ASPCA Blog

February 17, 2009

You Wanna Know About the TN Dogs, and We Wanna Tell You

Update! Of the over 250 dogs rescued from the Tennessee Puppy Mill last week, 43 pooches have made the 13-hour journey to our Adoption Center in New York City. We took in the animals most in need of rehabilitation. As for the rest, the majority of the pups remained in TN or in neighboring states, where they will be put up for adoption.

Today, the rescued dogs received coverage on NY1. Check out the video (cute puppies galore!) and article on their website. NY1 interviewed our own Trish McMillan, ASPCA Director of Animal Behavior, depicted below.

Trish gets a thank-you

Trish gets a thank-you-for-saving-me kiss from Vinny. He’s named after Vincent Van Gogh because of his injured ear. (But he has a much happier ending than the unfortunate artist!)

Hand off

43 dogs arrive on a truck from Tennessee. It’s 4:00 A.M. in New York, but the ASPCA staff is ready!


Close up

Depicted: Administrative and Outreach Manager Joel Lopez and Animal Behavior Counselor Kristi Templeton

Emily

Emily Brand,  ASPCA Media Coordinator, gives a pup some much needed TLC.


As you can imagine, the calls are pouring in from you awesome people looking to take home a former puppy mill dog. For more information on adopting one of these dogs, please call our hotline at (212) 876.7700 ext. 4145.
Just remember, these dogs have never had positive human interaction, and they are not housetrained—they’re used to walking in their own waste. So before you consider adopting one of these poor little guys, please read up on the special care a former puppy mill dog needs.

We are thrilled to have given these dogs a new life, but we didn’t do it alone. We extend our gratitude to every organization and person who contributed to the rescue and care of the animals. Although the criminal investigation into the breeding operation is ongoing and charges have not yet been filed, relocation of the dogs was possible because the puppy mill’s owner agreed to sign over custody of the dogs to the White County Sheriff’s Department, which then turned them over to the ASPCA.

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Pampered Pet Tip

Please do not have a big party to “socialize” your dog as soon as he gets home. Give your new pet at least a few days to bond with you before introducing strangers.

 

Category: Animal Cruelty

 

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Your comments are welcome here, but please remember to practice proper comment etiquette. Comments that include inappropriate or personal information will be deleted.

Submitted by sveina at: January 28, 2010
there the cutest dogs ever

Submitted by sheryl at: January 10, 2010
i am looking for a tiny shih tuz but i have a pug and love him. i want a girl

Submitted by jewell cornist at: December 5, 2009
i want a dog that is a girl and the kind of dog i want is a yorkie or a dog that just stay small and thedog has to be very cute

Submitted by holly at: November 28, 2009
please can i adopt a puppie a girl shit zue they are sooooooooooooooooooooooooooooooooooooooooooooo cute

Submitted by Emily at: September 7, 2009
i love dogs when i saw these pictures of the dogs i thought ASPCA is the right adoption center for me its grest that they help animals!

Submitted by patsy recchia at: June 5, 2009
Why are the Amish still in business? Someone please answer this. Thank you

Submitted by Susan Anclam at: May 29, 2009
The pictures say it all-----pure love----Thank you.

Submitted by laura at: April 3, 2009
I think its sick of people to wont to make money on pets. I've had dogs all of my life but they though they where people. I loved them all,Istill miss the ones thats gone on i hope some day or hope to see them again.

Submitted by Quen at: March 31, 2009
who in the world can not think that animals rock and if you have one to take care of it or give it away to me the option is not that difficult if you cant even provide for yourself!!!!!!!!!

Submitted by Quen at: March 31, 2009
i think that the ASPCA is awsome i want to grow up to be just like these people who have such a passion for the correct treatment of animals

Submitted by Jan at: March 26, 2009
This is awful. How in God's name can anyone do such things to poor puppies!!!!! Someone ought to put them in crates crammed in. No justice... those precious angels are getting a second chance at least. great job

Submitted by Sarah at: March 15, 2009
Wow! Good job rescuing the mill! So brave..!!!

Submitted by marylou at: March 15, 2009
i have a beautiful schnauzer from this puppy mill, and would love to talk with others about socializing him. so far i have used the crate in my room, leash in the house, et. can't wait for him to wag his tail with happiness

Submitted by cre8ivecrafter at: March 2, 2009
Bernie at http://www.aplacetobark.blogspot.com/ has taken in 28 of these little four legged fur babies and runs a no-kill shelter for many more. If you are truely looking for a new addition to your family - you cannot find one that has been loved more or cared for better than one from Bernie. She goes above and beyond for these animals. Keep up to date on their progress at http://www.aplacetobark.blogspot.com/

Submitted by mary turci at: February 28, 2009
Do you have any more small dogs left. I live in Tn. And I have 8 mini dachsaund which are my kids I would rather have the four legged kind than the two legged kind.

