE THAT ALLOW THIS TO GO ON SHOULD BE TREATED IN THE SAME WAY THESE DEFENSELESS ANIMALS ARE TREATED, MAYBE SOMETHING WOULD CHANGE THEN.
AS A PET OWNER I WILL NO LONGER SHOP ANYWHERE PETS ARE FOR SALE. I AM BUT ONE PERSON, HOWEVER, IF ALL OF US THAT VEHEMENTLY OBJECT TO THIS TAKE THE SAME STEPS TO AVOID THESE PARTICULAR PET STORES, IT WILL BEGIN TO MAKE A DIFFERENCE!
Posted by Sandra Sparkes on March 7, 2009 02:34 PM

I am an experienced dog groomer, trainer and breeder of purebred, registered dogs. I was not surprised to see where the puppies came from. But let’s not forget many puppies in Canadian pet shops come from Canadian puppy mills. The rule of thumb should be, “only buy from reputable breeders” or adopt from a shelter. Reputable breeders will never sell their puppies to pet shops and they will provide health records. I believe many of the puppies that end up in pet shops are taken away from their mother and siblings far too young and therefore develop behaviour problems. They should be at least 8 weeks old and well socialized before leaving the breeders home. Most puppies that are purchased in pet shops are “impulse buys”, or the buyer feels sorry for those poor creatures, but everyone that is sold, creates another space in a puppy mill for more to live in horrific conditions. As long as people are willing to pay huge amounts of money for mixed breeds and puppy mill dogs, these places will continue to exist. My suggestion; anyone that is looking for a puppy, check with a vet, groomer or the Canadian Kennel Club.
Posted by Monika Brauer on March 7, 2009 03:10 PM

I thought that if you brought more that one puppy into Canada, that they had to be individually identified ie
tattoo or microchip. It was my understanding that the
Department of Agriculture had some rules in place!!!!
Posted by Bertha Little on March 7, 2009 03:22 PM

Good work CBC on raising public awareness of puppy mill dogs being sold at pet stores. Unfortunately, this story is old news and what you exposed has been going on for many, many years. I think many pet owners, veterinarians, responsible breeders and others would like to find out what is being done to resolve this crisis. What laws are in place? Are these laws being enforced? Who is responsible and how can we make them accountable? What can be done in the name of transparency? What can people do to provide support short of not buying their pets at pet stores? I think many pet owners across the country would be willing to lend their support if only they knew what to do. Can you shed some light on this? I hope you consider a follow-up piece in this regard.
Posted by American Eskimo Dogs Organization Vancouver on March 7, 2009 03:29 PM

Yes, PUPPY MILLS need to be shut down. Yes, Puppy Brokers such as the HUNTE Corporation needs to be shut down. But Marketplace does not tell the TRUE FACTS. Those facts are: PJ's in fact are the only known Pet Store Chain in Canada that stands behind it's puppies 100%. PJ's cares and most PJ's buy from local, reputable breeders. Marketplace also forgets to say that for every occasional puppy with problems purchased at PJ's, many dozens without problems are loved in their new homes. Marketplace also forgets to mention that many ill or problem puppies are purchased from private breeders (often without any Health Guarantee like PJ's has). There are always going to be Problem Puppies no matter where you buy them. It happens people, Pet Store or Private Sale, it happens. Lets remember all the Healthy Puppies purchased out there instead of just the occasional problem one.
Posted by Rosanne Caskey on March 7, 2009 03:43 PM

Great piece, though I wish you had put more emphasis on where people should go for a puppy and what kind of questions they should ask. At the end of the day, this is about buyers being smart. A reputable breeder can answer your questions about the breed, tell you about your dog's pedigree, provide information on health testing and support you once you take your puppy home.
At the end of the day though, these are living organisms. Even the best breeder can only guarantee that they have done everything they can (i.e., health testing) to prevent problems. So the importance of a guarantee doesn't lie in the breeder guaranteeing there will never be a problem, no one can do that, it lays in what support they will provide if there is a problem (i.e., refunding up to the purchase price toward treatment costs, replacing the puppy, etc.). These aren't toasters at Wal-Mart, after all.
Posted by Amanda Kelly on March 7, 2009 04:08 PM

