When you hear the word puppy, it’s likely you imagine a skipper lil’ pup, frolicking in the sun, tail wagging, tongue likely out, having a grand time. While this is true for many dogs in the U.S., they aren’t all so lucky. In fact, if a dog happens to be born into a puppy mill, there is a chance that they may never see sunlight a day in their life.

Puppy mills are essentially dog breeding operations where animals are kept in tiny wire cages or hutches, usually in unsanitary conditions, expected to constantly produce store-ready puppies. These breeding dogs rarely get released from their cages for play, exercise, or socialization. They are simply profit-making machines.

Thankfully, there are organizations out there who are working day in and day out to give these puppies another chance at life. In fact, National Mill Dog Rescue recently rescued 61 puppy mill pups! Having lived in such terrible conditions, you can see how happy they are just to get a nice, warm bath and a little pampering. While the fight to close down puppy mills is still far from over, it’s nice to pause for a moment and rejoice in the victories. These puppies are on their way to a better and brighter life, and that is certainly something worth celebrating.