Submitted by Carol Malanga at: February 25, 2009
I have an interest in adopting a small dog. I recently lost my beloved pet and I think that it would be a tribute to his memory to give a good home to a pup in need of some loving care. As mentioned by Kate previously, I too seriously doubt that anyone will respond to this but I thought I would try.

Submitted by Connie at: February 25, 2009
This is such a sad problem that is going on everywhere. If people would stop buying animals from certain pet stores it would help slow down this problem (not cure). My heart goes out to the workers at ASPCA. I feel your pain, I also work with the shelter and rescue groups here in TN. When you are faced with these things it can take a toll on your emotions. I dont think the public should be shielded form the behind the sence. Maybe the public should see what pain that tech is faced with when they have to euth that animal that has done nothing to deserve that death. As far as no kill shelters. Well thay can choose what is taken in. When your like these shelter that take in any animal it is impossible. The only way is to SPAY AND NEUTER!!!!!!!! And dont buy from these back yard breeders. Blessing to all shelter workers rescue groups. We can make a difference.

Submitted by judith at: February 24, 2009
where should I adopt a dog

Submitted by Kate at: February 23, 2009
GREAT JOB ASPCA!

Submitted by Mat at: February 22, 2009
Great job by the ASPCA!!!!! the effort that each one ..each one of you have put in is highly appreciated all over the globe , especially here in India ... may you guys live for a thousand years. I hope u guys stay as strong as ever in mind and soul...forever.

Submitted by Debbie at: February 22, 2009
I think puppy mills are really bad and think u are doing agreat job. But my local shelter is charging $400.00 to adopt a speciality dog. A friend went to look for a dog to adopt and the one she liked they wanted that amount for. So why adopt when you have to pay that much! I don't feel this is right!!!! Who in these times can pay this. Something is wrong.

Submitted by kieara at: February 22, 2009
this is so sad i started to cry

Submitted by Judy at: February 22, 2009
Was the "Puppy Mill" closed & owners/operators subject to some sort of criminal prosecution? Or will they be up & running again next week. What about the parents of these puppies - also rescued or left to continue breeding? Aren't there also lots of animals sitting in NYY ACC waiting for adoption who could also be 'rescued' with all the publicity?

Submitted by Tiyonna at: February 22, 2009
I have 2 dogs already. One sharpae and one black lab. I have a big back yard. I really want to get a pomeranian. I have been looking for a pomeranian all over, but I can't seem to find one.

Submitted by jaimee at: February 22, 2009
i love u ppl who love animals cuz im 12 and realy wanna puppy but no one has a reasonable price and i need a little puppy friend that i can talk to and dress up plz help mme

Submitted by Mary at: February 21, 2009
Some of the dogs that were rescued are available from www.southpawrescue.org in TN, as well as Nashville Humane for those who are interested in giving these dogs a good home.

Submitted by Jennifer at: February 21, 2009
These animals are so fortunate to have you come along and give them hope. If there are any mini doxies could you please let us know?

Submitted by JILL at: February 21, 2009
Hi These little guys are so cute!!! Congrats on the rescue. Im interested in a little to medium sized pup because I have an apartment where pets are permitted. Im out on Staten Island and will make the trip to the city if you have a few lil ones to see. Thanks..Jill

Submitted by loe at: February 21, 2009
I so want Vicent Van Gogh! Soo cute. Were will ALL of the dogs that aren't adopted go?

Submitted by kevin at: February 21, 2009
I am looking for a beagle mix.Did you rescue any from the shelter. If not can I be put on some kind of adoption list. Thanks and good luck with the shelter dogs.

Submitted by MAr at: February 21, 2009
I am looking for a female mini schnauzer...are there any rescue schnauzer puppies available?

Submitted by devin at: February 21, 2009
hi i am 10 and i really want a dog

Submitted by J at: February 21, 2009
Thank the Lord for ASPCA. Your prompt and decisive actions in the TN puppy mill have given me new enthusiasm and motivation in doing more for these wonderful creatures, and support you in your endeavors. I have recently rescued a Chocolate Labrador; she has been an absolute joy. Additionally, is there more that we can do to have congress act more aggressively against dog fighting? Keep up the good work, ASPCA!