Hi there i was going to buy a puppy for my son but now i am rethinking this completely
Posted by susan on March 7, 2009 04:13 PM

Thank you for showing an honest segment on the horrors of pet store puppies, the Hunte Corporation and the puppy mill breeders. In this present age where PETA is trying to portray all breeders in a generalized form....it can be very frustrating for a breeder that shows their dogs, health tests all breeding animals, guarantees, and spends countless hours into breeding the best puppies that they can as well as ensuring through proper screening that their puppies ONLY go into preapproved, loving homes. This information is no surprise to many reputable breeders. All puppy buyers should do all their research BEFORE buying that puppy and really screen the breeders before putting any money down. Thanks again and I would love to see you do a follow up as to whether or not the director of the pet store industry does anything with your complaint information. I am guessing NO.
Posted by Michelle Chisholm on March 7, 2009 04:16 PM

This was terrific although I must admit I expected it to be harder hitting...good job and please give us more of this sort of thing....the public has the right to know...
Posted by Marian Lyall on March 7, 2009 04:29 PM

It find it uterly amazing that in this day and age, that there are so many people out there that are totaly oblivious when it comes to purchasing a pet. Do research, talk to a reputable vet or humane society before you bring a living, breathing puppy into your life. They are aware of the reputable breeders in your area. There are many (too many) puppy mills right here in Canada that are getting away with inhumane treatment of animals. Canadian law is not doing enough to protect the animals or charge the people who are making the offense.
Posted by K.Bradley on March 7, 2009 04:35 PM

It surprises me that people are still purchasing dogs from pet stores and supporting backyard breeders and puppy mills. Especially considering how much pet stores are charging for these animals.
Reputable breeders, the kind who won't just sell their puppies to anyone with cash in hand, no questions asked, who offer after sales support and health guarantees, are not that difficult to find and often far less expensive.
It's a heartbreaking thing to love an animal, and think it will be your companion for more than a decade and then to find its quality of life, and ultilmately yours, compromised by issues that might easily have been prevented by responsible breeding.
Stop buying living creatures as impulse sales. And don't patronize any store that sells dogs and cats for profit.
Posted by Cathy on March 7, 2009 04:48 PM

I know Michelle Dean and her dog, Dinglehopper and he's a very sweet dog. I was very upset when I learned that he is going blind. I hope the show was well watched and educated lots of people about the cruelty of puppy mills and pet stores.
Posted by Anne Griffin on March 7, 2009 06:32 PM

Wow...!!so much more needs to be asked about these unanswered questions!..so much impact on the innocent lives of both the adult dogs being bred and the puppies in their formative months of life-experience .. I know there are many reputable breeders doing an excellent job but so much more awarenes is needed in the public eye of the horrors of disreputable trading taking advantage of our desire and need of animal companions!!
Thank you Wendy Mezley,Iesza and CBC Market Place for keeping our eyes open..I hope we will hear more of"Hope" as she progresses on the road to recovery from her early traumatic experiences!!!
Posted by Geoff McKenna-Andrew on March 7, 2009 07:36 PM

There are general misconceptions about "pure bred" dogs which ultimately drives poor purchasing. There is no health advantage to buying a purebred. The healthiest dogs are relatively small mongrels. A long-term study showed that the two most significant factors associated with increased veterinary visits, poor general health and a short life were being purebred and being large. Pure breeding, especially when driven by the arbitrary characteristics prescribed by the CKC or AKC are often directly associated with genetic disorders that keep veterinary clinics like mine in business. Nature invented sex to mix up genes. If we were meant to be purebred, Hitler would have won and we'd all be budding like yeast. There are never any guarantees in the genetic shake of the dice but your chances of a healthy dog are slightly better if you choose a small mutt from the SPCA rather than a purebred
Posted by Derrick Milton, B.Sc., D.V.M. on March 7, 2009 08:53 PM

There are reputable breeders in every province who will have pet quality puppies for sale. Contact your province's CKC director and ask for a reputable breeder of the breed you would like to purchase.
Better yet, support a rescue and adopt a dog or puppy in need of a loving home. There are many breed specific rescues in every province of Canada.
Stop supporting pet supply stores that sell puppies. Do not fall for Petland's claim that they are adopting a dog to you for $900.00. If we stop purchasing dogs, food, supplies from these stores they will either change their policies or go out of business.
Don't fall for the so called designer dogs or hybrids...it's a fancy name for mutt. They can make great additions to a family but why pay $800 or more when there are so many in rescues and shelters.
visit www.petfinder.com to find an available rescue dog in your area.
Posted by Carole Bouchard on March 7, 2009 09:03 PM

