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| Jeff Eyre / The HSUS |
| Clean, safe, and well-fed after rescue. |
By Meredith Shields
Their tails are wagging a little bit more. There is a little more playing and a little less cowering.
These former puppy mill residents have discovered toys and are now less reluctant to approach the front of their cages for treats.
Frightening Beginnings
It has been more than six weeks since the state of Maine seized about 250 dogs of various breeds from deplorably inhumane conditions at a Buxton puppy mill. Since then, several of the already pregnant breeding dogs have given birth to more puppies, multiplying what had already been an overwhelming number of animals.
To help, The HSUS' Disaster Services staff and NDART® volunteers have been on-site, assisting state employees with the animals' care, since the first day of the raid. Each day, about 20 volunteers from various agencies work to clean, feed and treat the dogs.
Recovering, Recouping
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| Jeff Eyre / The HSUS |
| Making each pup feel loved. |
Now, many of the dogs are playing outside their kennels and developing socialization skills they were denied in the puppy mill. While the case against the kennel owners takes its course, the volunteers are enjoying watching the dogs' daily progress and improving quailty of life.
The HSUS, the American Society for the Prevention of Cruelty to Animals (ASPCA), the U.S. Department of Agriculture and many other animal welfare agencies throughout New England are helping Maine's Department of Agriculture, Food and Rural Resources' Animal Welfare Program, The Animal Welfare Society of Kennebunk and The Animal Refuge League of Greater Portland with the dogs. Hill's Pet Nutrition donated dog food. And The Salvation Army provided food, beverages and smiles for hard-working volunteers.
Commitment to Caring
The cooperation, dedication and hard work provided by those working to give care to the animals is truly heartwarming. The dogs themselves are not only appreciative of their clean kennels and good food, but also of the kindness and attention they receive. Every volunteer takes the time to pat his or her favorite dog on the head or throw a ball with the happy bunch.
You can help
The shocking conditions in which these dogs were raised—and their remarkable improvement since rescue—is testament to the importance of working to end the puppy mill industry. Learn more about puppy mills, and encourage anyone you know looking for a new furry friend to adopt, not buy.
Updated Oct. 9, 2007
