Have you ever wondered if your local pet store buys its puppies from puppy mills? Now you can find out—by taking the Pet Store Challenge!

Puppy mills are breeding facilities that produce purebred puppies in large numbers and, often, in shockingly poor conditions. Many pet stores adamantly deny that the puppies they sell come from puppy mills and say that they only deal with "reputable breeders." But can they prove it? It's time to uncover the truth about your local pet store by going directly to the source—pet store owners and managers—to find out where the puppies sold in your community come from.

Want to help dogs in your area and around the country? Take the Pet Store Challenge—the deadline has been extended to Dec. 15, 2006. It's easy! Here's how:

1. 1. Print out the Pet Store Challenge Survey and read the tips for successfully completing the survey.
2. 2. Visit your local pet store and talk with a staff person (preferably a manager or owner) to complete the survey.
3. 3. Submit the completed Pet Store Challenge Survey before Dec. 15, 2006, by using our online form or by mail to:
   
   The Humane Society of the United States
   Attn: The Pet Store Challenge
   2100 L Street, NW
   Washington, DC 20037

Updated Oct. 11, 2006.