Great Show. Thanks for exposing these stores. One notable point. The Canadian Food Inspection Agency and Canada Border Services have attempted to stop the flow of puppies from pupy mills by recently tightening up Import Requirement on all dogs under the age of 8 months.The
Import Requirements clearly state that for commercial purposes the importer must have an Import Permit with the stipulations set forth by the CFIA veterinarian and a Certificate of Health issued by the USDA.
Posted by John Grima on March 7, 2009 10:50 PM

I'm ashamed to say it but in the past, I too have bought a puppy from a pet store. BUT WHEN YOU KNOW BETTER, YOU MUST DO BETTER! My family and I take in rescue dogs. Presently, my daughter is trying to nurse a Bernese back to health. She came from a puppy mill raid in Quebec. This poor dog has had 2 litters and she's not even 2 years old. Some of her teeth are missing or broken. She has scars on her snout. If anyone raises their voice around her, she cowers and hides. She is presently infested with hook worm and we are now treating her with medication for the 3rd time. This poor girl was so under nourished, had severe ear infections, her coat was dull and falling out, she weighed only 62 lbs. She is much shorter than the average Bernese, due to the fact she was kept in a cage far too small for her to stand up in. Thanks for this expose. Please help us stop the cruelty!
Posted by Liz Katsoulis on March 8, 2009 12:21 AM

Thank you for the excellent Marketplace program on how NOT to buy a Puppy. Bobby is a Papillon who came from Tennessee, and spent 5 months in a cage in a pet store in
Windsor. The $1800 price was marked down to $1500 and a woman purchased him on impulse. She was unable to keep him and was unable to return him to the store, so she relinguished him to the Humane Society. I adopted him from the Humane Society and he was timid and anxious for some time. He also has congenital luxating patellas, which now, 6 years later, he is having surgically repaired. He is a wonderful, precious, part of my family. The points you raised in the program are so important. Puppies are indiscrimately bred to supply pet stores, and are often overpriced, unhealthy, and poorly socialized. Thank you.
Marlyce Swinnerton in Windsor Ontario.
Posted by Marlyce Swinnerton on March 8, 2009 01:07 AM

Thanks for airing the story on pet stores puppies, but you didn't have to travel to the US to find puppy mills. There are hundreds of sickening mills in Canada, too.
I strongly urge you to do follow ups. Puppy mills need to be shut down and made illegal in this country.
If you really want to see just how horrendous these places are, try to get a copy of HBO's "Dealing Dogs" which aired in the US a few years ago.
Posted by Logan Caelan on March 8, 2009 04:04 AM

So many people truly love dogs. You have done a great service to those who do not realize what perils there are in buying a pet store puppy. There are SO many responsible breeders. Any one of them is happy to sell directly to people who are genuinely capable of raising a companion animal.
Thank you for shedding light on a critically important aspect of so many families lives.
Posted by Dwayne Yorke on March 8, 2009 05:25 AM

Thank you for this show. I am sorry to say that both Pet Habitat and PJ Pets have stores in my community. I wish you could run this show in other languages as both these stores have many customers who don't speak English. It is appalling how blatantly these two companies lie to the public. The simplest way to stop this cruelty and deception is not to buy anything from stores that sell live animals, and to spread the word/truth. By the way, not only dogs suffer in mills, but also cats and rabbits.
Posted by Helen Savkovic on March 8, 2009 06:05 AM

Thankyou for your piece on pet store puppies. I have been involved in dog rescue for over 10 years and we (all rescue groups) try very hard to educate the public about where those pet store puppies come from.
Pets Unlimited (in Eastern Canada)is a sister company to PJ's Pets and so also purchase their puppies through the Hunte Corp. One thing that people can do is to refuse to buy ANYTHING (food, toys, supplies) from a pet store that sells live animals.
If you want to add a pet to your family - contact a rescue group (many rescue groups are breed specific so you can get anything from a Springer Spaniel to a Yorkie), try your local SPCA and above all deal only with a reputable breeder - not one who advertises on sites like Kijiji or Craigslist. Your local vet or breed specific rescue group may also be able to refer you to quality breeders.
Posted by Megan Brown on March 8, 2009 08:47 AM

