47 Abandoned poodles

In September, animal control officers walked into a horrific sight in Central Oregon—47 purebred poodles living in terrible conditions in the home of a well-known breeder. She now faces legal consequences that are generally minimally punitive, but the 47 dogs she created and forced to multiply for profit, found themselves in desperate need of medical care and loving homes to help them recover, both physically and emotionally, from their trauma.

We’d like to say that this is an unusual case, but puppy mills are uncovered countless times nationwide, and each time, already over-tasked rescues step in to clean up the mess. Irresponsible breeding and hoarding are sadly an all-too-common national tragedy.

As we often do, Indigo took some of the most desperate of these poodles, one of which was sweet middle-aged Norman.

We’re told he was one of her best breeders, but physically, Norman was a mess, requiring the removal of the majority of his teeth. Like the others, he was emaciated, riddled with parasites and his skin was literally pulling away because his coat was so hopelessly matted. These are before and after pics of Norman. Undoubtedly, countless people waited eagerly and for the “privilege” of purchasing one of his puppies.

We don’t believe breeding made-to-order puppies for people ever justifies the torture of their parents, but if you have your heart set on a specific breed, chances are there are plenty of that breed available in shelters and rescues locally.

Please consider adoption instead!

To learn more about Indigo’s life-saving work, visit us at www.indigorescue.org