A gut-wrenching video posted to the TikTok account @adoptingdogs shows the gut-wrenching reality that many dogs rescued from puppy mills face. Often, these dogs must overcome huge hurdles before finding their forever homes.

@adoptingdogs

Shelters across the US are struggling. Please adopt this holiday season! If you cant adopt, ask a shelter or rescue how you can help. @PETA

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Puppy mills are for-profit enterprises that breed and sell dogs. The dogs used for breeding by these establishments are treated cruelly. Many of them are kept in small kennels and rarely, if ever, allowed outside. Additionally, they may be denied adequate nutrition and vital medical care. Dogs rescued from puppy mills are generally undersocialized and apprehensive or fearful of humans. This can make it extremely hard for them to find new homes. 

In the video, dogs who were used for breeding can be seen after being rescued. Many of the dogs are terrified. They can be seen huddled in their kennels, trembling. Many of them are visibly underweight, while others have patchy fur or scabs. 

This video highlights the importance of adopting, rather than purchasing a dog. Sadly, puppy mills continue to operate around the world. In the United States alone, there are an estimated 10,000 puppy mills. Only a fraction of these are regulated by any government agency. 

The video received over 46,000 likes and many people left comments. Indie girl commented “Heartbreaking” and many others agreed. Several comments, including one left by Aron, implore people to adopt dogs in need. Aron writes, “ADOPT!! ADOPT! Please. There are so many sweet souls in need of love.”

We encourage everyone thinking of getting a pet to adopt instead of shopping. Read more resources about adopting animals on One Green Planet, including 7 Reasons to Adopt Your Next Furry Best Friend, 5 Reasons Why Everyone Should Adopt a Pet, and These Heartwarming Before and After Pictures of Adopted Rescue Animals Will Make Your Day! Read tips for pet adoptions and what to consider before adopting an animal. We recommend using these apps to find shelter dogs near you!

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Related Content: 

• Petition: Tell the Missouri Senate to Take a Stand Against Puppy Mills
• Pet Stores Sue Maryland Claiming Puppy Mill Ban Is Unconstitutional 
• 5 Common Illnesses That Occur In Puppy Mill Dogs and Why You Should ALWAYS Adopt
• From Craigslist to eBay: How Puppy Mills Are Using Online Sales to Hide the Truth from Customers
• Petition: Shut Down Puppy Mills 

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