Michelle Riley/The HSUS

Protect Ohio’s puppies: Urge Gov. DeWine to address the puppy mill crisis

Ohio's puppy mills are treating dogs like breeding machines, focusing on profit over their well-being. These facilities often sell sick puppies to unsuspecting families, leading to overwhelming medical expenses and a lifetime of health issues for the pets. Despite the laws established in 2018 to improve breeding conditions, many breeders still neglect the basic needs of their dogs, and the Ohio Department of Agriculture has not fully enforced these laws to shut down the worst offenders.

Inspection records show alarming evidence of ongoing neglect: dogs living in filthy and cramped cages, lacking proper veterinary care and even subjected to amateur medical procedures by breeders. As a state that deeply cares for its animals, Ohio must do more.

In partnership with a coalition of 20 humane societies, rescues, animal welfare organizations, and veterinarians, we are calling on Gov. DeWine to direct the ODA to use its full authority to enforce our commercial dog breeding laws. That includes applying tough penalties to violators and shutting down the most abusive puppy mills.

TAKE ACTION

Join us in calling for an end to puppy mill cruelty. Send a message to Gov. DeWine today, urging him to take a stand against puppy mills and ensure a healthier future for Ohio's dogs, using the form below. Be sure to personalize it so your message stands out.

This action alert is for U.S. residents. International advocates, please visit Humane Society International.

Your Message

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Dear Governor DeWine,  

As an Ohioan who cherishes our community, I am deeply concerned about the cruel conditions in Ohio's puppy mills. These facilities treat dogs like breeding machines, with little regard for their well-being, and often sell sick and poorly cared-for puppies to unsuspecting families. Despite the efforts to improve breeding standards in 2018, many breeders still fail to provide adequate care, and the ODA has not fully utilized its enforcement powers to penalize or shut down these abusive operations. 

Inspection records reveal ongoing issues: sick or injured dogs without veterinary care, unsanitary conditions and even breeders performing ad hoc surgeries on dogs without the proper training. It is distressing to see Ohio ranked as one of the worst states for puppy mill activity. We urge you to take decisive action and direct the ODA to rigorously enforce the laws against high-volume breeders who violate humane standards. 

Ohio can and must do better to protect our beloved animals and the families who welcome them into their homes. By cracking down on puppy mills, you can ensure that Ohio becomes a leader in animal welfare, reflecting our shared values of compassion and respect for all creatures.

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