Submitted by Valerie at: February 20, 2009
Are any of the dogs ready for adoption?

Submitted by Alishia Coker at: February 20, 2009
Thanks Guys youv'e done a great job!!!1

Submitted by jeannie at: February 20, 2009
I would like to adoopt one of your pup.My husband and I are dog lovers.

Submitted by robert gorayeb at: February 20, 2009
I want to adopt a puppy

Submitted by Tnvolunteer at: February 20, 2009
I am thankful that these puppy mills are raided and the dogs saved. But I live in Tennessee and I always wonder why you always take most of the dogs saved to New York, Atlanta and other cities. I was interested in adopting one of these animals since I have lost my dog. It is very disappointing not to be to adopt any of these animals. I have always supported the local, state and yes the ASPCA. I know that some of the dogs were located in areas of Tennessee but that the majority were taken out of state. To me that make the state of Tennessee look bad.

Submitted by Bill Pullin at: February 20, 2009
I have a mini doxie and would adopt another one or two if they were closer. Our little girl is spoiled rotten and that's the only way to have a pet. These people that mistreat animals should have the same done to them.

Submitted by Olivia at: February 19, 2009
Hi, I am apart of your website and my friends, me and my family wanted to say thank you!!! If it wasn't for the ASPCA my states puppy mills would still be running. Yes I live in TN and want to thank you for everything you've done. P.S. If it wasn't for the ASPCA millions of animals would be dead or would have still been abused! Thank so much!!!

Submitted by Sabrina Blair at: February 19, 2009
I just wanted to express my appreciation and gratitude to your team. It is unfortunate these and many amimals suffer and many dont get the help until its to late. With your determination we can stop this mass production of dogs and cats for profit. Presently, I have three dogs one shepherd mix that was a stray and 2 chinese shar- peis which I adopted. Keep up the good work!

Submitted by samantha bermea at: February 19, 2009
should i visit the shelter? yes or no

Submitted by cristina at: February 19, 2009
sorry, please ignore last request to email me. i will come to aspca in person

Submitted by brandon goken at: February 19, 2009
I'm glad to see you guys help. Also keep up the work.

Submitted by Alissa Bailey at: February 19, 2009
i'm glad that someone steped in an helped them animals.

Submitted by A at: February 19, 2009
I posted this once already: if you want to adopt one of these dogs, you will have to visit the ASPCA *IN PERSON*. They will not contact you by e-mail to adopt a dog. There is no point in posting a message here that you want to adopt!

Submitted by carole Corr at: February 19, 2009
Lost both my 17 yr old Cairn last January and then A rescued Peke the following March. My first dog and the greatest dog I ever have known was adopted back from the ASPCA on Butler Street in Brooklyn...back in the 70s. I have always had animals...(currently 2 female cats..mother was saved from being tossed in the street) and take care of my daughters dog--a shelter dog from Alabama and a cat from North Shore. I want to adopt another dog...my daughter really wants a chihuahua though I am leaning to a bigger dog...but hey maybe we'll get 2. I have a large house and a large yard for exercise. I will only consider rescued shelter pets...never would purchase another animal. How do I go about this?

Submitted by Ruth at: February 19, 2009
I have had over 37 years of professional experience with dogs i.e. showing, grooming, boarding etc. with shih tzu. I absolutely adore the breed but I also now own a Yorkie and if there is any possibility of getting a yorkie I would be in seventh heaven. You see my shih tzu are all 13 yrs old and one is fighting her battle with lymphoma. Another is deaf and the other is blind. They all manage and are happy despite their infirmities but I would like to have another Yorkie for my Yorkie, Phoebe so when the shih tzu pass on she will still have a companion. One more is my limit or I would take more than one. If you could use my help in some other way just let me know. A yorkie would be nice but any small dog that needs love, care and a home in the country where they can put their little feet on the grass for the first time, will do.

Submitted by Amy at: February 19, 2009
To find out what dogs are available and where they are you can look at www.petfinder.com and just look for the rescues named above that got the dogs.

Submitted by Dennis at: February 18, 2009
Im interested in a female pug puppy. I have 2 young black pugs. A 3 year old male and a 1 year old female.

Submitted by MS.BRENU at: February 18, 2009
i've followed the story on the poor animls and i've been looking o adopt a small dog but why get one thats used to being treated kind when you can adopt one of those poor mistreated animals and show & teach them what love and a good home can be like and the relationship you and the pet will develope will e pricless thats why i'd like to adopt one to give them that chance for a new life plus i think dogs are the best!

