The people who rescued the dogs from the puppy mill may have been trying to be good Samaritans, but they were not using proper procedures. There are numerous rescue groups in this state, and they are all trying to reach the goal of no more homeless pets, and they never release an animal to a new home without being spayed or neutered. The Baxters are not a recognized animal rescue group and have just made legitimate 501©(3) organizations’ jobs harder. These dogs will breed and add to the pet overpopulation problem.
None of the new owners were screened, and many most likely ended up in another puppy mill. They should have been spayed/neutered before they were released to anyone.
Also, dogs from puppy mills frequently have severe health problems from being inbred. If you want a pet, contact a recognized animal rescue group or the animal shelter. You will adopt a healthier pet and receive everlasting love and loyalty.
The woman who kept these animals in stacked cages, with feces inches deep, should be prosecuted for cruelty to animals. There are organized animal rescue groups who would have helped her and taken care of the animals properly. The Baxters should cease operations until they educate themselves. Good sources of information are the Humane Society of the U.S., Oklahoma Alliance for Animals, Volunteers for Animal Welfare, Saving Pets at Risk and ARC. Everyone needs to look at okpuppymilltruth.org. The Oklahoma Legislature should do something immediately about shutting down puppy mills forever!
Also, the rescue groups in Oklahoma could really use the publicity afforded the Baxters. These groups constantly struggle for money for veterinary care, food, foster homes and volunteers. They would really appreciate front-page articles in the newspapers, TV coverage and pleas for food and other supplies. These groups work tirelessly to rescue, care for and find good homes for animals who have been abandoned. There are countless stories of animals dumped on country roads or in trash cans. These stories would break your heart.
Ms. McGee and others should volunteer at an animal rescue group: Second Chance, Free to Live, Saving Pets at Risk or one of many other rescue groups, and they will quickly see what these groups are up against, how hard they work and how much good they do. It’s hard work, emotionally and physically, but it will enrich your life.
LaNell Montgomery
Shawnee
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