I know there are a lot of people that are anti pet stores, and I too find myself a bit upset at some of the practices they endorse.

My dog is a pet store pup- although, I read about the store I was buying her from- they are reputable and they only buy from reputable breeders. All of the dogs that they purchase have been checked out, and are found to be breed to be free from genetic defect (not that that is 100% possible, but they are bred from lines that are historically disease free). The store will cover medical up to the cost of the dog. The dogs come with AKC papers, although not all are eligable to be shown (because of coloring/markings- which doesn't make them any less pure breed). Most of the Sires in my dog's line have been DNA checked! Most importantly, the dogs are guarenteed not to be mill puppies!!!

Rember, mill puppies need love too- if they are not bought- they are often put down! So, yes, buting from a store that has mill puppies contributes to puppy mills, but it also saves a dog from being put down, or worse, becoming an abused mill dog!!!

My advice, read into the store you plan on buying from. If you find one that does sell mill puppies, the decision to buy is on you- let you conscience decide on what is best- contributing to puppy mills or letting a perfectly good dog become an abused mill dog or letting a dog be put down.

... One final thought- adoption- there are benefits to adopting- pure breds can be found cheeper, fixed, and trained. Personally, I enjopy the experience of raising my own dog!

PS- I am NOT condoning puppy mills- just saying that mill puppies need love too!!! I definately researched the store I bought through, but even if my Nugget was from a mill, I would love her just the same!