Regarding the pups at NSAL...

DH and I had our hearts set on adopting an IG that we found from a shelter upstate in a few weeks, but after reading the heartbreaking story about the pups at NSAL, we might go there to adopt one of them this weekend.

Do you think that these pups will have any socialization issues or any other attachment issues because of the conditions they were used to living in?

I know that there is always a risk whenever you take an animal into your home, but do you think that these pups will be any more of a risk (health wise and otherwise) than any other pup you would adopt?


(I hope I am at least making some type of sense...)

Re: Regarding the pups at NSAL...

I think the biggest problem is going to be housebreaking them. They are used to living in cages and have no idea about going outside to go to the bathroom.
I actually thought about going there, but am afraid because we aren't home during the day and housebreaking a puppy would be impossible for us right now.

Re: Regarding the pups at NSAL...

I do think they may be more challenging.

But I also think they will be very rewarding pets to have and to teach and give love to.

I do believe they will all come around with patience and love and consistency. I am sure many of them just will adore the attention.

I also think ANY pet gotten from any pet store runs the same risk, having lived pretty much in a cage their life before coming into a home.

Re: Regarding the pups at NSAL...

It will be challenging, but you are also dealing with a puppy. They are much easier to train than older dogs. Also, they are so young, I don't think their socialization will be that much of a factor.

Good luck!!!

Re: Regarding the pups at NSAL...

My siss' ex adopted her a dog once from bide a wee who was mistreated. She was locked in a bathroom all day. Then when we got her, it took a little while but she learned to go outside. Once she had to go so bad we found her in the bathtub going pee.. it was so sad the little cutie. She has passed a few years ago, but she was a very loving friend.

I think with enough love and caring those puppies will be just fine.

Re: Regarding the pups at NSAL...

My family rescued a dog 15 years ago. When we first got Benji they told us he wasn't good with children or other pets. This could not be further from the truth. He is now approximately 15-16 years old and has had little health issues.

Our other yorkie which we purchased died suddenly at the age of 8. The vet believed he died of a heart attack.

Re: Regarding the pups at NSAL...

Having adopted and worked with Mill dogs, here is my humble opinion:

Depending on the age, type of dog, and severity of abuse, there may be training & socialization issues. Given that the dogs were from a very big Mill, it is possible that they were in cages of hundreds; meaning that the millers crammed up to 100 hundred dogs in a cage together and forced them to mate and make more dogs,......

As far as training a mill dog, you may need to employ different training methods, as some traditional methods might be counter productive. It also might take slightly longer for the mill dogs to trust humans. Thad & trusts you, they will give an unconditional love that is unparalleled. Don't get me wrong, I love all my dogs, but there is something about the love from the PM rescue that I just cannot explain. It is like a higher level....

ALL of these issues are a possibility for any re-homed dog, and should not hinder a decision to adopt. Please also know that there are resources online and in person that can help acclimate a mill dog to a forever home.

A great place to start is Puppy Mill Rescue They have an online resource, and if you apply to become a member, there is a private Yahoo forum as well to ask questions, etc.

Good luck & Congrats on deciding to adopt.