New Ranking Lists Missouri as One of the Worst for Puppy Mills

This is a list that no state wants to be on, but for Missouri not only is the Show-Me State on this list, but it ranks in the top 25.

The Humane Society of the United States just released the 2024 report of the worst puppy mills in America with 23 known dealers and the worst in the nation for puppy mills.

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Why is Missouri on this List?

Of those 23 dealers on the list for Missouri, all have some complaints on file about how dogs are being taken care of, or small kennels sizes for larger dogs. This is not the first time Missouri has been on this list, for the last 12 years in a row, Missouri has the highest number of dealers in the report (23), followed this year by Ohio (20), Iowa (15), and Wisconsin (10).  Just a few years ago, Missouri ranked #1.

Reading some of these reports on how horrible these kennels are breaks my heart. I have also been a BIG supporter of Adopt Not Shop. There are so many animals in local animal shelters looking for a home. So, if you are thinking about getting an animal always look there first.

You have to be mindful too when buying from a puppy mill/breeder. Here are a few warnings to remember from the Better Business Bureau:

• See pets in person before paying any money.
• Try to set up a video call to view the animal.
• Research the breed to figure out the average market price.
• Check out a local animal shelter for pets to meet in person before adopting

If you do buy from a breeder check the always check The Humane Society of the United States website and lists to make sure the breeder you are working with is NOT on this list.