How can you make sure that your next dog won't come from a puppy mill? Avoiding pet stores is a logical start, of course, but it's only part of the solution. You must gather information and conduct a little investigation of your own. Follow these five easy steps from The Humane Society of the United States, and you'll be far more likely to secure a dog who doesn't drain your emotions or your pocketbook. One, in other words, who doesn't come from a puppy mill.

• · Know thyself. The first step on the road to pet ownership is to ask yourself some tough questions: Why do you want an animal? Can you afford one? Are you prepared to take care of the dog every day for his entire life?
• · Find the perfect match. Once you've decided you're ready for a dog, you'll want to choose the right one for you and your lifestyle. Part of that process is deciding whether to go with a purebred or mixed breed.
• · Get the facts. Forewarned is indeed forearmed. Puppy mills, those mass dog-breeding operations which are known to thumb their nose at Animal Welfare Act requirements, routinely supply pet stores. They're also behind many online dealers and breeders who advertise in newspapers and magazines. Read horror stories about buying a puppy from a "professional breeder."
• · Check your list. Those who buy from breeders need to know how to rate breeders. We've developed a checklist to help you identify reputable ones. It's designed specifically for breeders, but the checklist will help you rate anyone who's selling dogs.
• · Visit a shelter. Your safest route when searching for a new dog is to head directly to your local animal shelter. Shelters have dozens of dogs, many of them purebreds, just waiting for homes. Shelter workers typically screen animals for sound health and temperament, and they'll help you find the right pet for your lifestyle. Purebred rescue groups are ideal outlets for your next pooch, too. Adopting a dog from either place is the surest way to strike a blow against puppy mills.