Thank you for bringing this to the fore front again, I was disappointed that Hunt Corp was focused on when Canada certainly has its own fair share of puppy millers/brokers . Public education is a key point, people should be aware the CKC breeders will not sell to a pet stores, go there or to a rescue to adopt a pet. This is a continuing battle that that will not cease until our laws and regulations become tougher in regards to animal abuse and neglect. Until puppy millers are stopped pet stores will continue to have inventory. I applaud Quebec and other provinces for bringing in tougher laws for animal abuse, while in Nova Scotia, you can abuse and kill 2 kittens, plead guilty and receive a 5 dollar fine
Annette Armitage, Animal Rescue Coalitions
Posted by Annette Armitage on March 8, 2009 09:09 AM

Bravo to CBC's Marketplace for airing this story. Unfortunately, at the local Square One PJ's pet center, I often see beautiful little puppies that are far too big for the tiny cages cooped up and looking miserable. My heart goes out to them. Humane Society International Canada is currently bringing awareness to this situation... I agree with Barbara Thompson's comments and will no longer buy anything from PJ's Pet Center, simply because I will feel like I am contributing to the misery by giving my business to these awful places. I hope that the Canadian Gov't will ban the sale of puppies in all pet stores.
Posted by J. Balaram on March 8, 2009 09:20 AM

Thank you for the eye opening piece about pet stores .
I would like to make people aware that there are puppy store like brokers operating over many internet sites as well. They too buy their puppies from puppy mills right here in Ontario. They then sell them from their homes in very nice urban "family" settings. What the buyers are not aware of is that these poor puppies are kept in sheds or bins in garages until you come to visit. They are sold with questionable health & breeding info . Often these puppies are ill & most have been taken away from their dams way too early. Please be careful.
Posted by Carol cavanagh on March 8, 2009 09:44 AM

unbelivable the puppie mill will never go away untill people who are doing this sort of thing have no income pet stores shouldn`t even be allowed to sell pets they need to be controlled through legal channels and finnally shut down the pupy mills once and for all this is the only way i can see a end to this horible problem
Posted by jamie reisig on March 8, 2009 11:57 AM

Boycott any store that sells companion animals. In North America the pet industry is a multi billion dollar business where nothing is given back to the shelters and rescues that end up having to care for these guys. Be responsible and go to your local shelter when looking for a family pet. It is time our pets be given the respect they so rightfully deserve and not be treated as intangible objects.
Posted by Garry Gabrielle on March 8, 2009 12:04 PM

Louis McCann visited Hunte in Ohio he said it was fine, Wendy then showed him pictures of dog warehousing. (He was speechless) He then said that they don't stay in there forever, Puppies don't but the parents do!
Puppy Mills are wrong and must be stopped, you must tell what you know and never give up, the dogs depend on us the people who have a voice. Never buy from a pet store or a breeder that sell many breds of dogs, Marketplace shows how sick they are and sadly many die at a very young age.
Posted by Lorie Gordon on March 8, 2009 12:38 PM

Way to go Marketplace. I am happy you took the time to expose the real truth about these so called pet stores. It makes me sick to my stomach to know people in this day and age are still ignorant to where these poor dogs are coming from.
I still think we all have a long road ahead, this will not go away with just watching this. There will always be impulse buyers.
I own three purebred dogs that I have had to wait over a year to get from a reputable CKC Breeder.
As long as there are places like PJ's Pets and other like that, there will always be people to buy from them. Who in their right mind would pay 2500.00 for a mix breed.
This is just the start to a larger country wide problem. We all need to boycott stores like this.
Posted by Nicole Gray on March 8, 2009 01:39 PM

This was such a sad and apaulling story to view.I hope these puppy mills wll be shut down and this story will have a positive effect on the lives of so many inocent puppies. It's a sick and cruel industry all for the mighty dollar. What has become of humanity? I hope there is further investigation into the matter.
Posted by jodi sigsworth on March 8, 2009 01:48 PM