Submitted by Jen at: February 18, 2009
It's devastating to hear about the conditions those poor dogs and puppies lived in for so long. I work at a veterinary office and always see people coming in with puppy store bought dogs. I don't support puppy stores and never will because the puppies that people buy from puppy stores come from puppy mills. It's sad that people spend thousands of dollars to purchase a puppy that most of the time will need extensive care and treatment for either their first year of life or for the rest of their lives. Unfortuantly, these people that are purchasing these puppies from puppy stores are supporting keeping these puppy mills in business and have no idea they are contributing to that factor. Hopefully this story will help educate people about this matter. My family and I have always adopted our pets from rescues or shelters, as of right now we own 2 cats and 2 dogs. They are beyond spoiled and deserve the loving life we give them. I'm Hopeful that people will reach out and adopt a dog or puppy and give it the life it never had. A life of freedom to run around in a yard with soft grass under their feet, a healthy well nourished lifestyle for them to live and an open heart full of unconditional love. We are always looking to extend of animal family in the future, so don't hesitate to e-mail me if you need to give a furry friend a loving home.

Submitted by janeta mcmaster at: February 18, 2009
I live in nj and would like to get on of the dogs that the found if you have a moltse could you please send me a E-mail about the dog or any other small one thanks

Submitted by theresa oliveto at: February 18, 2009
I was so sad also to hear about these poor puppies. I would like to adopt a female shih-tzu ,boston terrier, or tea cup yorkshire terrier.

Submitted by Lucy at: February 18, 2009
What I can not understand is that most of the postings here request for a specific breed and to be a puppy. I believe that a dog is another part of your family and it doesn't matter what breed or what age it is; any dog, pure breed or mixed will give you unconditional love independently if his/her owner is white, black, hispanic, tall, short, young, old, disable, etc... It's very sad what those dogs went through and there are many others out there going through the same thing. Right now what's important is to find humble human beings that can help any dog and not discriminate because of its breed or age.

Submitted by Tonya at: February 18, 2009
I am interested in small breed puppy, preferably a dog with a maximum weight of 7 pounds

Submitted by Anthony at: February 18, 2009
I would love to adopt a miniature pinscher from the Tennesse Puppy Mill. I own a MP and I would love for him to have a companion. It was very upsetting for me to see how these people have no heart on how they mistreated these dogs. I wonder if they will suffer the consequences. Would they treat a loved one the same way?

Submitted by Katie at: February 18, 2009
Please consider adopting a shelter dog if you are seriously considering adoption. 25-50% of all dogs in shelter are purebred, and most shelters do not have the luxury of being a no-kill. Save a life if you're considering the blessing of adopting an animal. These pups will have no trouble finding a home-- the ones at the shelter in your neighborhood may never see another day.

Submitted by Kathy at: February 18, 2009
I think its sad the way these people toke care of these poor dogs for their own personnel gain, I wonder how they would like to be treated in the same manner. Both my husband and myself are dog lovers we love the large cuddly one, we have a lab and rotty and their spoiled rotten my kids said their like a bunch of spoiled kids . If there are any larger dogs we would like to kno. We have a large home, back yard and 800 acres of state park to walk them. The 3 of us go everyday weather permitting for 3-4 long walks.

Submitted by AGNES at: February 18, 2009
I WOULD LIKE TO ADOPT A SISTER YORKIE, PEKE OR MALTESE FOR OUR 2 YEAR OLD WESTIE, MOLLY. WE BOUGHT MOLLY FROM A PRIVATE BREEDER AND WE WOULD LIKE TO ADOPT A COMPANION FOR HER SO ANOTHER DOG CAN HAVE THE CARE AND LOVE MOLLY ENJOYS.

Submitted by Anonymous at: February 18, 2009
Puppy mills are cruel! and i had a question could you make alot of money bye being an animal theripist please comment back

Submitted by Kate at: February 18, 2009
i made flyers and put them up aroung town, i also made a poem that said "No fur is a cure a cure for animals that dont live forever or die from natural causes, but from cruel people that dont care, go for the right and fight! NO FUR!

Submitted by stephanie at: February 18, 2009
Oh my god who could be so cruell !!! ... I would love to adopt a puppy or two .. id be interested in either a jack russell yorkie.. pug boston terrier.

