To the editor:

A white Christmas means misery for puppy mill dogs.

While we may dream of a white Christmas, for dogs forced to live in puppy mills, snow means many cold nights alone in cramped cages outside. Puppy mills are inhumane, commercial breeding facilities where dogs typically live in deplorable conditions. Consumers who purchase puppies from pet stores or online during the holiday season are likely supporting these cruel puppy mills.

Recent investigations by the Humane Society of the United States demonstrate the need for increased consumer awareness and legislation to regulate this industry. Earlier this month, HSUS researchers found that the online mega-retailer, Purebred Breeders LLC., is actively supporting puppy mills, even while telling unsuspecting customers that the dogs come only from responsible dog breeders. The company owns about 800 puppy-selling websites that sell about 20,000 puppies every year, using deceptive sales tactics.

In November, HSUS released the results of a hidden-camera investigation which showed that more than 100 New York pet stores are obtaining puppies from puppy mills, including some of the worst facilities in the United States.

These investigations demonstrate why lawmakers need to act now to regulate this industry and demonstrate why people should adopt a dog from a shelter or rescue or buy from a responsible breeder this holiday season. When you buy a dog online or from a pet store, you just do not know what you are going to get, and you are likely supporting a cruel puppy mill.