Hi I am appalled and disgusted that people take others for granted and those poor, poor puppies. I was in one animal store and saw puppies on the floor with a pen around them. I noticed the mess and told the owner to clean up the mess of these puppies. And somebody wanted to buy one I tried to discourage it but they bought it anyway. I had a friend who bought one from the pet store and of course it had hip displacement or had to have hips replaced, etc. It died at about 5 years old very sad. I would never buy a puppy from the pet store. I notice how nasty they look and very sad. Even kittens look terrible at times. I cannot believe that we have no rules and regulations in place for animals. If we were to buy a live person (baby) I am sure that it would be different. Thanks for the show YOu have a great show and love watching it.
Posted by vicki on March 8, 2009 02:08 PM

The scanning code of practice was a good segment. However, it was not indicated that the consumer must identify the error and tell them they are entitled to get the item free or get 10.00 off. The retailer will not tell you, it is not in their interests. You must insist, otherwise you are out of luck. Also, retailers usually hide the sign stating the code. Only an informed consumer would benefit. A good segment, but more info was needed. Thanks.
DAVID
Posted by David V on March 8, 2009 02:21 PM

What about the small independent pet stores who sell dogs from' reputable' breeders, but will not disclose the names? There is no law that requires a pet store to disclose their Canadian suppliers if the puppy is from Canada. A vaccination may be done by a pet store employee and a customer will never know if it was expired or even given. It only requres a signature if a veterinarian administered it. What exactly does a 'vet check' include? There is no standardization of that term. There are no minimum standards of health care required by commercial breeders who may even be breeding their own store 'stock.' The pet store industry is virtually unregulated and in sad need of overhauling. This is a matter of animal welfare, consumer protection and revenue accountability.
Posted by Jenna Jackson on March 8, 2009 02:55 PM

Great expose' CBC-TV! Thank you.
Arrggghhh to the Hunte Corp... accepting any miller's puppy for gain. Shipping puppies across the U.S. and to Canada... making money off the lives of the parent dogs that remain in deplorable conditions at the mercy of the millers. This cycle continues until the female can no longer produce puppies... she is destroyed and replaced with another female that can continue to produce puppies. The millers will continue to exploit her... breeding her at every cycle... continue to provide puppies to the Hunte Corp... who will continue to fill your neighborhood pet store with puppies.
ADOPT from a shelter.... DON'T SHOP.
Posted by bigfanx on March 8, 2009 05:55 PM

I worked for PJs Petstore in Ont. in 1978 and I see from your program that nothing has changed.Fifth Estate or Market Place aired a story similiar to this many years ago and I thought that would help people beware of petshop purchases but we are on the wrong track again.I quit my job at the petshop because of the poor conditions the puppies were being shipped-sometimes 8-6 week old pups would arrive in one cage.Needless to say the condition of the cages and puppies when they arrived-it was horrifing.The government has to step up and consumers have to be educated.So PJs nothing has changed in 31 years?
Posted by Darlene Pomroy on March 8, 2009 06:03 PM
Kudos to Marketplace for producing a documentary on the behind the scenes stories of the puppies sold in pet stores.
A good reputable breeder would NEVER have their pups sold through a pet store. All homes are screened and it is never first come, first served. Just because you have the money in your hand doesn't mean you'll be approved to buy that puppy from the breeder's home.
Puppy mills were developed to harvest puppies in order to make a big profit. No socialization, no health care, improper diet, no veterinary care for serious injuries. It is all about how many puppies they can produce. If their bodies give out from having litter after litter they are disposed of.
We need better laws to protect these animals from the abuse and horror they live in everyday to produce those "cute" pups that harbour so many health and temperament issues. Truly buyer beware.
Posted by Glory Wilson on March 8, 2009 06:11 PM

Bravo Marketplace and Michelle Dean for coming forward to expose the horrendous conditions that these puppies are exposed to and that they finally end up in these big chain store operations posing as "healthy, happy puppies"......100% guaranteed!
I have experienced first-hand the traumatic 3 years that Dingle has gone through and I am very proud that Michelle has persevered all the health problems (not to mention the expense!)
We need to continue to make the public aware that purchasing a family pet from these puppy mills and major pet store chains may result in years of medical issues and heartbreak for the owner.....
Posted by Kim Dean on March 8, 2009 07:46 PM