Submitted by Puppy love in the Bronx! (Amberly) at: February 18, 2009
How sad. How could anyone treat a precious animal like that???? My mother sent me this every single person that has the privelage to have a bet should have no choice but to read this everyday!!!! Ten Commandments for Pet Owners: 1. My life is likely to last 10 to 15 years. Any separation from you will be very painful. 2. Give me time to understand what you want from me. Do not break my spirit with your temper, though I will always forgive you. Your patience will teach me more effectively. 3. Please have me spayed or neutered. 4. Treat me kindly, my beloved friend, for no heart in all the world is more grateful for your kindness than mine. Don't be angry with me for long, and don't lock me up as punishment. After all, you have your job, your friends, your entertainment, I have only you. 5. Speak to me often. Even if I don't understand your words, I understand your voice when it is speaking to me. Your voice is the sweetest sound I ever hear, as you must know by my enthusiasm whenever I hear your footsteps. 6. Take me in when it is cold and wet. I am a domestic animal and am no longer accustomed to the bitter elements. I ask for little more than your gentle hands petting me. Keep my bowl filled with water. feed me good food so that I may stay well, to romp and play and do your bidding. By your side, I stand ready, willing and able to share my life with you, for that is what i live for. I will never forget how well you have treated me. 7. Don't hit me. Remember, I have teeth that could easily crush the bones in your hand, but I choose to not bite you. 8. Before you scold me for being lazy or uncooperative, ask yourself if something might be bothering me. Perhaps I am not getting the right food, I've been out in the sun too long or my heart may be getting weak. 9. Take care of me when i get old. For you will grow old too. 10. When I am old, or when I am no longer enjoying good health, please do not make heroic efforts to keep me going. I am not having fun. Just see to it that my trusting life is taken gently. And be WITH ME on that difficult journey when it is time to say goodbye. Never say, "I just can't bear to watch." Everything is easier for me when you are there. I will leave this earth knowing with my last breath that my fate was always safest in your hands. I love you. ********* Now go kiss and hug your pets.

Submitted by Brian Idoni at: February 18, 2009
I would love to adopt a pug puppy or any other female from the Tenn. Puppy Mill so my other pug Bruno could have a sister!

Submitted by J.Gorsuch at: February 18, 2009
There are dogs all over the place looking for homes. Not just small dogs and not just dogs seized from the Tennessee puppy mill. Any qualified home should consider different options for adoption. These dogs will get adopted .... What about the rest waiting in a high kill shelter that won't?

Submitted by sylvia & John at: February 18, 2009
WE ARE INTERESTED IN ADOPTING A PUPPY, WE HAVE A 7 MONTH PUPPY WHOM WE LOVE DEARLY, THERE IS PLENTY OF LOVE IN OUR HEARTS FOR ANOTHER PUPPY. WE HAVE A NICE BACKYARD TO SHARE WITH ANOTHER PYPPY

Submitted by cin at: February 18, 2009
I would be interested in adopting a carin terrier puppy or a westie terrier puppy. A male if any.

Submitted by jon a TORTORA6@AOL.COM at: February 18, 2009
i was sad to hear about those poor little dogs but releaved they were rescued. my mom's yorkie of 11 years was taken out of her office in belmont park 9months ago she still is so sad I would be greatful if i could adopt a dog from you all and put a smile on my mom's face please consider

Submitted by G.E. Makeda Selassie 1* at: February 18, 2009
I would simply love to adopt all 43 certified pure breed pups, and bring them to my Connecticut Estate to entertain my children and guests, and one toy dog for me to tote around and dress up (It has to be a female for me, because the guys don't think it's fair to the males to play dress up)

Submitted by Jane Montano at: February 18, 2009
I would be interested in a mini dachshund and a mini yorkie. I'm involved with a sheltie rescue group here in Middletown New York

Submitted by rose at: February 18, 2009
they are so adorable. i love dogs and puppies so muchhhhhhhhhhhhhhhhhhhhhhhhhhhhhhhhhhhhhh i have a dog and cat did you know i had 14 animals so far

Submitted by A at: February 18, 2009
If you want to adopt one of these dogs, you are going to have to go to the ASPCA in person. There is no point in posting a message about it here.

Submitted by Marianne at: February 17, 2009
would be interested in adopting any female, spayed puppy from the puppy mill. will be given love, attention, a full belly each night and a warm bed to sleep in!

Submitted by shirley cruz at: February 17, 2009
I would be interested in adopting one of the pug puppy or any puppy from the FORM TENN PUPPY MILL. THE PUPPY WILL BE GIVEN ALL THE LOVE AND SECURITY it needs.

 

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