This is a good thing, right? Well. It's a great thing that Julie's Jewels will no longer be up and running. Lots of people have purchased puppies from her, only to have them die a few days later. But an auction is no place for someone with a soft spot in their heart for animals. Most likely, the auction will be filled with other bad breeders and puppy-mill owners, who will try to outbid one another for dogs to take home and breed. Most of the dogs will not be given loving homes. They will be leaving one awful puppy mill...only to end up in another.
Rescues tend to stay away from dog auctions, for good reason. The bidders can sniff out those who are looking to rescue, and they often get thrown out because they are unable to keep themselves from saying something - it's such a disgusting process that animal advocates just can't stay silent. The expense of traveling to such an auction and bidding on dogs is also a huge issue - the majority of animal shelters would never be able to afford a trip like that.
I feel helpless. What can we do in these situations? I am only one person; my voice is small, and most will not hear it. There are so many animals in need, and I feel minuscule in comparison. I try to educate those who don't understand the importance of avoiding pet stores; I share stories and articles about adoption on social media. (Often losing followers/friends in the process.) What more can I do?
I love Iowa, but I hate that we have this dirty little secret. Please share with me in the comments your experience with puppy mills, and how you deal with feeling extremely little in the face of all this nastiness. For more info on puppy mills in Iowa, visit the People for Animals blog. Check out the post about her auction experiences, too. To read more about Julie's Jewels closing, click here.
Yikes, I had not heard about these kinds of auctions before! Thank you for the education and getting the word out, people need to be aware! You are doing a great service.
ReplyDeleteThank you for your kind words, Leah. I was unaware of these auctions until about a month ago...the more research I do, the more disgusted I get :( I agree, more people need to know about these kinds of things. Thanks for reading!
DeleteI have felt the same way many times. We spend so much effort in rescuing dogs, but how about ending puppy mills? I believe that is where the problem truly stems. These auctions are sickening. It amazes me what people will do for money.
ReplyDeleteExactly...we can help our local dogs, but what about these dogs who have never set foot on grass before? That's what makes me sick. And so many people don't know; they see a pet store, buy a puppy...they have no idea of the horrible conditions that puppy came from.
DeleteThe auctions really are disgusting. I have read a few first-hand accounts of some - horrifying stuff. They refer to the dogs by number, say things like, "This one may have a broken jaw/missing limb/no teeth...but she still has lots of litters left in her." Just...ugh. I can't even think about it too much.
Thank you for reading, Kelsie!
I know it can be overwhelming! However, the whole country is becoming more educated about puppy mills. It may take time, but progress is on its way.
ReplyDeleteI agree, Beth - more and more websites about puppy mills seem to be popping up, and it's definitely a step in the right direction. Education is key! Thank you so much for reading.
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