Sadly the main content of this story was about the unsuspecting consumer being ripped of by the pet stores and their suppliers. The real victim in this story is the dog. He/she was more than likely born in captivity under the most horrendous conditions. These pups are born with physical and behavioural issues which the new owners may or may not have rectified. Many of these pups live a life time suffering and paying for being born under these inhumane circumstances. When we start to understand the love and compassion derived from these guys we will start to not consider them as objects to be bought and sold.
Posted by Garry Gabrielle on March 8, 2009 08:30 PM

I think to paint all pet stores with the same brush is not fair. I bought my puppy from a local pet store (not one of the big ones like PJs) She came from a local Ontario Breeder. I received a guarantee and I was provided the breeder's number and was able to contact the breeder and ask a few questions. She is not a purebred, Cocker poodle cross, and I know that. I paid $499 which some will say is a lot for a mixed breed but she is what we wanted, we love her and she has been a great dog. She is 4 now and no problems.
Great show, I love Marketplace.
Posted by Bill Black on March 8, 2009 09:01 PM

Prior to seeing the March 6, 2009 broadcast of How Not to Buy a Puppy, I hadn't imagined the degree to which puppies are so poorly treated. It was frightening to watch this program and see the atrocity that these defenceless animals are subjected to. Furthermore, the misrepresentation by the so called "breeders" is outrageous to say the least. How could this have gotten so far out of control? The suffering and deception must end and it must end now. A governing authority dedicated to establishing policies and programs and the enforcement of humane practices to stop the needless suffering of these animals must be put in place. Acceptable breeding and kenneling practices must be adhered to and system must be enacted that penalizes offenders for the crimes that they commit. Plenty of resources and support exisits amongst reputable and caring breeders. There is no excuse to ignore this.
Posted by Kathi Yorke on March 8, 2009 09:38 PM

I find this ridiculou
I bought my dog at Pj's Pet store and i know many people who have their dogs are great and healthy, mine as well. My dog is happy and healthy.
Ya sometimes breeders can be cheaper but if it is sick do they take it back or anything? Pj's offers the 2 year warranty and all and i know someone who bought their dogs from a breeder and had sooo much problems. And i am sure if a person came into a store to ask about the dogs they would answer because i have asked and the Pjs answered everything for me.
Posted by Isabel on March 8, 2009 09:59 PM

several years ago ,I visited pj's with my sister as a witness, It was obvious to myself that the puppies on display were not old enough to have been weaned, When I asked a staff how old these puppies were, I was told security would be called to have myself removed from the store . This happened at the Yorkdale location,I tell everyone of my experience, my sister could not believe the reception I received. I have owned dogs for 30 years as well as fostered for rescue groups.I have whelped and raised puppies and kittens,as well as cared for sick and injured animals. I knew just on sight these puppies could not have been older than 5 weeks. I will never set foot in their store again.
Posted by B.Bathory on March 8, 2009 10:27 PM

Thank you for doing this story. I would like to remind other viewers that other animals (cats, rabbits, hamsters, etc) are susceptible to the same horrible system. Also, please do not buy a rabbit as an Easter gift! Pet store rabbits have been through the "mill" and thousands die in transit.
All companion animals are available for adoption through reputable rescues / SPCAs and humane societies.
The backyard breeders / home breeders make me just as angry as the huge millers - millions of animals are killed every year because there just are not enough homes. Even if they find the perfect home for each puppy / kitten / bunny, those homes are now full, so they won't be taking an adoptable animal from a shelter. There are just too many animals being bred
Posted by Allie on March 8, 2009 10:35 PM

Hey there,
I work for the Ontario Society for the Prevention of Cruelty to Animals (Ontario SPCA) and I loved this episode. It’s nice to see that people are trying to get the word out there about pet stores and the animals they sell there. And it’s not just big cities that get their animals from puppy mills - small town stores often buy from byb (back yard breeders) and full blown puppy mills and sell to unsuspecting people.
I hope to see more stories on animals- I really enjoyed this one!! Maybe a part two about the puppy's parents who never get out of those cages, and are constantly bred until they get too old/sick to produce more, and are "disposed" of ???
Posted by Melissa on March 8, 2009 11:31 PM

