Non-US puppies have higher risk of health problems

To address the increased importation of puppies raised in commercial breeding operations outside of the United States, the Los Angeles County Board of Supervisors unanimously approved Supervisor Michael D. Antonovich’s motion to send a 5-signature letter to the United States Department of Agriculture, urging stronger enforcement of puppies imported into the United States.
[view:node_ad=5]Due to an increased demand for very young animals by the pet buying public and closer regulations of domestic commercial dog breeding operations, international puppy mills are increasingly filling the void for puppies.  However, these puppies also have a higher propensity of being born with underdeveloped immune systems and exposure to life-threatening diseases.

Most of these puppies are imported from Central and South America, Eastern Europe, Russia, and Asia; and subjected to extreme stress during shipment.  The Center for Disease Control estimated that over 7,000 puppies are imported through Los Angeles International Airport each year. 

“Stronger oversight is needed by the United States Department of Agriculture to curtail the importation of immature and sick puppies,” said Supervisor Antonovich.