Rescue Highlight

A Tail to Tell “Giving puppy mill survivors a chance to tell their tales”

by SAMANTHA ST.CLAIR /// PHOTOS by SAMANTHA ST.CLAIR

Every dog has a tale to tell, and for puppy mill survivors, it usually involves similar plot points. The story begins with a

young pup who grows up in a small kennel with little human interaction and minimal to no exposure to the outside world. As an adult, they will produce as many litters as possible and contribute to a growing population of unhealthy, unsocialized dogs. After years of enduring substandard or neglectful conditions, the luckiest puppy mill dogs escape to a better life where they can forget the beginning of their story thanks to rescues such as A Tail to Tell, Inc.

A Tail to Tell was founded by Cindy Myers to rescue and rehabilitate dogs from mills and other dire situations. Cindy’s high standards in veterinary care and behavioral nurturing have saved hundreds of dogs over the years. Many of the dogs enter A Tail to Tell with medical needs ranging from skin conditions to cases where surgery is necessary. Older dogs who can no longer reproduce are some of the main intakes, many of whom received no vet care during their life. During their treatment, foster homes love and care for them until they are ready for a forever home. Dogs who are extremely fearful or otherwise unable to be adopted stay on the rescue's property.

A FOSTER’S VIEWPOINT

A Tail to Tell couldn’t operate without the help of foster homes. Lisa Keeley provides an excellent example of how vital foster homes are, and how enriching it is to provide a safe space for a dog awaiting a forever home. Lisa began fostering six years ago and has already helped over 100 dogs on their journey to a new life. “I have always loved dogs, and I wanted to work with them at some capacity,” Lisa explained. “I decided to foster and connected with A Tail to Tell.” Since Lisa started fostering, she has learned a lot about puppy mill dogs and their unique needs. "Many of them don’t know how to play,” she said, “or don’t know what furniture is.” Normal experiences like walking on grass or eating out of bowls can be scary to them. Fostering can be challenging at times, especially when dealing with dogs who have major fears or medical conditions. However, the reward of seeing them discover their personalities and what they love in

life makes it an amazing experience. “Fostering is kind of addicting,” Lisa said. "When you see a dog come into your home in bad shape and later get updates of them being spoiled and loved in their new homes, it makes it very worthwhile. You do get attached, but my goal as a foster is to rehabilitate them and let them go. A Tail to Tell’s fosters have a lot of say in where the dogs will be placed, which makes it much easier. I get updates from a lot of the families who have adopted my foster dogs, which is incredible.”

HELPING PUPPY MILL SURVIVORS

Everyone can participate in ending the suffering of puppy mill dogs by educating themselves and others on how to responsibly add a companion to their home. “Don’t be deceived by nice photographs,” Lisa said. “And don't fall for people showing you a nice setup. Mill owners will stage meetups.” And, avoid feeling bad for that puppy in the window. “It’s a vicious cycle. You may think you are helping a puppy, but you support the continuation of mills,” Lisa explained. “I have seen what years of neglect does to a dog, and I can say it is worth it to be patient and find a dog from a reputable source to prevent mothers in mills from further suffering.”

“I think people should consider adopting over shopping,” Lisa explained. “Rescued dogs make amazing pets and are forever grateful to their families. You can rescue just about any breed of dog. I have fostered pugs, English bulldogs, Labradors, poodles, chihuahuas, and several other breeds.” If you are set on purchasing a dog, get to know your breeder and ask a lot of questions. Ethical breeder will answer any questions you may have and should be an expert in their breed. Look for breeders who have a purpose behind their breeding, and avoid any online marketplaces or sellers who have pups readily available.

“I advocate for looking into rescuing a dog first if you are looking for a family companion,” Lisa said. Fostering is also an option for having a dog in your life. Helping to spread awareness, and slowing the profits of mills is a battle that A Tail to Tell hopes will one day be won as mills continue to be exposed. Do the right thing and always carefully consider the source of your canine companion - it could be a choice that saves a life. atailtotell.com