I would like to say that this episode of Marketplace was very biased and contained a lot of false information. You talk about how people shouldn't believe everything on the internet because it looks pretty or convincing, same goes with tv, just because you put fourth a convincing argument about how "all" or "most" puppies come from puppy mills or are mistreated in pet stores doesn't mean it's true. I have previously worked at a pet store and can say that the puppies were never mistreated by staff. Clean water was always accessible and water and poop checks were done regularily. Vet checks are performed twice weekly. You can't attack all pet stores for one's wrong doing. It's not like you all stopped going to Wendy's when the finger was found in the chilli. This was later found to be a sham, so it's not fair to bash a pet store based on a mishap from one or two.
Posted by Geri on March 9, 2009 12:02 AM

A good story which hit the mark about the horrendous treatment of puppies. If only people who want a puppy would do their homework. A reputable breeder will always ensure that their puppies go to the right home and usually provided extensive health records and guarantees. These pet stores prey on the emotions of the public and charge an exorbitant price. They are nothing more than scam artists. A couple we know bought a Schnauzer puppy for well over $1000 and then spent several more $'000's on vet bills. A good quality Schnauzer puppy from a reputable breeder would have cost around $1000 including shipping and guarantees with respect to it being healthy. It is hoped that shows such as yours will help put an end to the inhumanity of pet stores and the Harte company and educate people to seek out a good breeder, who really cares about their dogs and puppies.
Posted by Roger Spence on March 9, 2009 12:22 AM

People must not be fooled by PJAC either!
PJAC is one of the largest promoters of Hunte...did we not notice how nonchalant and non committal the PJAC fellow was with Wendey of Marketplace? He wasn't going to say anything to jeopardize his high paying position and PJAC's stance on backing of high volume breeders and those such as Andrew Hunte and the Hunte family dynasty.
Canadians should wake up and look into PJAC also!
Maybe that should be another story for Marketplace? In my view, it should be.
Posted by Emily on March 9, 2009 12:48 AM

I truley loved that this topic has once again made an impact on people.
However, I do love that everyone feels so strongly but we need to do something. The said thing is that pet stores are not just going to go away. We need to get the government involved and stop this abusive chain towards pups.
All the dogs in the kennels we shaking and terrified.
I know some say they are just animals but then why is it so painful to see them locked in cages and given no attention or love.
We need to shut down places like the "middle man" and shut down the breeders who are not following breeder standards.
Posted by Sarah Boniferro on March 9, 2009 10:12 AM

I was very disappointed in the pet store puppies story.
It's amazing to me that so many people would still consider purchasing a puppy from a pet store. The pedigree certificate is a worthless piece of paper, it is not a Registration Certificate! puppies are from puppy mills, backyard breeders, or large commercial breeders like the Hunt Corp. There are no health checks done, no socialization at the critical times, the mom usually lives in squallid conditions until she no longer serves "a purpose".
Instead of just pointing fingers at these stores, Marketplace had a wonderful opportunity of letting people know how to find a responsbile, ethical breeder and what questions to ask, along with what to "look for".
Even having mentioned the CKC website, which has "what to look for" on their homepage would have been helpful. Mr.McCann appeared totally disinterested and uninformed.
Posted by Susan Coutts on March 9, 2009 10:15 AM

It is horrible that this is going on still in the 21st century and our laws are not stricter - what can we do besides boycotting the stores that sell them, since we know there will always be people that will still buy puppies from pet stores?
Posted by Laura on March 9, 2009 11:05 AM
Wow....To say i was disappointed in this show is an understatement. Wendy Mesley's style of reporting is similar to the Howard Stern show..all shock and no substance. It truly is a shame when someone does a show like this and paints a picture with a wide brush and makes everyone in the industry look bad. Next time try not to skew the show so one way.
And your bit on the scanning code of practice?? you did 4 stores and found 2 items that totalled 60cents difference? Not so great discoveries...so what was the point? were you promoting the stores or trying to disgrace them? Anyway thats my last half hour i was on your show...
Posted by Samuel Slade on March 9, 2009 12:05 PM

