Don't Buy the Lies:

"Now accepting QUALITY consignments.
Only quality breeding stock or healthy and marketable puppies will be accepted."

        On March 10, 2007, representatives from the Wisconsin Puppy Mill Project and rescues and shelters throughout the state of Wisconsin attended a puppy mill auction at Horst Stables in Thorp, WI. Some went as observers, to find out for themselves exactly what goes on at these auctions; others went as buyers, to get dogs "out of the system" and into loving homes.

       This is the ad that appeared in newspapers throughout the state-- click on the photo for a larger view and easier reading. Even in this size, however, the word "QUALITY" stands out.

       We are in the process of putting together a report on what sellers at this auction considered to be "quality breeding stock" and "healthy and marketable puppies." Click on any picture on any page in this section of the website for a larger view and the story behind the photograph. Some of you may be shocked. Many of you won't be in the least surprised. We hope that you are all moved to take up the fight against the institutionalized abuse of "commercial breeding."

       There is controversy among rescuers about purchase of dogs from millers and mill auctions. Some feel that to do so is just supporting the millers and helping to keep them in business. Some feel that getting the adults "out of the system" is worth the cost.

       To the Wisconsin Puppy Mill Project, it is a matter of individual conscience. Our job is to show you the faces of some of the animals purchased by rescuers, tell you their stories, and, hopefully, enlist your help in the fight against puppymills so that the suffering of these animals will not have been in vain.

       Because of the prohibition on cameras at the Thorp dog auctions, we do not have pictures of the actual event. However, a national humane organization has recently posted an undercover video of auctions much like Thorp. To view it, please click here.

Media reports:

• Leader Telegram: Going once, twice, sold — and safe

• West Bend Daily News: Humane Society buys 14 puppy mill dogs

• Eau Claire Leader-Telegram: Protesters dog auctioneers

• Appleton Post-Crescent: Donor helps rescue dogs headed to 'puppy mills'

• Best Friends, "Call To Arms"