Animal Welfare – The Dark Side of the Pet Industry
It’s no secret that the pet industry is a billion-dollar business. In 2018, Americans alone spent over $72 billion on their furry friends. But where does all that money go? And at what cost?
The pet industry is a big business. In 2018, Americans spent over $72 billion on their furry friends. But where does all that money go? Unfortunately, a large portion of it funds some very inhumane practices.
Take puppy mills, for example. These commercial breeding operations mass-produce puppies for pet stores and online sellers. The dogs are kept in cramped and filthy conditions, with little socialization or veterinary care. The puppies’ parents are often kept in breeding chains, where they’re confined to small cages and used for nothing more than pumping out litter after litter of puppies.
These mass-produced puppies often come with a host of health problems, which pet store employees are rarely equipped to deal with. Puppies from puppy mills are also more likely to have behavior issues due to poor socialization. But because most pet stores do not offer refunds or exchanges, unsuspecting customers are stuck with sick and difficult-to-care-for animals.
The dark side of the pet industry doesn’t stop there. Another concerning trend is the rising popularity of designer dogs. These hybrid dogs (Labradoodles and Puggles) are created by crossing two purebred parents. However, they often suffer from genetic defects and chronic health problems because they’re bred for looks rather than health or temperament.
While paying top dollar for a ‘designer’ dog might seem harmless, the truth is that these trends fuel the demand for purebred animals—which keeps puppy mills in business. So before you buy that cute little Labradoodle pup, consider adopting a mixed-breed dog from your local shelter instead. Not only will you give a loving home to a dog in need, but you’ll also be helping to break the cycle of animal exploitation in the pet industry.
The next time you’re tempted to buy that adorable puppy from the pet store window, take a moment to consider where that money is going. By supporting companies that engage in cruel and unethical practices, we’re inadvertently fueling an industry that causes immense suffering for millions of animals yearly. When it comes down to it, there’s just no excuse for animal abuse—no matter how cute the animal in question may be.
Craving furry (or fishy!) company in your dorm room? Explore the different animals allowed in dorm rooms and find your perfect low-maintenance companion!
Passionate about animal welfare? Learn how to become an animal welfare officer with our step-by-step guide.
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