This was a great program and its message definitely needs to get out there. As a person involved with animal rescue for rodents and other small animals, I think it's worth mentioning that this issue affects ALL types of animals sold in pet stores. I have seen the consequences of contagious and genetic diseases in small animals, and the heartbreaking filthy conditions animals live in before they are shipped to stores. I think sometimes it is more difficult for people to empathize with rodents because they don't have the same cuddly image as puppies, and I believe that is why the public is less critical of pet stores when it comes to these animals. There are reputable breeders out there for rabbits, rats, hamsters, etc. who are able to provide health info just like reputable dog breeders. Better yet, there are tons of local rescues out there with all kinds of animals who need homes.
Posted by RMW on March 9, 2009 12:47 PM

Hey. I watched the show with my girlfriend the other night and was surprised to learn that petstores buy from puppy mills. Great job on the show, we enjoyed watching it and would like to see more exposes done with animals.
Posted by Kevin on March 9, 2009 01:08 PM

For the love of Hope

Hope is a five month old puppy that was recently rescued from a pet store chain called Pet Habitat. Pet Habitat in turn purchased her from a large company in the US called "The Hunte Corporation". The Hunte Corporation bought her from a dirt shack puppy mill. Yet we bought her under the premise that she is a certified "purebred", AKC registered -from a reputable neighborhood breeder-top of the line investment. PET HABITAT'S employees proudly boast that 100% of their dogs come from the Hunte Corporation and that is the ONLY way to prove the purity of the puppy's lineage and health.

We say rescued because the shopping mall pet stores are mass-marketing these precious lives at an insurmountable rate. Treating them as stock. And we needed to rescue her to expose the lies that so many others are falling victim to.

These puppies are high ticket items to the tune of $2800-. They go on sale when the don't sell and are returnable for replacement, they have expiry dates and disappear from the shelves. Have you ever seen an adult dog for sale in a pet store? Hope was one of 30 puppies at PET HABITAT, at Brentwood Mall in Vancouver BC. She was on sale because she was getting too old and she peed whenever she was touched. She did this because she was so excited to BE touched. Hope's expiry date was January 30th. Her final selling price was $1188-.

The quantity of puppies, that are processed through these franchises, are outweighing the (lack of) demand and the market must de stopped because hundreds are dying of awful diseases and disabilities.

Hope is sadly only one of thousands of puppies processed through the Hunte Corporation's Processing Plant in Missouri. THOUSANDS of puppies every year are transported from the plantation by the truckload. Over the US border, into Canada large sterile trucks transport two month old puppies to their shopping mall destinations. Filtered through the Hunte Corporation, these puppies are not the healthy "purebreds" the stores tote them to be. They have mostly originated from backyard, desperate breeders that are unable to sell their dogs on their own, or from dirty chicken coop style puppy mills from various states across America.

Hope came from the Sharon Lanz puppy mill in Minnesota. A confirmed address from her official papers of lineage provided by Pet Habitat. She was sold to the Hunte Corporation in 2008 for approx. $300-. Transported 680 mi – (about 10 hours). And then held there at their metallic facility for two months of her life to make sure she would live.

To get to the pet store that we found her in, she had to travel 2,205 mi – (about 1 day 8 hours) to Vancouver BC in a cage no bigger than a milk crate with over 100 other puppies of various breeds.

Once there, in PET HABITAT at Brentwood mall, she sat in another metal cage, laying on paper shreds. For two more months Hope sat in her cage, as people came into the store pointing at the cute puppies, but walking away shocked at the prices. Hope was taken out of that cage for one daily cleaning and an occasional "run" in a three-foot square barrier. She had never seen the sun, or sniffed the earth.

We bought her at five months old. We bought her to save her. She was discounted to $1188- considered un-sellable and about to be "transferred" from the store as the other older pups that didn’t sell were. Transferred to where? We were never told. But we WERE told by the franchise owner that there is an entire other market interested in adult dogs even though they are untrained, housebroken, or socialized.

Imagine the mess this entire market has created in the guise of sweet cuddly "purebred" puppies. It's the southern slave-trade mentality at it's best. Life-for-profit, at any cost.

This is the story of Hope. Not only this one beautiful puppy, but A Hope that this market finds an end, and that these little innocent lives find a voice.

To see more about some of Hope's story see the CBC story "How not to buy a puppy" go to :

http://www.cbc.ca/marketplace/

ALSO SEE: http://fortheloveofhope-isa.blogspot.com/